Community Forums

mpvukovich · 07-12-2016, 11:22 AM

Replacing tires and adding a tpms system (don't currently have). Should I go with an internal system since tires will already be off? Any input appreciated.

Rorytug · 07-12-2016, 11:49 AM

Yes! It can be pricy but much more reliable I cant get it done in my area but a dear friend did it in the PNW at Les Schwaab. I have had the externals
and found it seriously lacking.

dayle1 · 07-12-2016, 12:30 PM

I have TST internal sensors on my trailer tires, I have had them for 4 yrs now. Battery life was supposed to be around 7 yrs, but I've had several of them fail early. First was replaced under warranty, second one cost me $25. Discount Tire did the initial install when I purchased new tires and so far they have not charged me when the sensors stopped working. Just take the trailer in, they dismount the tire, remove the bad sensor and reverse the process. I did not purchase the tpms system thru Discount Tire, purchased direct from TST.

I still run external sensors on the truck rear tires so I can compare the differences. First, the temperature readings are much more accurate with internal sensors. The external sensors are much more affected by sun and wind. Since the internal sensors are more accurate, besides revealing tire temp. they are more likely to detect overheating caused by dry bearings or dragging brake shoes. Anyway, I think they are worth the extra effort.

SeniorRover · 07-12-2016, 01:36 PM

Is there any way to hook up your factory installed TPMS on the toad to a monitor in the coach?

vsheetz · 07-12-2016, 04:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SeniorRover

Is there any way to hook up your factory installed TPMS on the toad to a monitor in the coach?

This has been asked several times, not doable afaik.

jelag · 07-12-2016, 05:29 PM

so I just worked on a Govt vehicle, Chev Silverado PU... with factory TPMS.... I found that some sensors have batteries that can be changed... and some sensors that when the battery dies... you throw it away and buy a new sensor.. I also found that there are now aftermarket suppliers of replacement sensors for the factory systems that are about 40% of the price a OE sensor...

So from this short bit of education... I'd want one that was serviceable with a replacement battery... or was available in the aftermarket... BTW since we had a group of vehicles we purchased a tester ($150) so we could walk around the vehicle and integrate the sensor to test it...

Hope this helps...