Read more about which tires benefit from studs here.
New spikes are often installed with circlip pliers and a screwdriver. We tested this method, and it is possible for a curious reader to try it themselves.
Yet most readers will find the process tiring by the third hole. Studded tires make sense only when there are 15 to 20 studs per wheel, which means about a hundred insertions for four wheels under typical usage. That adds up quickly in real life.
How to mechanize labor?
On the market, devices called doshipunami appear. They promise to mechanize the process using a screwdriver or drill. A lead screw pushes a nail between three or four legs, widening the hole in the rubber. Then a second nail is inserted, and the tool is released.
Seasonal availability is limited, but seven samples were collected and tested thoroughly by the team.
Three designs
All doshipunas fall into groups based on how the legs push against the hole edges to enter the rubber. Some use steel wire, thin spring plates, or solid fangs as legs.
The reviewer particularly favored devices with thin lamellar legs. They deform the hole edges the least while using four legs. Other devices tend to have three legs. A round stud base fits more easily into a square rubber groove than into a triangular one.
All doshipun spindles can be clamped in the chuck of even a small screwdriver, since they measure up to 10 mm. A larger thread diameter on the spindle means longer device life.
Lubrication of the threads is advised, preferably with extreme pressure grease, similar to what is used in CV joints.
Members
ATRK106 Airline. Spike tool
| estimated price 2800 ₽ Good design with four legs that loosen the hole walls for the nail. The price is high compared to similar devices. You may still consider its use. |
DOUBLE U. Winter tire repair tools
| estimated price 1700 ₽ The pigtails are inserted into the holes and secured in a conventional nut by welding. The spindle has a suitable diameter and pushes the spike well into the hole. Usable in practice. |
REM SHIP. Doshipun version 5.0
| estimated price 3300 ₽ Much of the device is plastic. It helps insert a spike. The clamping elements are rubber rings. The spindle diameter is small and does not boost reliability. With regular thread lubrication, it can be used. |
Name. Screwdriver stutter
| estimated price 2400 ₽ A high price for a simple product based on a classic GOST note. It can plant a spike, but offers no advantage over cheaper options. Not recommended. |
vaco. Doshipun
| estimated price 1800 ₽ The spindle has a fixed diameter and an anti-corrosion coating. High tensile steel wire tendrils are welded into a standard nut. Spikes insert well and can be recommended. |
SamShip. Doshipun reinforced factory quality
| estimated price 1900 ₽ The spindle thread is sturdy and durable. The design looks solid, but in the tested copy the antenna lengths varied slightly, which did not help with precise spike installation. The concept is solid, but performance fell short. |
Doshipun MINI. Fastener for installing repair pins
| estimated price 1500 ₽ Four spring steel legs push firmly against the hole walls to ease nail insertion. A well-balanced design and low price make it a clear test winner. |
Expert conclusions Behind the wheel
Five of the seven devices were approved in practice. The Doshipun MINI emerged as the best option thanks to its reasonable price and ease of use.
For a practical vehicle owner, these tools are worth considering. However, skill is required to operate any device. For those who rarely pick up a tool, visiting a workshop or buying new studded tires may be a better choice.
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