If you are like most RV owners, you have a busy schedule that doesn’t allow you to travel in your RV quite as often as you would like. Such is life in the real world, and unfortunately, that means your RV is going to spend some long stretches in storage between outings. To make sure it’s ready to go when your next trip does roll around, you’ll want to pay attention to some basic maintenance points that make storage more successful.
One of those maintenance points is managing the condition of your tires while parked in storage. This is easy to overlook but it can make a big difference both in how your RV performs and how much money you can save in the long run. Consider using the tips below to care for your tires and make sure they live up to the challenge of taking you wherever you want to go.
Check on the Tire Pressure
At the start of any period of time when you’ll be storing the RV for a while, be sure to check the air pressure in your tires and adjust them as needed. You want to start a storage period just at the top of your ideal pressure range, as they are sure to lose a bit of pressure as they sit. You can top off the pressure with your own air compressor if you have one available, or you can stop by a gas station or tire shop to have this task completed quickly.
Keep Them Moving
While in storage, your RV is going to be sitting still. As it sits on the same spot month after month, the tires might start to develop flat spots from the pressure that is being placed on the section of rubber in contact with the ground. One way to alleviate this issue and avoid flattening of your tires on one side is to periodically move the RV just a bit. By rolling the rig forward or backward even a foot or two, you can change which part of the tire is on the ground. Make a reminder for yourself to take care of this task once a month or so in the off-season and your tires will be better for it when the time comes to take your next trip.
Add Tire Covers
Tire covers for RV tires are relatively affordable and very easy to install. By covering the rubber while storing your RV, you can protect the tires and help them last longer overall. Specifically, this is going to be helpful if your RV is parked somewhere that will expose the tires to powerful rays from the sun day after day. Putting covers on your tires will help keep the rubber from cracking or degrading to the point where the tires need to be replaced. Given the modest cost of covers and the minimal space they take up when not in use, this is an easy step for any RV owner to take.
Clean Before a Long Storage Period
Speaking of degrading rubber, leaving your tires dirty when you put the RV into storage can cause problems. Another simple step you can take in the right direction is just to wash the tires thoroughly after your last trip before an extended storage stretch. Use a brush with firm bristles and a hose to clean off the tires and wash away any substances that might negatively impact the rubber if allowed to sit on the tires for months.
Leveling Jacks Provide Relief
One last handy tip is to use your leveling jacks to take some of the pressure off of your tires while storing the RV. You don’t need to go so far as lifting the tires completely off the ground, but engaging the jacks just enough to bear some of the burden of the weight of the RV can go a long way toward protecting the tires from damage.
You aren’t going to get far in your RV without a good set of tires. Pay attention to the condition of those tires while they are in storage and you are much more likely to find smooth sailing when the time comes to head out on the road.
Storing your RV in a covered space is a big step in the right direction for both the health of your tires and the health of the RV as a whole. By using our Build & Price tool, you can see what custom possibilities are available through American Carports, Inc. and you can bring the ideal carport or garage to life for your RV. Also, you are welcome to contact us at any time if you need help. Our team is here for you!
