Airstream INTERNATIONAL CCD - Manual (Page 48)

D
EXTERIOR
D - 9
Under Inflation
Under inflation brings a higher risk of damage due to road hazards, reduces casing
durability, causes a loss in fuel economy, and uneven or irregular tire wear. Severe
under inflation brings about an increased risk of tread separation, handling difficulties,
and possibly tires failure, caused by overheating.
IMPORTANT: Lowering tire pressure in the search for a smoother ride is not only
dangerous, it’s relatively ineffective, and as the difference in the ride quality is
not significant. When minimum inflation pressure requirements are not met, tire
durability and optimum operating conditions are compromised. Tire inflation
pressure should always meet the guidelines for vehicle weight.
• It may be necessary to inflate your tires at a truck stop or truck service
center in order to achieve adequate air pressure for your coach’s needs
• Only permanent air seal metal valve caps should be used.
• Be safe - if a tire has been run 20% under inflated, it must be dismounted and
inspected by a trained professional. It should not be aired up without a full
inspection or without using a safety cage. Use a calibrated gauge. If your
tire is rated for higher inflation pressures, a special gauge will be required
designed for larger tires.
• Don’t bleed air from warm tires to reduce pressure buildup
• Don’t inflate tires to cold PSI rating beyond rim specifications
HOW OVERLOADING AFFECTS YOUR TIRES
Tire pressure is what enables your RV tire to support loads. Overloading your tires
can have serious consequences for passengers and your RV. Too much weight can
cause stress on your RV’s suspension system, brake failure, shock absorber damage,
handling and steering problems, irregular tire wear and possible tire failure. Excessive
loads or under inflation can lead to an excessive amount of heat and tire failure. If you
discover that your tires cannot handle the load, lighten the weight of the load on your
tires.
Tire pressure should never be reduced below the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended
levels to support load conditions in order to improve the ride quality of a vehicle. The
difference in ride quality is not significant. When inflation pressure requirements are not
met, tire durability and optimum operation can be affected.
Lug Nut Torquing
WARNING : WHEEL SEPARATION CAN OCCUR
1. On first trip, tighten wheel lugs at start and at 10, 25, and 50 miles.
2. Thereafter, check wheel lugs before each trip.
3. Following winter storage, check before beginning a trip.
4. Following excessive braking, inspect wheel lugs
NOTE: Use a torque wrench to tighten lug nuts. Tightening by hand or with an
impact wrench is not recommended.
See Chart in Specification Section in this manual for wheel torque ratings.
Proper wheel nut torque is very important to safe and dependable towing of your ve-
hicle. The wheel and axle systems used in travel trailers and fifth wheels are similar,
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