TPMS-Flow Through vs Non Flow Through Transmitters

[sbleiweiss]

The advantage of flow through caps is obvious. A disadvantage is that they cost more. Are there any other disadvantages to them?

[Camp CA]

Same question came up on this thread with some good arguments for non-flow through: https://www.irv2.com/forums/f258/tpm...ot-320722.html. I installed non-flow through on truck, trailer and motorhome because the flow through were longer and maybe heavier. The non-flow through take no more effort/time to remove and re-install then a normal tire stem cap.

[twojayhawks]

I chose the non-flow thru sensors and I remove the outer security shell to make them as small/light as possible. I wouldn't think one has to adjust air very often. In my case I got new tires two years ago & haven't touched them since.

[PushedAround]

Originally Posted by sbleiweiss

The advantage of flow through caps is obvious. A disadvantage is that they cost more. Are there any other disadvantages to them?

If you are using the TST sensors, I found the flow through ones for just a few dollars more per unit than the screw-on ones. Also, it is not the same because once you screw them on and lock them, they stay sealed. With the screw-ons, you are constantly resealing them each time. Way more chances for a leak.

[Lt Dan]

The flow through sensors are slightly heavier which will put more stress on the valve stem. I also took the "theft proof" cap off and use the non flow through just like caps. There's no more chance of a leak that way than using regular valve stem caps on the flow through type.

[NXR]

If you're carrying the proper pressure in your tires with a margin for the expected temperature changes you should not need to add air more than once a year. I've gone eighteen months myself and only removed the cap sensors to replace the batteries at the same time.

Ray

[PS89]

I chose the flow-through style for my '18 F53 18K chassis. Because they are longer, I also had to replace the (metal) valves stems with a 30 degree bend version in order for the sensor to clear the wheel simulator.

Something to be aware of...

[PDR John]

Flow through caps filled slower when you need to air up. Otherwise I was happy with their convenience.

[US1]

I have a bag of the flow thrus that I replaced with the nons. Smaller, lighter and just look better.

[TruckinRound]

Depends on how far the valve stems protrude past the wheel liners, and if the jam nuts for the non-flow through sensors are easily accessible.

[pasdad1]

Another fan of the non-flow thru type. Some brands call them “anti-theft”. I remove the bulky outer plastic ring which gives it the “anti theft” property, and just screw on the sensor with my fingers. You don’t need the special tool to remove/install them that way. The sensors are tiny, look way better, less weight to throw off balance, and theft has never been a problem. Like others have mentioned, only need to add air maybe once per year.

[Dutch Star Don]

Originally Posted by NXR

If you're carrying the proper pressure in your tires with a margin for the expected temperature changes you should not need to add air more than once a year. I've gone eighteen months myself and only removed the cap sensors to replace the batteries at the same time.

Ray

X2....there is no need for flow through. You bought a TPMS to monitor your tires, why would you need to mess with them. They don't lose air unless you have a leak. Removing the non flow thru once a year is not a big deal. The flow through can also be an issue on the front rim....they stick out too far.

[Dodge Guy]

I have the TST cap sensors. No issues. I’ve installed them and removed them before and after every trip. Only 1 set of batteries in 5 years. I check my tires at the beginning of the season and then again in the middle.
It’s a non issue. I like the cap sensors because they are lighter and smaller.

[sbleiweiss]

Thanks guys. This forum is great.