Valve Stem Designs

[TNM6i]

Long story short, I need to have all four of my valve stems replaced due to being sold dry-rotted stems from the wheel supplier. My Enkei RP03s each came with a valve stem. These stems are designed with a metal stem and have a rubber " o-ring" that seals aaginst the inside of the wheel and one on the outside. There is a metal cap and two nuts on the inside of the wheel that compressed the o-ring against the rim. My question is how reliable is this design? I really like the way they look and they seem to be of good quality. Are the standard chrome-sleeved rubber stems that just "pop" into the hole any better or worse? I'd like to have the ones included with the wheels installed but don't want any problems with leaks.

Here's a pic to show the design:

[rtp]

i really dont think that there is a "better" design for stems.

It seems that the dry rot was the problem, not the design.

[TNM6i]

I know the dry-rotting was the problem. I just wanna make sure the design above is not notorious for leaking or causing any problems. I installed it on the wheel and it seems to seal well, but I just worry about the tire shop not tightening it down good enough and causing a leak. Probably taking the wheels and tires in on Thursday or Friday so we'll see.

[Tire Guy]

The metal stem design is far superior to the rubber stem. The metal stem never really needs to be replaced. Over time, the core might need replacing, but not the stem. The rubber stems have to be replaced each time you replace the tire.

[TNM6i]

Thanks for the info, guys! Taking the wheels in tomorrow to be swapped and balanced.

[TNM6i]

Well, I got the wheels fixed and back on the car. I can't believe I've tolerated the crappy stockers so long! Now I think I should lower the car and get rid of that wheel gap.

[rtp]

i have metal stems, and had them on my old car too. no problems ever.