I just got some steel rims new. How do I put the valve stems in? I mean is there a trick? Do you lube them up with soap or something and then hammer them in or is there a tool?

There is a tool:

http://www.priertiresupply.com/ProductImages/instant/43-162%20TN.jpg

It threads down onto the valve steem and then you pull it through by leveraging on the wheel. You may be able to do it with some pliers. Are you putting the tires on yourself as well?

-Drew

I got chrome ones with my rims & couldn't get them in. I tried everything except that tool. The tire place did it in 30 sec's with that tool.

What I do is use on of these valve stem tools to set the valve stem. Essentially, pull the valve stem from the inside of the rim as far as you can get it then thread the valve stem tool onto the valve stem and then grab it with a pair of pliers or channel-locks. I've done it to all my valve stems.

http://www.wakularacing.com/VALVE%20STEM%20TOOL.jpg

Not installing the tires. I just wanted to see then in the wheels :)
Guess I will have to wait for tires. Im looking for a complete set of used 33s and I am finding 35s all day long. If only i had more lift. Sigh.

Lube the valve stem with some silicon spray lube or a drop of vegetable oil. Then gently pull on it with pliers if you don't have a tool; it will pop right in.

Yeah I lube up the valve steems even when I use the tool - that helps I'm sure, but just be careful when using pliers - using your weight like that and then it slipping isn't a great thing.

-Drew