New Owner

[Hudsoner]

Today I became the new owner of a 2001 29D Hurricane, and I have already a question.

The unit has almost brand new tires on, would they last longer (than the six years that are always quoted in the forum) if I cover them with those canvas covers each time the unit is parked?

[randco]

Covering them may help, using a product call 303 on them may help. I think the best way to keep the tire healthy is to drive on it. Yes, it will impact tread wear but should help with the natural lubrication of the tire.I just replaced 6 Michelin 275/80-22.5's that had almost new tread that showed even wear. The problem was the sidewall cracking and they were 7 years old. Put Toyo M147's on all wheels. Already notice a difference in the ride.

[TXiceman]

UV is only part of the problem on tires. The ozone in the air also degrades the rubber. Covering the outside of the tire does not keep the ozone from the back side.

Part of the operating cost and keeping an RV safely on the road is replacing tires, brakes and other normal maintenance items. Trying to push beyond recommended maintenance limits can be costly in both monetary and safety problems. Trying to push the tires an extra year and chancing a blow out can be very costly.

Good luck on the road.

Ken

[Hudsoner]

Quote:

Originally Posted by TXiceman UV is only part of the problem on tires. The ozone in the air also degrades the rubber. Covering the outside of the tire does not keep the ozone from the back side. Ken

Thanks for reminding me about ozone. I forgot about that totally. I worked a lot with ozone and material stability (ozone sterilization testing). There are, of course sections in the country that have higher or lower ozone levels. I wonder whether a motorhome stationed in a lower ozone level area (like the upper mid west) would have longer lasting tires than one form, i.e California or New Mexico, etc.

It would also possible for the manufacturers to add ozone resistant substances to their tires. I wonder, if that happens?