Aluminum Valve Stems & Galvanic Corrosion
Please note Minder Research makes two types of transmitters, the TM-2BRASS and the TM-2ALUM. The basic
kits come with either 4 or 6 of the TM-Brass type transmitters. These will fit ALL Motor Homes (Class A, B or C),
ALL 5
th
wheel trailers and ALL towables.
TIP: you ONLY need the special TM-2ALUM if you are towing a car or light truck which already has a built in Tire
Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
These will usually be 2007 or newer (as mandated).
These valve stems will be dull silver (vs. the shiny silver on your motor home).
The shiny ones are either stainless steel or chrome plated brass and do not require special transmitters.
Don’t bother with the “magnet test.” Most stainless steel is not magnetic.
What you are avoiding here is called “galvanic corrosion.” This happens when dissimilar metals come
into contact for a period of time. Moisture (especially if salty) will cause the two metals to become so
corroded that they cannot be separated.