The bead balancing system uses a number of ceramic beads. However, instead of attaching to the wheel, they are put into the inside of the tire. These beads then are let to freely move about the tire. Amazingly, once they are run at a speed exceeding about 20 MPH, they produce a perfectly balanced wheel. Not only do they work at the outset, but they will adjust as the tire wears to keep it in balance.
So, what exactly are these beads and how do they work? They are made of a very hard ceramic composition, much harder than stainless steel or even glass. A specific quantity, based on the tire’s size, is poured into the tire casing during installation. While they freely roll about the tire, they migrate by inertia to the needed location as soon as the wheel is turning fast enough. Amazingly, the wheel runs smooth and will do so for the life of the tire.
The ceramic bead system apparently can be reused once. That is, they can be transferred to the second new set of tires after which the beads would need to be replaced.
I tried this method of balancing my 315 X 22.5 tires about six years ago. The brand I used was Dyna Bead. At first I was skeptical. I could not imagine these beads actually working. But, with little choice as the dealer had no other balancing equipment, I tried them. I was pleasantly surprised to find a smooth ride with absolutely no vibration.
Because of the availability, simplicity, and most of all the performance of the Dyna Bead balancing solution, I would go with this method solely in the future.
Peter Mercer – With a Great Balancing Act