Old RV tires are an accident just waiting to happen!
Here’s why…
RV Tire Problem #1: Sun Damage
RV tires that sit in storage for long periods become weak — especially if they’ve been exposed to the sun much of that time. Long periods of storage under direct sunlight can lead to damage that you can’t even see.
Even though they may look fine, at highway speeds your RV tires can disintegrate and cause an accident. That’s right, your trip could be ruined when a seemingly good RV tire explodes without warning.
So, if your RV spends much of its time in storage or parked for long periods of time, always check the tires closely each time before you head out on the road. Here’s what to look for.
By storing your RV indoors, or at least protecting the tires and other sun-sensitive surfaces with covers, you can prolong the life and luster of your RV. This not only makes your RV safer, but helps to retain more of its original value as well.
Here are some tips from Goodyear regarding RV tires:
Ideally, a vehicle in storage should be placed on blocks to remove all weight from the tires. If the vehicle cannot be put on blocks, follow these steps for tire protection:
- Completely unload the vehicle so that minimum weight will be placed on the tires
- Inflate tires to recommended operating pressure plus 25%. Ensure that the rim manufacturer’s inflation capacity is not exceeded
- Be sure the storage surface is firm, clean, well drained and reasonably level
- Avoid moving the vehicle during extremely cold weather
- Move the vehicle at least every three months to prevent ozone cracking in the tire bulge area, as well as "flat-spotting" from the prolonged strain of sidewall and tread deflection
- Adjust inflation before putting the vehicle back into service
RV Tire Problem #2: Flat Spotting
Another RV tire problem associated with longterm storage is flat spotting.
Wonder what that rumbling noise is as you head out? Your tires have become less than round from sitting in one spot for too long.
To avoid this, keep your RV tires properly inflated — even when in storage.
Your best bet is to take your RV for a ride every month to keep the tires in good shape.
I’ve been involved in RVing for over 50 years — including camping, building, repairing, and even selling RVs and motorhomes. I’ve owned, used, and repaired almost every class and style of RV ever made. I do all of my own repair work. My other interests include cooking, living with an aging dog, and dealing with diabetic issues. If you can combine a grease monkey with a computer geek, throw in a touch of information nut and organization freak, combined with a little bit of storyteller… you’ve got a good idea of who I am. To date, I’ve shared my RV knowledge in over 300 articles here at The Fun Times Guide! Many of them have over 25K shares.
