Airstream 2013 SPORT, Owner'S Manual

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ExTERIOR
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manual. Since RVs can be loaded with many different configurations, the load
on each tire will vary. For this reason, air pressure should be checked based
on the load on each individual tire. Cold Inflation Pressure should be adjusted
to handle the maximum tire load, and all tires on the axle should carry the
same inflation pressure. COLD TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE is the tire pressure
checked in the morning before you drive more than a few miles or before rising
ambient temperatures or the sun’s radiant heat affects it. Check your tires’ air
pressures at least once a month, before each trip and each morning you drive
during a trip. Tire pressure should be checked cold, as tire pressure ratings
have been designed with typical running heat/pressure build-up in mind. Make
sure the valves and caps are free of dirt and moisture.
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, 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