Howdy, Ramblers! If you’re an avid RV owner tire maintenance aficionado like we are, you know good times roll! When you use a travel trailer, maintaining new tires and replacing worn trailer tires are crucial to safe journeys on the road. In this post, we’re going to share some information we’ve gathered over the years to help you keep your trailer tires in tip-top shape. Then you will know when to change the tires on your RV.
WHERE DO I BEGIN?
First things first, let’s talk about RV tire maintenance. Regular visual inspection is a must-do to ensure that your tires are in good condition. The best way to extend functionality is to check for proper tire pressure at least once a month, and always before hitting the road. Underinflated camper tires can and will cause excessive wear and tear, decrease fuel efficiency, and even lead to blowouts. Overinflated tires can also cause uneven wear and decreased handling, so be sure to keep your tires at the manufacturer-recommended inflation pressures.
WHAT DO I DO NEXT?
It’s a good idea to have a tire rotation at a tire dealer or tire shop when you get oil changes in your tow vehicle. The techs will look for signs of damage and lessen the chance of you having tire blowouts. Ask the technician to look inspect your spare tires and make sure the best tire is in use.
NOW WHAT?
You should also regularly inspect the tread depth of your tires. The minimum legal tread depth is 2/32 of an inch, but most experts recommend replacing your tires when the tread depth reaches 4/32 of an inch. Uneven wear patterns may indicate alignment issues or other problems with your RV. Be sure to keep an eye out for that as well. Peace of mind correlates with plenty of tread!
KEEP THEM GOOD TIMES GOING
It’s also important to keep your RV tires clean and protected from the elements. Use a mild soap and water to clean the tires. Avoid using any harsh chemicals that could damage the rubber. Applying a tire protectant or UV-resistant spray can also help prolong the life of your tires. Avoid direct sunlight when prudent, or use RV tire covers to keep the condition of your tires at their best.
TIME TO MAKE A CHANGE
Let’s talk about tire replacement. Don’t postpone this until you have a flat tire or dry rot on the tire’s sidewall. RV tires typically have a lifespan of around 5-7 years, regardless of how much tread is left on the tire. This is because the rubber can dry out and crack over time, especially if your RV is stored outside in the sun.
LET’S DATE
Find the date code to find the date of manufacture, near the rim. If your RV tires are approaching this age range, or if you notice any signs of cracking, bulging, or other damage, it’s time to replace them. Roadside assistance is great, but the best time to solve problems is before they happen, not on the side of the road waiting on a portable service technician.
THE ONE TRUE
When selecting new RV tires, make sure to choose ones that are appropriate for the weight of your RV. You may also want to consider investing in the types of tires with features. Common features are reinforced sidewalls or improved traction for added safety and durability.
New tires can help with a quiet ride and have fuel economy benefits. Also, make sure the load capacity matches your needs. We usually personally recommend purchasing a road hazard policy from the tire manufacturer.
Replacing RV tires can be a costly expense, but it’s not one you want to skimp on. Your tires are your only point of contact with the road. It’s important to make sure they’re in good condition to prevent accidents and ensure a smooth ride on the open road. Plus, properly maintained and replaced tires can even help improve your RV’s fuel efficiency, saving you money in the long run.
KEEP THIS IN MIND…
Remember, proper tire maintenance and replacement are essential for any RV owner’s tire maintenance protocol. By following these tips and keeping a close eye on your tires, you can avoid a dangerous situation. Have an enjoyable journey on the road. Happy travels, y’all!
Thank You For Reading About RV Tire Maintenance
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