RV Tire Buying Guide
Tires are the foundation of an RV, and if you get the wrong type of wheels for your camper, they can lead to massive problems. It’s best to stay one step ahead and buy the right set to avoid any problems. This resource will hopefully provide a little bit of knowledge about RV tires, and it will also show you how to know when it’s time to change them. If you need new tires for your RV, get in touch with us at Sterling Trailer Sales in Dunmore, AB.
Choosing the Correct Tires
RV tires come in all shapes and sizes. Like there are many types of campers, similarly, you’ll find an equivalent or greater number of unique tires to fit them. The first place to start when looking for new tires is by type. It’s best to use the manufacturer-specified tires for your rig, as these wheels are often specifically designed for certain models. The team at your local RV dealership or tire specialist should be able to provide you with that information.
Light Truck vs. Special Trailer
The two most common types of tires that you can use on your RV are light truck (LT) and special trailer (ST) tires. LT tires are built for bigger rigs, such as Class A, B, and C motorhomes. These tires have more material in their sidewalls to support heavier loads.
ST tires are a good option for towable RVs, like fifth wheels and travel trailers. ST tires can easily handle the heavyweight of a trailer and provide more strength as compared to the average passenger vehicle tire. ST tires also help reduce trailer sway, which is a common problem with towable recreational vehicles. However, they are not designed for steering or transferring power from the engine to the road like you would find with vehicle tires.
Bias-Ply vs. Radial-Ply Tires
Both these types are built for different styles of traveling requirements. Bias-ply tires have strong sidewalls designed to handle a heavier load, which reduces your risk of a blowout. You’ll get around 12,000 miles on these tires before you have to replace them. If you plan to drive over uneven roads, then bias-ply tires are recommended. Radial-ply tires can also be used on RVs and they are the more common style as they provide better traction and stability on the road. Their long-lasting treads mean that you won’t need to replace them often.
When to Change Tires
The best way to tell if it’s time to change your tires is to look at their tread. Many tires generally have a feature known as a wear bar, which is a bar that extends across the gap in the tread. When your tires are old enough that it’s time to change them, this bar will become exposed and will intersect with the tread. Don’t let your tires get worn past their reasonable limit. Riding a worn-out tire can result in a blowout, which could then result in serious injury.
Stop by Sterling Trailer Sales in Dunmore, AB today if you have questions about your RV tires! We proudly serve all those in Medicine Hat, Lethbridge, and Brooks.