RV FEATURE
SECONDHAND VANS
When you buy a secondhand van , it ’ s difficult to know whether it has its original tyres or if they ’ ve been replaced . Your best bet is to check each tyre ’ s manufacture date to determine its age .
While the RV may appear to be in tip-top condition , things like UV , a lack of tyre rotation and underinflation , can cause tyre damage . Checking the spare wheel , including whether it ’ s a different brand , can tell a story . Be aware that tyres that haven ’ t been well cared for are likely to let you down without any prior warning . That ’ s why it ’ s so important to check them . Think about replacing them if you have any doubt , particularly if they ’ re more than about six years old .
TYRE PRESSURES
Both durability and safety will be affected when you run incorrect tyre pressures on a loaded RV . Driving with incorrect pressures may affect your RV ’ s handling . It also places an increased loading on the suspension , affects braking efficiency , and increases fuel usage . So it ’ s important to know your RV ’ s weight and the loads on the axles to ascertain what ’ s expected from your tyres .
The chances are , you ’ ll be at the top end of the scale . Tyres have an optimum pressure range that ’ s labelled on the sidewall . Further load-carrying pressure information can be found in the tyre manufacturer ’ s reference guide .
SUMMING UP
Your RV ’ s tyres are what keep you rolling , but they ’ re not something you can simply set and forget . By understanding what to look for when selecting and maintaining your tyres puts you in the driver ’ s seat when the time comes to negotiate a new set for your RV .
WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR RV ’ S TYRES
1 . It goes without saying , but replace your tyres if any are worn down to the legal minimum levels .
2 . If the sidewall has been damaged ( tear or bulge ), it ’ s time to replace them .
3 . Chipping or chunks missing from the tread pattern .
4 . Signs of uneven wear ( this also warrants an investigation as to why this is occurring ).
5 . Don ’ t forget to inspect the condition of valves for marking or slow leaks .
6 . Replace your tyres if they are between five and seven years old ( as a guide ).
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