Tires; Importance Of Air Pressure - Holiday Rambler Imperial 2008 Owner's Manual

DRIVING & SAFETY — 2
Remove the plug from the center of rear
brake chamber on the drive axle.
Use a wrench to tighten the nut,
compressing the internal spring to
release the brake.
Repeat procedure for the other side.
Enabling Brakes:
After towing, or when air pressure is
again available, loosen the nut.
Repeat for the other side.
WARNING:
Failure to securely chock the wheels can
result in the motorhome rolling when
the spring brakes are released. Severe
injury or death can occur.

TIRES

Maintaining proper tire infl ation pressure
is one of the most critical aspects of travel.
Improper pressure will lead to abnormal wear
and/or sudden tire failure.
34
All tire positions must be weighed separately
with the motorhome fully loaded to determine
proper tire infl ation pressure. If one tire position
on the axle is heavier than the other side, infl ate
both sides according to the heaviest side. This
will provide correct air pressure across the
axle while cornering. To obtain the maximum
wear and best service from tires, it is helpful to
understand their components and functions.
Tire Components:
Tread: Provides traction and cornering grip.
Belts: Stabilize and strengthen the tread.
Sidewall: Protects the side of the tire from road
and curb damage.
090369b
Body Ply: Gives the tire strength and fl exibility.
Bead: Assures an air-tight fi t with the wheel.
Inner Liner: Keeps air inside the tire.
2 00 8 I MP E R I A L

Importance of Air Pressure

The most important factor in maximizing
the life of the tires is maintaining proper
infl ation. Driving on any tire that does not have
the correct infl ation 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-infl ated tire will build up excess
heat that may go beyond the design limits of the
rubber and radial cords and could result in sudden
failure. An under-infl ated tire will also cause poor
motorhome handling, rapid and/or irregular tire
wear and an increase in rolling resistance that
results in decreased fuel economy.
An over-infl ated tire will reduce the tire's
footprint/contact patch with the road, thus
reducing traction, braking capacity and handling
of the motorhome. Over-infl ation of a tire for
the load will result in a harsh ride, uneven tire
wear and is susceptible to impact damage.
Maintaining correct tire infl ation 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.
090438
A damaged sidewall can burst upon
inflation resulting in serious damage,
injury or death. Aged tires are also
susceptible to sidewall damage.