Airstream 2015 Flying Cloud, Owner'S Manual

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8
maintenance
Flying Cloud 8-9
tire inspection and Storage
Before taking your trailer on a trip or when removing
it from an extended storage period, make it a practice
to inspect the overall condition of your tires. Check for
any type of condition or damage that might result in
failure. A thorough check should include both inside
and outside sidewalls, tread area and the condition
of hardware such as valve stems, valve caps, and
wheels. The tread should be checked for any unusual
wear, cracking, penetrations and/or cuts. An uneven
wear pattern can indicate misalignment or worn
suspension parts.
Since many RVs are used seasonally and sometimes
stored for extended times, it is possible that tires will
take many years to wear out. Tires, as any rubber
product, will age over time. If tires show cracking
in the sidewall or tread surfaces that are more than
2/32 in. deep, they should be replaced before your
next trip or vacation. Store your RV in a cool dry area
away from major heat sources and extreme cold.
An enclosed storage area is best with no exposure
to electromagnetic sources such as generators or
transformers. If you must keep your trailer outside,
cover your tires from direct sunlight. Take your trailer
to your tire dealer for service to check or correct any of
these conditions.
tire and Wheel Replacement
It is possible to replace your tires with a different size,
in some instances, to increase your load capacity with
a different inflation pressure. If there is a reason to
replace your tires with a different size, make sure the
following checks are made before the purchase:
• Does the replacement tire have the load capacity that
is needed for my trailer and will it fit properly inside
the wheel well?
• Will the overall diameter difference affect the braking
system?
• Is the increase in air pressure compatible with the
maximum rated pressure stamped on the rim?
Most trailers are towed at or near maximum loads
during hot weather and then are left idle for months. In
normal use, oils in the tire come to the surface during
flexing and protect the rubber from ultraviolet light. But
when when the tires are long idle, natural aging may
cause the rubber to crack prematurely, especially in
the sidewall area. Trailer tires over 5 years old should
be inspected by a tire expert for cracking and replaced
even if it has no apparent tread wear.
Choose a tire adequate for the load. The load rating
printed on the sidewall will show the maximum load
that can be carried at a defined pressure.
A Goodyear ST225/75 R15 tire inflated to 65 psi
(MAX.) has load capacity of 2540 lbs.
A Goodyear ST215/75 R14 tire inflated to 50 psi
(MAX.) has load capacity of 1850 lbs.
An ST225/75R15 tire is a special trailer tire with a
section width of 225 mm, a height-to-width ratio of
75%, and radial construction with a diameter of 15 in.
As the width-to-height ratio becomes smaller, the tire
has a lower profile.
WARNING
Do not mismatch wheels and tires.
Axle systems are installed with hubs and drums
that are compatible with many wheels used in the
recreational vehicle industry that have matching
bolt patterns. If the original manufacturer-installed
equipment is in need of replacement, the wheel
manufacturer should be contacted for proof of
compatibility prior to replacement and use.
Customers replacing original equipment that has
not been tested for compatibility must ensure the
replacements are compatible to the hub and drum
assembly installed. Such elements of compatibility
include, but are not limited to:
• Diameter of the hub-mounting surface.
• Stud length and diameter.
• Location and number of studs.
• Center hole diameter for the wheel.
• Wheel-mounting offset from the rim center.
• Rated capacity of the wheel
•
Wheel fastener torque.
• Wheel nut size and shape.
• Impact of any added wheel accessories (such as
decorative center caps) that could affect proper
seating of the wheel to the hub surface.