Quote:
Originally Posted by Jacqueline in BC
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Also, what are some of the reasons for a tire to blow like that? ...
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Based on the available information this tire failure is not surprising, and if we knew the full history of the tires it might have been perfectly predictable.
I have developed the below guidelines in an effort to protect myself from such tire failures, and the damage to the camper that usually results. I won’t claim that I follow all of these guidelines all of the time but ideally this is what I would do.
General rules:
1. Know the date your tires were made (date code on tire). Replace when they reach 5-6 years of age or sooner if not well cared for. Note that the date code on mine was on the inside so it is a PIA to read.
2. Use a TPMS (with metal valve stems) to monitor pressure and temperature when traveling.
3. A few days before each outing, fully inflate tires on the trailer and visually inspect all tires and wheels including the deflated spare. Recheck the trailer’s tires pressure and condition prior to departing. Any excessive and unexplained loss of pressure should be investigated before departure.
4. Keep tires covered when trailer is stored or parked, esp. if for more than a few days.
5. Carry a portable inflator and quality pressure gauge (or two, in order to compare readings).
6. Keep wheels and tires clean and keep them away from solvents, gas fumes, chemicals, etc. as well as running motors.
7. Rotate tires when doing annual bearing and brake inspection and maintenance.
The spare:
1. Store indoors in a dark place and /or in sealed plastic bags with as much air as possible removed.
2. When towing put spare on rear mount with tire cover, or better yet, in tow vehicle still in storage bag. In either event, inflate to 10 PSI and only fully inflate when it is put into service.
3. Rotating with trailer’s tires is optional.
Short term storage:
1. If trailer is stored without raising the tires off the ground leave them at max inflation. Some experts recommend overinflating 25% as long as that does not exceed the rating for the rim and then readjusting to normal inflation before traveling.
2. If trailer is temporarily stored but not raised on stands, then move the trailer a couple of feet every 5-10 weeks so the portion in contact with the ground changes (to prevent get flat spots).
3. Remove heavyweight items and empty water and waste tanks to reduce the load on the tires and axle.
Long term storage:
1. Raise the trailer on jack stands until the tires are off the ground. Deflate tires to 10 PSI and cover. If practical, remove the wheels and store them indoors in a dark place and /or in sealed plastic bags with as much air as possible removed.