Choosing the right tires for your RV can be quite the adventure. From understanding tire sizes to deciding on the best brand, the process can be overwhelming.

Luckily, we found a video from the channel Tigner Adventures where David walks us through his experience of selecting and installing new tires for his RV.

Below, we’ll highlight key points from his journey and provide some insights to help you make the best choice for your RV.

1. Understanding Tire Sizes

When it comes to RV tires, size matters. David explains that his RV originally came with 255/80 Michelin tires but he decided to switch to Toyo tires. He mentions, “a Michelin 255/80 converts to a theoretically to a 265/70 Toyo” but finding the right size can be tricky. He eventually settled on 255/70 Toyo tires, which are more readily available. Funny enough, he jokes, “I don’t understand this but, I did find a tire calculator thing.” Tire calculators can be confusing, but they are essential tools for ensuring you get the right fit.

Instructions:

  • Check your current tire size.
  • Use a tire calculator to find equivalent sizes in other brands.
  • Ensure the new size is readily available in your area.

2. The Importance of Consistency

Having a consistent set of tires is crucial for safety and performance. David’s RV had a mix of different brands, which he found problematic. He says, “they started off as Firestone and everything I think or Goodyear… so it’s a mix of different tires.” Switching to a single brand, Toyo, provided peace of mind. He humorously notes, “I heard some things that I didn’t like about Michelin… so we’re going to go with Toyo.” Consistency in tire brands can help avoid unexpected issues on the road.

Instructions:

  • Inspect your current tires to see if they are all the same brand and model.
  • If not, consider switching to a single brand for uniform performance.
  • Research reviews and recommendations for the brand you choose.

3. Availability and Convenience

David emphasizes the importance of choosing tires that are readily available. He explains, “everyone says everybody carries 255 size tires… they don’t even have to order them.” This availability ensures that if you have a breakdown, you can easily find replacements. Reflecting on his decision, he quips, “it’s better to have a 255 or need a 255 because people can accommodate you.” Ensuring your tires are easy to replace can save you a lot of headaches.

Instructions:

  • Choose a tire size that is commonly stocked by local tire shops.
  • Verify availability in multiple locations, especially if you travel frequently.
  • Opt for sizes that are standard for trucks and RVs for easier replacement.

4. Balancing and Maintenance

Proper balancing is essential for a smooth ride. David’s experience with balancing beads highlights their effectiveness. He mentions, “the manager here at Southern Tire Mart says that he put these in his big truck and it’s the best way to go.” He humorously adds, “those rims had weights on the actual rim and they had beads in the tires so they’re just fighting each other.” Balancing beads can be a great alternative to traditional weights, providing a smoother ride and less frequent maintenance.

Instructions:

  • Consider using balancing beads instead of traditional weights for your RV tires.
  • Ensure that only one balancing method is used to avoid conflicts.
  • Regularly check your tire balance to maintain optimal performance.

5. Final Thoughts and Test Drive

After the installation, David was pleased with the performance of his new tires. He says, “seem to drive down the freeway really nice.” Reflecting on the entire process, he humorously remarks, “did I make a mistake? I guess time is only going to tell.” The decision to switch to Toyo tires proved to be a good one for him, but it’s always important to monitor performance over time.

Instructions:

  • Schedule regular maintenance checks to ensure your tires remain in good condition.
  • After installing new tires, take your RV for a test drive to check for any issues.
  • Monitor tire performance over time and keep an eye out for any irregularities.