Monaco Executive 2001, Owner'S Manual

Page: 234 / 269

Chassis Information
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E X E C U T I V E
7 • 2 3 4
The tire designed for your RV is a very technical and precisely engi-
neered product. To obtain the maximum use and best service out of your
tires, it is helpful to understand the function of a tire. A tire is a “container”
that holds air. It is the combination of air and tire that supports the
motorhome and its contents. In addition, since the tire is the only contact that
the motorhome has with the road surface, it must provide other functions
such as traction for moving, stopping, steering and providing a cushion for
the motorhome.
The most important factor in maximizing the life of your tires is main-
taining proper inflation. Driving on any tire that does not have the correct
inflation pressure for the load of the motorhome is dangerous and may cause
premature wear, tire damage, and/or loss of control of the motorhome.
A tire that is underinflated will build up excessive heat that may go
beyond the prescribed limits of endurance of the rubber and radial cords.
This could result in sudden failure. A tire that is underinflated will also cause
poor motorhome handling, rapid and/or irregular tire wear and an increase in
rolling resistance which results in a decrease in its fuel economy.
Over inflation will reduce the tire’s footprint or contact patch with the
road, thus reducing the traction, braking capacity, and handling of the
motorhome. A tire that is over inflated for the load will also contribute to a
harsh ride, uneven tire wear and will be more susceptible to impact damage.
Maintaining correct tire inflation pressure for each loaded wheel position
on your motorhome is of the utmost importance and must be a part of regular
motorhome maintenance.
Federal law requires that the tire’s maximum load rating be molded into
the sidewall of the tire. If you look on your tire’s sidewall you’ll see the
maximum load allowed for the size tire and load rating, and the minimum
cold air inflation pressure needed to carry that stated maximum load.
Utilizing less air pressure means a lesser load can be carried by the tire. The
chart at the end of the section shows weights that can be supported by vari-
ous air pressures.
The amount of air pressure you need to use is dependent on the weight of
your fully loaded motorhome.
The GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and G.A.W.R. (Gross Axle
Weight Rating) stickers on your RV (normally located on the support pillar
next to the driver’s seat) will show you the chassis manufacturer’s and/or the
RV manufacturer’s total vehicle maximum weight ratings and per axle
weight rating.
The GVWR is the maximum total weight for which the motorhome is
The Importance
of Air Pressure
How Much Air
Should I Carry
in My Tires?
How to
Determine
the RV’s
Correct
Weight
TIRES & WHEELS
What is
a tire’s function?