Elevate wheels for long-term storage

I have read a few articles that recommend replacing the tires every 6 years.  Considering the low cost of trailer tires and the weather here in Florida, I become concerned after 4 years.  I think longevity of tires might be dependent on were you live and how you care for your tires rather than age.  One thing I have learned from past experience is that TT trailer tires seldom wear out, they deteriorate first.

[QUOTE=Bill-GA] New RV product? If moisture under the wheels is the problem how about a plastic wheel pad with holes in it to drain any water?

Originally posted by furpod We don't cover our tires. We don't elevate our tires. But we do spray them with a protectant. So far so good. And they look nice. kymooses said so.

We don't cover our tires. We don't elevate our tires. But we do spray them with a protectant. So far so good. And they look nice. kymooses said so.

To raise or not to raise?  If you do a Google on this you will find many adverse opinions.  I did not want to sound argumentative in my earlier posts, but here are some facts that can not be ignored.  Years ago it was common practice to elevate tires because they were prone to develop flat spots and sometimes the sidewalls would develop cracks or checking.  These were during the age of bias tires which were also constructed of materials inferior to today's materials.  Back in the 50's, I once purchased inexpensive tires and they were completely worn out after less than 15,000 miles.  Today, I can normally get 50,000 miles out of a set of tires.

Modern radial tires are an entirely different breed.  They no longer have that tendency to develop flat spots and if properly inflated have a much longer life and if they receive a protectant periodically and are kept covered during prolonged storage will remain crack-free for years.  In my early days of camping, my pup tires sometimes developed sidewall bulges and had a normal life of only 3 or 4 years, regardless of mileage.  They seldom wore out, just deteriorated. 

Here in Florida, we have the snowbirds that often set up camp in their 5th wheels and motor homes, staying in the same camp siite for about 6 months every year.  You don't see any of these with their wheels elevated, most just keep their tires covered for protection.  Yet, their tires do not seem to suffer from setting on the ground and not being moved for this prolonged period of time.

When it comes to caring for an RV, I turn to Bob Livingston who is considered the guru of RV repair and maintenance.  For 40 years he has been testing RVs, writing technical articles for Motor Home and Trailer Life magazines, and has written several books on understanding and caring for recreational vehicles. 

Here is an excerpt from his book, which I consider my RV bible:
"Tires subjected to the elements (especially strong sunshine) should be treated every month with a good protectant like 303.  A good quality protectant will have UV blockers and help slow down cracking and crazing and, in general,rubber compound breakdown. If the RV is going to be stored outside, cover the tires with plywood or special covers made of vinyl. Tires do not have to be lifted off the ground during the storage period."

Like I said, you will find many divergent opinions about whether you should elevate your tires or not.  Do what you feel is best, just be aware that tires are not the same animal they were a few decades ago.

Sorry for the long post.

Bob