Rear Tire Change: homemade vs Mfg cycle lift?

[David (N. Alabama)]

Too bad your 2 1/2 hours away, Grumpy. I have an engine puller and a bike jack. We could've went right to work on it. I still have to change my rear tire cause there is a hole in it. Looks like it may have been plugged where it's leaking. Do you change the tire yourself or take it to the cycle shop?
Can you put a tube in a bike tire or is that not a good idea? I have fairly good tread.

For a small puncture wound, I have broken the seal and applied a patch to the inside of the tire. You do have to rebalance of course.

[Scott-(Altoona, PA)]

Bob,
I worked at a service station in the late 70's/early 80's and we switched from regular round plugs to the "mushroom" type (sort of looks like an umbrella too). They work great and last a long time. If applied correctly you should be able to forget that it was ever installed and ride with full confidence!
In today's world $10 for a trust worthy tire repair isn't too awful bad either.