It is vital that your tyres are in good condition. Tyres can deteriorate just as much when a vehicle stands for long periods, as when it is being used. As tyres age, the surface rubber can crack and rubber compounds can deteriorate. Manufacturers recommend that tyres are replaced after six years, even if the tread has more than the legal minimum groove depth remaining. If tyres are worn to the legal minimum tread depth, they must be replaced regardless of age. Remember to keep a spare that is the same, and gets replaced with the others.

Tyres must have a sufficient load-rating and speed-rating for towing, and must have the correct tyre pressure to suit the load being carried. Tyre pressure maintenance is important, as properly inflated tyres will give you the best economy, safety and performance from your towing vehicle and caravan. Under inflated tyres can lead to the tyre walls becoming overheated and blowing out. Over inflation can cause severe vibration and stress to your caravan.

One way to decide on the correct tyre pressure is to check the tyre placards on the vehicle and the caravan. For the towing vehicle, the placard specifies the recommended pressures for both normal and maximum load conditions when the vehicle is operated for sustained periods at high speed. For safety and optimum tyre life, inflation pressures should be adjusted in accordance with the placard recommendations.

In addition to the vehicle placard, a metal information plate fastened to the caravan provides important details in relation to mass and tyre pressure.

The tyre pressure must be adjusted according to the load, and the best way to determine the optimum tyre pressure is to know the fully laden weight of the van. A trip to a weighbridge will establish this. Tables providing the correlation between load and pressure are available from your local tyre dealer.

If in doubt, contact a tyre retailer. Correct tyre pressure will provide safe operation, maximum tyre life, the best ride, handling, and fuel economy.

Wheels, nuts and studs

All wheel nuts must be carefully tightened to the correct torque, and in the correct pattern, in accordance with the instructions provided by the vehicle manufacturer. The procedure for periodically checking the torque must also be in accordance with the instructions provided by the vehicle manufacturer.

WARNING:
Manufacturers of RVs are responsible for ensuring wheels, studs and nuts are fully compatible. If after-market wheels (and nuts) are fitted, the vehicle must be thoroughly inspected and written assurance that the replacement wheels, nuts & studs are in fact suitable for the vehicle and axle(s) must be provided.