Robotic apparatus and method for mounting a valve stem on a wheel rim

The method involves inserting valve stem (28) through aperture (26) of rim (12) by locating aperture of rim relative to a gauging station (14). The valve stem is moved relative to the rim, along a programmable path and aligned axes, the aperture is aligned co-axially with the longitudinal axis of valve stem, using a robotic manipulator (20). An independent claim is also included for valve stem assembling apparatus.