The wheels on your RV are pretty amazing. They can take you anywhere in the country you wish to go – from sea to shining sea, and lots of other fascinating places in between.
It’s important to keep your wheels in good shape, however. Not only can that prevent an unwanted stop in the middle of the journey if you need to get them repaired or replaced, but it could also prevent an accident and keep you safe. Here’s what you need to know about your RV wheels:
Check your tread often
The tread depth on your tires should be at least 6/32 of an inch. Since that’s deeper than a car tire, you can’t measure depth using Lincoln’s head on a penny. You can, however, still use a penny – put the tail side upside down in the groove and see if the top of the Lincoln Memorial is still covered. If so, you’re good. If not, your tire needs replacing.
Check the sidewalls
Look for wear and tear along the sides of your tires as well. If you see cracking and wear, it’s time to get them replaced. Sidewall weathering happens more often on RVs that have been stored for a long time, or RVs used in consistently warm climates.
Check the inflation
Make sure your tires are properly inflated. You should be able to see the PSI on the tire, but if not, check your manual or check with the manufacturer for the correct PSI. If your tires are improperly inflated, this can affect your gas mileage, cause wear and tear on your tires, and affect the safety of your vehicle.
Be careful storing your RV
Storage can cause stress on your RV wheels and tires. Make sure to take your motor home out for a drive occasionally or rotate the tires to prevent weathering and uneven wear where the tire meets the ground.
RV Skid Wheels
Skid wheels could be a worthwhile investment if your RV has a low profile. If you have issues with your rig dragging, you may want a skid wheel. It attaches to the rear trailer hitch of your rig to help keep it off the ground.
Aluminum RV wheels
You can choose RV wheels made from a variety of materials, including stainless steel…but aluminum is a popular choice. They look nice. They’re lighter and stronger than steel. They’re easy to clean. Alcoa RV wheels are a great choice, though there are several companies who make RV aluminum wheels.
RV Fifth Wheels
An RV 5th wheel is a travel trailer that hooks up to a truck (or larger vehicle) with a special hitch. The RV then hangs over the tow vehicle, with some of the weight on the rear axle. RV 5th wheels are popular because they’re larger than most other travel trailers, they’re easier to maneuver than a motorhome, and they offer a more stable ride than a traditional travel trailer that might sway.
A used RV fifth wheel is a cheaper way to get started with a travel trailer. Make sure the frame is in good shape, without a lot of rust. Check the tires – even if they look like they’re in good shape, if they’re older, they’ll need to be replaced soon. Have a mechanic look over the trailer to inspect the electrical, mechanical, and brake systems. Also, look for signs of water damage, which could present a huge problem later on. You also want to make sure the truck you’re using has enough towing capacity for the trailer.
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