Tips for longer RV tire life

Here are a few quick tips for your tires--quick and easy pointers to keep your expensive "shoes" happily skipping down the road:

Need a quick and inexpensive "tire cover"? Industry folks say that keeping as much light off the tires will help them last longer. Try a big, black garbage bag slid down over the tire and wrapped around to cover all surfaces--including the back. A couple strips of duct tape should keep them in place.

Use those fancy tire covers and ever forget to take them off before you drive off? A definite problem, especially with dual tires! Put a post-it note next to your motorhome's ignition switch to warn you to pull and store those spendy covers.

Take an occasional peek between your dual tires to make sure nothing has wedged in there. If it seems like something has been there a while, might be best to have a tire shop inspect for damage.

Don't use "tire dressings"--many contain chemicals that will actually dry-out the chemicals in tires that keep them from weathering. If your tires need attention, simple soap and water with a good rinse is safer.

Parking your rig for an extended stay? It's best if you give them a moisture barrier, keeping them out of direct contact with concrete, asphalt, dirt, or gravel. This will prevent the wicking of tire chemicals out of the tread surface. What to use? Commercial "tire mats" can be had, but a less expensive alternative are rubber car floor mats.