I bought some metal valve dust caps to match the bodywork and I can't undo one of them - anyone have any tips to release it without using two pairs of pliers and damaging the rubber valve?

Yes, I'm a muppet

 

Try heating with hair dryer or hot water to see if one part expands, allowing you to unscrew.

 

Thanks - I'll try the hot water - don't have a 60 foot extention lead

 

Metal ones are the reason tire shops remove and chuck them in the garbage and replace with plastic. The tend to corrode on the stem. I have green to match the growler tire inserts, but am changing to red growlers soon and will be looking for red caps.

 

Maybe these, lmao!!

 

Have t=you tried turning them with pliers or an open end wrench a little? Maybe just that extra torque you can't get with your fingers would be enough. Try spraying some penetrating oil in there carefully and let it sit a bit.

How did you put them on in the first place? I have had metal caps in the past and never had an issue ever.

 

I probably either over tightened one of them or there was some crap on the thread and it somehow sealed it

Good suggestions guys

 

if you get off, before reapplying, apply some Vaseline on the thread.

 

Mine came with a small wrench, but a dab of LITHIUM based lube will keep them removable.


Don't use a petroleum based lube; it will attack the rubber seal!

 

Finally!!

After 3 or 4 applications of penetrating oil over a few days I put a rag around the valve to hold it tighter and used a socket wrench on the dust cap

The thread on the valve was very white and powdery so who knows what was on there