Re: Split rims

[Darrel <darrelK@domain.elided>]

> I have an Uncle that was "changed" forever by this.  He had owned and
> run his own gas and service station for about thirty years, had seen it
> all, could fix anything.  Had a split rim blow off, and, luckily, only
> deal him a glancing blow.  He was in the hospital for months, in a
> wjheelchair for some time, had to give up his business, and had
> tremendous motor skill problems for as long as I knew of-I am
> unfortunately not really much in touch with that segment of the family
> anymore-probably haven't spoken to or heard from them for over ten
> years-but last I heard he was still only about "half there," and this
> was about eight years after the accident.
> I do not know if he was using any constraint system at all, but he was a
> very well-educated and experienced mechanic, and was not the, "Oh, I can
> do it right without any equipment" kind of guy.  At least, this is my
> general impression, but I was only around 12 or 15 when this happened.
> I just remember he was always watching us like a Hawk and lecturing us
> on safety when we would be at the station.
>
> Michael

Where were you guys 20 years ago when I was changing Split Rims nearly everyday
at my Dad's shop - without a cage? I was careful and never had one explode, but
I'll never touch one again after reading this - not worth it. Besides, I've
forgotten all the tricks I used to know. I do remember certain models of tires
were more dangerous then others because they always seated with a boom. And you
had to stand right over the tire machine so you could press the foot pedal.

Darrel
Colorado Springs