The TR413 and TR414 are two of the most common tyre valves in the world, and buyers often assume they are interchangeable. They are not. Both fit the same rim hole, but they differ in stem length, and fitting the wrong one causes problems ranging from a hard-to-reach valve to a leak against a hubcap. Here is the practical difference, and how the whole TR412-TR415 family fits together.
The TR412-TR415 family at a glance
| Model | Ref. No. | Rim hole | Effective length | Core | Cap |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TR412 | V2.03.6 | 11.5 mm / .453" | 22 mm / 0.88" | 9002# | VC8 |
| TR413 | V2.03.1 | 11.5 mm / .453" | 32 mm / 1.25" | 9002# | VC8 |
| TR414 | V2.03.2 | 11.5 mm / .453" | 38 mm / 1.50" | 9002# | VC8 |
| TR415 | V2.03.3 | 15.8 mm / 0.625" | 32 mm / 1.25" | 9002# | VC8 |
Read the table carefully: the rim hole column is the hard constraint. TR412, TR413 and TR414 all use the standard 11.5 mm hole, so they are physically interchangeable at the rim - the only real difference is how far the stem sticks out. The TR415 is different: it uses a larger 15.8 mm hole.
TR413 vs TR414: the length question
The TR413 is 32 mm and the TR414 is 38 mm - a 6 mm difference that matters more than it sounds. Stem length is chosen so that the valve sits correctly for the wheel and for whatever is around it:
- Steel wheels with no trim - a shorter TR412 or TR413 keeps the valve neat and out of the way.
- Alloy wheels and deeper wheel designs - a longer TR414 gives better access for the inflation chuck.
- Wheels with hubcaps or covers - the correct length keeps the valve reachable through the cover opening.
Fitting a stem that is too short can make inflation awkward and cause the chuck to scratch the rim. Fitting one that is too long can let the valve foul a hubcap or protrude where it can be knocked. That is why a distributor should stock all three lengths rather than substituting one for another.
When the hole size changes: TR415
The TR415 exists because some wheels use a 0.625" (15.8 mm) valve hole instead of the standard 0.453". A TR413 or TR414 will not seal a 15.8 mm hole, so the TR415 is the correct part for those fitments. Always confirm the rim hole before specifying a valve.
High-pressure variant: the TR414C
For light commercial and trailer applications where standard passenger valves are marginal, the TR414C is a high-pressure version of the TR414 rated to 65 PSI. It shares the same 11.5 mm hole and 38 mm length but is built to hold higher pressures safely - see the passenger car and light truck valve range.
How to specify the right valve
- Measure the rim hole. 11.5 mm for TR412/413/414, 15.8 mm for TR415.
- Choose the length. Match the stem length to the wheel and trim - do not substitute lengths.
- Confirm the pressure rating. Use a TR414C or a metal valve where pressures exceed the standard passenger rating.
- Specify the core and cap. Standardise on 9002# cores and VC8 caps, and stock them as consumables.
- Check TPMS fitment. Where a sensor is fitted, use a TPMS valve stem instead - see the TPMS valve stem range.
Buying note for distributors
Because TR412, TR413 and TR414 are so similar, the easiest way to lose a customer is to ship the wrong length. Stock the three lengths in depth, sell cores and caps separately, and keep a smaller quantity of TR415 for the larger-hole fitments. For the full reference see our tyre valve types guide or browse the tyre valves range.
- ETRTO rim hole and valve fitment reference values
- Dimensional specifications and pressure ratings: Century Auto Parts published product data