How can I tell if my valve stems in tire are aluminum?

[patallee]

I want to get Tire Minder sensors. How can I tell if I need the aluminum ones or other. I have a 2016 Anthem.

[jeffnjay]

Put a small magnet against them. If they're aluminium or brass it won't stick. Steel will attract the magnet.

[Twilightzone]

>"How can I tell if I need the aluminum ones or other. I have a 2016 Anthem."

Unscrew the caps. If the threads on the stems are brass... you've got brass.

[voltdoc]

Valve stems on the coach are most likely stainless steel so go with the brass.

The toad however could be aluminum. I assume the issue you are trying to avoid is mixing brass and aluminum which will cause galvanic corrosion due to the dissimilar metals. I learned this the hard way on my Honda which has aluminum stems. My TPMS sensors have brass threads and on two wheels it siezed to the stems. Had to destroy the sensors to get them off but while the stem threads were damaged they were still useable.

TST sent me new sensors at no charge and recommended dielectric grease or anti sieze to mitigate the issue. 5 years later I can tell you that it works, no siezing. Only a tiny amount of the grease is needed and don't get it in the sensor.

So maybe go with the brass for the toad also as it is more durable and pick up a small tube of dielectric grease.

[RubiconTrail]

What voltdoc said. The stems on your Anthem are stainless.

[Fattman-Litlboy]

I have a 2015 Anthem with stainless, and also use Tire Minder.

[dansnavely]

Originally Posted by patallee

I want to get Tire Minder sensors. How can I tell if I need the aluminum ones or other. I have a 2016 Anthem.

On my Anthem 2016, there are brass on the inside duals, steel on the others. I suggest getting Alligator dual seal caps put on all valves, which let you check the air without removing the cap. A standard straight dual chuck works good with these. Save your money, takes no time to check with these caps.