not always... if the sidewall is too stiff or if there is just a larger gap then its not going to work very well. at least with the tires i change. although we have found another way that is much safer, just lay the wheel down on a bucket, let the tire hang, put air to it and have several people put a shit ton of tire lube on the top to fill it in and allow the bead to seat. kinda strange but it works when you have extra people to help out.
im a truck and trailer mechanic right now... sadly, but anyways this works perfectly on some big ass 24.5 annoying bridgestone trailer tires! although you should put air to it first. it keeps it from sucking in like that and keep the valve stem out of it. worst that happens is it blows the air line off and you have to repeat. it does seem dangerous but i have never heard of anyone being hurt from this.... just make sure there isn't fix-a-flat in it, lolololol