Table of Contents
Advertisement
Tire Inspection and Storage
Before taking your trailer on a trip or when removing
it from an extended storage period, make it a practice
to inspect the overall condition of your tires. Check for
any type of condition or damage that might result in
failure. A thorough check should include both inside
and outside sidewalls, tread area and the condition
of hardware such as valve stems, valve caps, and
wheels. The tread should be checked for any unusual
wear, cracking, penetrations and/or cuts. An uneven
wear pattern can indicate misalignment or worn
suspension parts.
Since many RVs are used seasonally and sometimes
stored for extended times, it is possible that tires will
take many years to wear out. Tires, as any rubber
product, will age over time. If tires show cracking
in the sidewall or tread surfaces that are more than
2/32 in. deep, they should be replaced before your
next trip or vacation. Store your RV in a cool dry area
away from major heat sources and extreme cold.
An enclosed storage area is best with no exposure
to electromagnetic sources such as generators or
transformers. If you must keep your trailer outside,
cover your tires from direct sunlight. Take your trailer
to your tire dealer for service to check or correct any of
these conditions.
Tire and Wheel Replacement
It is possible to replace your tires with a different size,
in some instances, to increase your load capacity with
a different inflation pressure. If there is a reason to
replace your tires with a different size, make sure the
following checks are made before the purchase:
• Does the replacement tire have the load capacity that
is needed for my trailer and will it fit properly inside
the wheel well?
• Will the overall diameter difference affect the braking
system?
• Is the increase in air pressure compatible with the
maximum rated pressure stamped on the rim?
Most trailers are towed at or near maximum loads
during hot weather and then left idle for months. In
normal use, oils in the tire come to the surface during
flexing and protect the rubber from ultraviolet light. But
when the trailer tires sit idle too long, natural aging may
cause the rubber to crack prematurely, especially in the
sidewall area. Trailer tires over five years old should
be inspected by a tire expert for cracking and replaced
even if it has no apparent tread wear.
2023 REI Special Edition
Choosing a Tire
Every tire sold in the United States has a tire rating
stamped on the sidewall that shows a tire's maximum
load at a defined pressure. Use the example above
to help locate the max load rating in pounds (lbs) and
tire pressure in pounds per square inch (psi) on your
original equipment tires. Choose a tire with equal load
ratings. For tire size, inflation and load specifications,
see Specifications on page 4-3
Max Load Single vs. Max Load Dual
Max Load Single refers to the tire rating for applications
with only one wheel on each end of a single axle. Max
Load Dual refers to the tire rating for dually wheels,
where there are two wheels on each end of an axle for
a total of 4 wheels on a single axle.
Don't confuse the terms Single and Dual with Tandem.
A tandem axle refers to trailers with two axles, one
behind the other.
For Airstream Travel Trailers, refer to the Max Load
Single rating�
Do not mismatch wheels and tires.
Axle systems are installed with hubs and drums
that are compatible with many wheels used in the
recreational vehicle industry that have matching
bolt patterns. If the original manufacturer-installed
equipment is in need of replacement, the wheel
manufacturer should be contacted for proof of
compatibility prior to replacement and use.
Customers replacing original equipment that has
not been tested for compatibility must ensure the
replacements are compatible to the hub and drum
assembly installed. Such elements of compatibility
include, but are not limited to:
• Diameter of the hub-mounting surface.
• Stud length and diameter.
Maintenance
WARNING
8-7
Advertisement
Chapters
Table of Contents
