Importance Of Air Pressure; Tire Pressure Inflation Guideline - Monaco Cayman 2005 Owner's Manual

Importance of Air Pressure

The most important factor in maximizing the life of the tires is maintaining proper inflation. Driving
on any tire that does not have the correct inflation pressure for the load of the motorhome is dangerous
and may cause premature wear, tire damage and/or loss of control of the motorhome.
An under-inflated tire will build up excessive heat that may go beyond the design limits of the rub-
ber and radial cords and could result in sudden failure. An under-inflated tire will also cause poor
motorhome handling, rapid and/or irregular tire wear and an increase in rolling resistance that
results in a decreased fuel economy.
An over-inflated tire will reduce the tire's footprint/contact patch with the road, thus reducing trac-
tion, braking capacity and handling of the motorhome. Over-inflation of a tire for the load will result in
a harsh ride, uneven tire wear and is susceptible to impact damage.
Maintaining correct tire inflation pressure for each loaded wheel position on the motorhome is of
the utmost importance and must be a part of regular motorhome maintenance.
WARNING:
Driving on a tire that is under-inflated can exceed the design limits of the tire and may
damage the sidewall. A damaged sidewall can burst upon inflation resulting in serious
damage, injury or death. Aged tires are also susceptible to sidewall damage.

Tire Pressure Inflation Guideline

Federal law requires that the specifications for the tire's maximum load rating be molded into the
sidewall of the tire. The amount of air pressure to use is dependent on the weight of the motorhome
when fully loaded. The tire chart indicates the weights that can be properly supported by varying air
pressures. Decreasing air pressure decreases load carrying capacity.
Always comply with the tire manufacturer's recommended pressure inflation guideline. The actual
weight of the motorhome can vary significantly depending on how it is loaded. For optimum tire wear,
ride and handling always comply with the manufacturer guideline. A tire inflation chart listing proper
inflation pressure for different loads can be found in this section.
The tires of the motorhome are inflated to pressure(s) appropriate for the actual weight on each axle
in the unloaded, shipped condition. When the motorhome is loaded, check and adjust the inflation pres-
sure on each tire as needed.
Always inflate tires to the pressure indicated in the tire chart for the load carried by the tire. DO
NOT OVERINFLATE OR UNDERINFLATE THE TIRES.
The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) of the axles listed on the federal certification label
attached to the motorhome is the maximum allowable loaded weight on an axle.
When the actual loaded weight of the motorhome and the weight on each axle is unknown, follow
the recommended tire inflation pressure(s) listed on the federal certification label. When loading a
motorhome never exceed the motorhome's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or the GAWR for
each axle.
Contact the tire manufacturer for further information concerning proper tire pressure inflation and
other tire issues.
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Section 2 --- Driving & Safety
Cayman 2005