5 Tips for Protecting Tires in RV Storage in Camby, Indiana
Are you one of the lucky RV owners in Camby, Indiana, who gets to explore the open road whenever the travel bug bites? If so, you probably know how crucial it is to maintain your RV, especially when it's not in use.
While engines and interiors often get a lot of attention, RV tires are often overlooked, even though they're the foundation of your rig. Storing your RV properly can extend the life of its tires, ensuring each trip is as smooth as the last.
1. Clean and Inspect Tires Before Storage
Before tucking your RV away for the season, it's vital to take a thorough look at your tires. Cleaning and inspecting them is the first step in proper tire care. Begin by washing off any dirt or debris. This prevents the buildup of grime, which can cause wear and tear over time. While cleaning, it's also the perfect opportunity to inspect the tires for any damage or irregularities.
Look for cracks, cuts, or bulges, which could indicate potential problems. Catching these issues early can save you from unexpected troubles down the road. Consider using a mild soap and water solution to clean the tires, avoiding harsh chemicals that might degrade the rubber. With this quick inspection, you're setting a solid foundation for tire longevity.
Once your tires are clean, it's recommended to apply a protective coating or conditioner specifically designed for rubber surfaces. These products help preserve the tire's flexibility and shield it from harmful UV rays. This added layer of protection is especially crucial if your storage area exposes your tires to sunlight.
2. Inflate Tires to the Recommended Pressure
Perhaps one of the most critical aspects of tire maintenance is ensuring they are inflated to the recommended pressure. Proper inflation prevents the tires from becoming deformed while sitting idle. Under-inflated tires can lead to unnecessary strain, causing damage that might not be immediately visible but could become evident once you're back on the road.
Before putting your rig in RV storage in Camby, check the manufacturer's guidelines for the correct tire pressure. Use a reliable gauge to adjust the pressure accordingly. Regular inflation checks are not just a storage tip; they are a best practice for tire health all year round. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in the lifespan of your tires.
In addition to maintaining the correct pressure, consider investing in a high-quality tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). This handy device continuously tracks tire pressure and alerts you to any significant changes. While this might seem like an extra expense, it provides peace of mind and ensures you’re always driving safely.
3. Use Tire Covers
When it comes to protecting your RV tires from the elements, tire covers are a must-have accessory. These covers act as a shield against harmful UV rays, rain, and other environmental factors that can degrade your tires over time. By minimizing exposure, tire covers help prevent cracking and fading, common issues for tires left unprotected.
Using tire covers is particularly beneficial if your RV will be in storage for an extended period. In the long run, these covers can save you money by prolonging the life of your tires and reducing the need for premature replacements.
4. Avoid Parking on Bare Ground
Where you park your vehicle during RV storage in Camby can significantly affect tire condition. Parking directly on bare ground, such as dirt or grass, exposes your tires to moisture and uneven surfaces. This can lead to tire rot and deformation, ultimately affecting performance and safety.
To avoid these issues, consider using tire pads or blocks to elevate your RV off the ground. These pads create a barrier between your tires and the ground, preventing direct contact with moisture. Additionally, they help distribute the RV's weight more evenly, reducing the risk of flat spots.
If tire pads aren't available, parking on a paved or gravel surface is a good alternative. However, keep in mind that even paved surfaces can become hot and contribute to tire degradation over time. Regularly rotating your RV’s position, discussed in the next section, can mitigate this risk.
5. Rotate the RV’s Position Periodically
Even during storage, it's crucial to rotate your RV's position periodically. This practice helps distribute the weight evenly across all tires, preventing flat spots from forming. Flat spots occur when a tire remains in one position under the weight of the RV for too long, causing uneven wear.
Aim to move your RV every few months, even if it's just a short distance. This small movement can have a big impact on maintaining tire shape and integrity. While it requires a bit of effort, the payoff is worth it when you hit the road again with tires that are as round and ready as they were before storage.
If moving the entire RV isn't feasible, consider jacking it up slightly to relieve some weight from the tires. This technique can also aid in preventing flat spots, though it's important to ensure stability and safety when using jacks.
Choose Hawkeye RV Storage in Camby
For RV owners, finding reliable RV storage in Camby, IN can significantly enhance your tire care routine. Hawkeye Storage offers facilities designed to protect your RV from the elements while providing peace of mind.
Additionally, our secure facility makes it an ideal choice for long-term storage. Book your space today!