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Caravan Tyre Safety Month 2010
Why are tyres important?
Tyres are the only part of the caravan which are in contact with the road surface. Safety in acceleration, braking, steering and cornering all rely on the tyres’ relatively small contact area with the road surface. In addition, tyres also play a fundamental role in the suspension systems of caravans.
With such an important role, it is essential that tyres are properly maintained and regular checks are carried out. With the correct care and attention your tyres will help to ensure you arrive safely at your holiday destination safely, without disruption and with minimal cost.
ADVICE AND INFORMATION
Tyre pressure
Whatever tyres are fitted to the towing car, caravan, trailer tent or motorhome, it is essential to the safety and stability of the combination that all tyres are correctly inflated for the applied load... more
Fitting the right tyre
The original tyres for a caravan are determined by joint consultation between the caravan and tyre manufacturers and take into account all aspects of operation... more
Overloading
Overloading tyres is extremely dangerous and should be avoided at all times... more
Spare tyres / wheel
It is strongly recommended that a compatible spare wheel and tyre assembly is carried for the caravan... more
Tread depth
Adequate tread depth is vitally important for road safety... more
Noseweight
The National Caravan Council’s Caravan Towing Guide recommends that the noseweight should be varied to find the optimum for towing depending upon the actual laden weight of the caravan... more
Winter storage
All tyres should be examined for signs of wear and damage regularly but this is particularly important for caravans when they have not been used for an extended period... more
Ageing
Tyres are designed and manufactured to provide thousands of miles of excellent service. For maximum benefit, they must be maintained properly to avoid damage and abuse that may result in reduced performance or compromise safety... more
INSPECTION AND CHECKS
Pressure
Correct pressure is essential for the safety and longevity of tyres... more
Ageing / cracking
Tyre condition should be checked regularly to look for signs of ageing... more
Wear and damage
Tyres can suffer from damage and premature wear for a variety of reasons... more
Centre Wear
yres suffering from this condition will show wear that is more pronounced in the centre of the tread compared with the shoulders and is likely to be caused by over-inflation... more
Brake Flatting
Brake flatting can be caused by either excessive braking or defects to the braking system. The signs are very localised wear, in which the size and shape resemble that of the contact patch with the road surface... more
Impact / pinching
In this condition, the tyre may not show any signs of impact damage on the sidewall such as cuts or grazes, but will have a localised bulge or blister on the sidewall... more
Exposed cords
When checking or changing wheels, wheel nuts or bolts should be tightened with a torque wrench. If under tightened, a wheel fixing may shake loose... more
Re-torqueing
When checking or changing wheels, wheel nuts or bolts should be tightened with a torque wrench... more
LOAD AND INFLATION TABLES
The extraordinary demands placed on tyres fitted to caravans mean that, in the interests of safety, it is prudent to avoid continuous operation at or approaching the tyres’ maximum load capacity... more
Tips for checking your tyre pressures correctly:
Tyre Pressure
- Check your tyre pressure at least once a month or before a long journey.
- Tyre pressure should be checked against the vehicle and caravan manufacturers’ recommended levels. These can be found in the vehicle handbooks and on a plate which is often located inside the fuel filler flap of the car or on the driver’s door sill
- Check the pressure when tyres are cold (i.e. when you have travelled less than two miles).
- If you are carrying a full load of passengers or luggage or will be towing a trailer or caravan, tyre pressures should be increased in line with the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. Details can be found in the handbook.
- Ensure a reliable and accurate pressure gauge is used. 6. Check the pressure in all tyres not forgetting to check any spare tyres as well.
- Check the pressure in all tyres not forgetting to check any spare tyres as well.
- While checking pressures, give the rest of the tyre a visual inspection. Remove any stones and other objects embedded in the tread. Look out for any bulges, lumps or cuts.
- If you are unsure on any aspect of tyre pressure or tyre condition take your vehicle to an approved fitting centre and speak to a qualified professional.