Very few RV tires wear out. Most of them rot due at least partially to the sun. The ultraviolet rays of the sun are persistently working on the rubber of the tire. This deterioration leads to cracks in the sidewalls and in the tread areas. When these cracks get bad enough, your tire gives up. The result is at best a flat tire and at worst an explosion. All of us have seen trucks along the road with shredded tires.

Too often, the damage is not just to the tire, but also damage to the deck. Sometimes the end result is loss of control and an accident. It is important to inspect your tires to make sure they are properly inflated and conditioned each trip. If you have doubts, go to your trusted tire supplier for a review. The life you save could be mine.

You can’t stop tire deterioration, but you can slow it down. Just as you protect your skin from the sun, you can protect your tires from the sun. One of the best methods is to keep the tires out of the sun. How? Cover your tires. There are vinyl tire covers that wrap around the tire. There are flat tire covers that attach to the side of your bed and cover the tires. Wrap arounds are less expensive, but more difficult to install. The flat allows air to circulate, blends better with the deck, is easier to install, especially without messing up the sleeves, but costs more. Plywood can be leaned against them, but it looks sticky. Some chemical compounds can be applied as a suntan lotion. Not all work the same. In fact, some tire companies speak out against it. There are some that probably do more harm than good.

Actual use of your deck promotes tire longevity. The flexing of the tire through use actually releases some of the internal rubber compounds. These components help protect the tire. There’s nothing like another reason to use your RV. If your RV is going to be parked for an extended period of time, use a vapor barrier between the concrete or asphalt and your tire.

One of the main causes of tire failure is under-inflation. Follow the instructions and inflate your tires to the proper pressure for the weight of your RV. Check the pressure when the tires are cold. Purchase a decent tire pressure gauge at your local auto parts store. They are cheap compared to the price of a tire. If you are unsure of the correct pressure, your local tire store can help. A tire failure leaves you stranded on the side of the road. A blowout usually damages your RV. Avoid the problem as much as possible.

Your tires are an important part of your rig. Once you’ve done what you can, get out there and enjoy your travels. There is much to see and many places to visit. Have to!