I WAS WRONG!
Ok, I can admit when I was wrong and this time, well, I was wrong. :)
I am often asked on my opinion on the use of “RV Tire Covers” for UV protection from the sun. I would say that tires were built to be outside. But I also did not think about the fact that they were also made to be used! That was my mistake, the not using them part and why you should use a tire cover to protect them if you are sitting still for longer periods of time. It has to do with the distribution of something called “Paraffin”.
So, here is a Quick Tip video on my new take, thoughts, on RV Tire Covers for UV Protection and the really nice ones I came across that got me past the “ugly look” of them.
Company: Magne Shade
Product: Tire Shade (If you order a set, tell them we said Hi!)
URL: https://magneshade.com
love them!!
About a year ago, I asked you about tire covers since you are parked for several months at a time and you gave me the explanation against the need for them as you just mentioned. Then, I remember that you were going to the Michelin dealer on your return trip to NY because you had noticed some cracking in your tires. I was always curious as to what was resolved since you said that the tires were still under warranty. Now, I know that covers are advised if you don’t move the RV for an extended period of time. Thanks for your follow-up. Looking forward to your first road trip to the Great Northwest since you haven’t done that one as yet–Ha, Ha! You will just have to leave NY a little sooner to avoid the cold weather there. Thanks again for your blogs.
Well, I surely can admit when I was not right. Even more so when I have better data. :) The 303 I used almost monthly may have helped, but surely was not all that was needed when you are not “on the move”. He did say that if we moved monthly then it would not be as much of an issue. But not moving does not give a way for the paraffin to move around to protect the tires.
So next question u might be asked is why do u have different size tires from front and back??
And why Michelin tires??
Huggs from Alaska ?
That really is not anything weird. :) The tires in the front of a Class A coach are usually larger in size as they carry a lot of weight being only two in the front. Were as in the rear, there are multi tires. As far as to why Michelin, well, that is what came with it and also happens to be the most used coach tire. They are a well respected tire company.
In 17 years of RVing I have never heard of using larger tires on the front of a motor home than those on the rear.
I just replaced my Michelins with Toyos. It just didn’t make economical sense to spend more than twice the money for Michelins as the Toyos. Since both brands of tires will be replaced in 5 to 7 years. Why spend the extra money? Both my wife and I agree the Toyos ride just as nice as the Michelins. But with the added benefit of being quieter.
Even our 2008 coach had larger tires are on the front. It is based on the load it needs to carry were the front handles more weight per tire. As such, the tires are larger to be able to handle the weight and the steering pressure. (It is not my choice to use larger tires, it is that way it is based on the carry weight of the coach. By design.) As far as the brand, to me is is based on the manufacturer and not the price. Personally, I trust Michelins and really would not looks to put something else on our coach based on price point. Please also be sure to set the proper tire pressure based on weight and DO NOT just set it to the MAX PSI which most people do not knowing any better. (Like they do in a car tire which is totally different.)
Big thumbs up from us for Magna Shades. Love the tire covers and window covers, too!
David
I appreciate and more importantly TRUST the information I get from you and Brenda because you are always willing to believe there might be a better way.
While I have always believed in covering my tires (only when parked for extended periods) I too hate the standard covers. Sooo if and when mine wear out I’m totally getting those beauties you recommend.
Thanks for this information! We had just dug out our ugly covers for our extended summer stay in MT but now have ordered these great looking covers! Funny I just noticed that our neighbor has them on his coach and never noticed til now! Have a great summer!
Dave,
Thanks for the info – I have a 2014 36LA and my factory tires have those small cracks as well. What did the Michelin rep say about warranty replacement due to the cracks?
That they have a 7 year sidewall crack warranty that is looked at on a case by case basis. You can’t just go to any tire shop, you need to find a rep that will look at the issue and then they can advise on what they can do. You may have to call them like we did to find someone in the area that can look at them to advise you.
I like the idea but my hubby say’s being blk they will attract heat. what’s your thoughts
Heat is not the killer, it’s the UV light that degrades the rubber. (Per the manufacturer)
we’ve been using them for 6 months now and like em. Only drawback is my wife and I look like we’re wrestling when we try to fold them up to put back in bag!!
If I can offer a suggestion…..hold them out in front of you and put your hands at 3 o’clock and 9’oclock. Have one hand in an inverted grip compared to the other (I prefer right hand thumb down and left hand thumb up).
Then twist your hands in opposite directions while bringing them in towards each other (it will make sense when you do it, as you can only move your hands in the correct direction). The tire shade will fold like a car windshield shade and you’re done!
It is amazing video and also useful. Thank toy for sharing this post and video.