RV Tire Care
Fri Jun 11, 2010
Author: Joe McNamara
TIRES AREN'T PRETTY!
But they sure are important.
Of all the components on our RV's tires are usually the most taken for granted. They are on there, they are black, and they have some air in them, but there is more we should know. Here is some information so maybe you can have a safe, long lasting relationship with them.
What is the tire pressure in them? Every tire has a recommended inflation rating printed on them. According to the tire manufacturer, that is the inflation that will provide the best operation at the listed weight rating. This will prevent abnormal or premature tire wear, prevent tire overheating, and give you the best fuel mileage. You should check you air pressure before that trip, when putting your RV into storage, and every 1000 miles of use.
When should you replace them? A tire should be replaced any time it becomes damaged either by a puncture, curb damage, or some other type of trauma. If there are areas of dry rot or cracking either in the sidewall or in the tread pattern, or any visible bubbles or blistered areas. Most tire manufacturers recommend replacing tires after 5 years of use. This is due to the materials and composites used in tire manufacturing breaking down with time. The manufacture date will be stamped into the sidewall of your tire (check with your manufacturer on your specific tire). Most RV tires are replaced for the above mentioned reasons and not due to tread wear.
What tires should I install on my unit? You should make sure the tire is the correct size, type, and weight rating. This information can be found on the nomenclature plate of the unit with the VIN information. The engineers who designed your unit have provided that information for you and matching this information will give you the best drivability and handling characteristics possible for your RV.
So remember, your tires should be there, should be black, and should have some air. But hopefully you can get to know them so they will care about you and your family's wellbeing. If you ignore them they may just leave you flat.
Additional Information: http://www.grwrv.com/pages/rveducationandtraining.htm
