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On the Road Safety
CHANGING TIRES
TIRE CARE
CHECK AIR
PRESSURE
42
your particular motorhome and make sure that you are aware of it when driving
under bridges or underpasses.
When parking parallel to a curb, be sure to allow for poles or obstructions as the
front and rear portions of the motorhome will swing wider than an automobile.
Remember that your motorhome is larger than your automobile and will require
more space. Be careful your unit does not occupy road space or block driveways
while parking. When parking on an incline, turn the front wheels into the curb in
the direction of the roll to aid the parking brake. Always set the parking brake when
parking.
CAUTION
If absolutely necessary, change the tire on a level and firm surface. If you are on
the roadside, activate the vehicle's hazard warning flashers. Apply the parking
brake. Set up flares and/or warning lights. See the chassis manufacturer's owner's
manual for specific jacking and tire removal, and replacement instructions, which
pertain to your unit. Lug nuts vary from chassis to chassis, and the GVW (Gross
Vehicle Weight) of your motorhome. (See Chassis Owner's Manual for specific
instructions on tightening lug nuts). After operating 50-100 miles, retighten to the
same specification. If you don't have proper equipment, stop at the nearest service
facility and have the torque of the lug nuts checked.
The most important factor in maximizing the life of your tires is maintaining proper
inflation pressure. An under inflated tire will build up excessive heat that may go
beyond the prescribed limits of endurance of the rubber and the radial cords. Over
inflation will reduce the tire's footprint on the road, reducing the traction, braking
capacity, and handling of your vehicle. An over inflated tire will also cause a harsh
ride and uneven tire wear.
To determine the correct air pressure for your tires, load your motorhome as
you would normally for travel, including water and fuel. Determine the correct air
pressure for the weight on each axle and adjust the pressure according to the
Federal Certification Label when the tires are cool or have not been driven for more
than one mile. Never reduce the air pressure in a hot tire.
CAUTION
Now that you have found what the correct air pressure per axle needs to be for your
motorhome when loaded, you need to know when to check your air pressure. You
Changing a tire on a motorhome is more difficult
than an ordinary automobile. Motorhome tires are
larger and heavier than ordinary tires. Whenever
possible, call for roadside assistance to help you in
changing your tires. This task should not be done
alone due to the weight of the unit. Motorhomes are
extrememly heavy. Changing a flat tire is best left to
a professional mechanic with the proper tools.
Never place the jack under a bumper or under the edge
of the sidewall. Always place the jack as specified
by the chassis owner's manual. Never use the rear
differential as a jacking point. Use the jack only for
changing tires. NEVER get underneath the vehicle
when using the jack; never start or run the engine
while the vehicle is on the jack.
Never let air out of a hot tire.
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