Nothing disrupts a voyage quite like an RV blowout. While RV and trailer tires typically last for about six years, there are countless factors that can shorten that estimation. A few significant, yet often overlooked, factors are vehicle alignment, hardware adjustment, and vehicle storage. Neglecting any of these necessities can cause tire wear and scary blow-outs, such as the one shown in this video:
All it takes is a little preventative maintenance to keep the good times rolling, and that is what Vancouver Axle & Frame does best. Since 1959, we have successfully serviced and repaired RVs, trailers, and a variety of other vehicles. Our long tradition of excellence and proven reliability makes VanAxle the logical choice to get your vehicle aligned, equipped with the best hardware, and ready to hit the open road.
Vehicle Alignment
Having your RV or trailer aligned is not only crucial in avoiding a battle for control on the road, but also necessary for keeping your tires in the best shape possible. When a vehicle’s suspension becomes misaligned, weight is abnormally shifted across the tires, creating more heat which can result in wear and, ultimately, blow-out.
Besides tire wear, you can look for other signs that your RV or trailer needs an alignment.
Common signs include:
- Excessive vibration
- Lower gas mileage
- Abnormal noises during braking or acceleration
- Steering feels “loose”
A quality wheel alignment requires precision. That’s why VanAxle utilizes Beeline laser wheel alignment equipment. Beeline is the best of the best and assures a perfect alignment to every vehicle every time.
Hardware Adjustment
During an alignment, our technicians will get a good look at the axle and suspension hardware of your RV or trailer. If any pieces need adjusting or replacing, the alignment process is the perfect time to do it.
The most common pieces of hardware that require attention include:
- Bushings
- Leaf springs
- Air ride suspension systems
- Shocks
- Pins
- Equalizers
High quality suspension hardware will keep your vehicle aligned and your tires safe. For this reason, the skilled mechanics at VanAxle will ensure that pins and equalizers are adequately greased, and that pins and bushings are made from bronze or copper instead of the less-durable plastic.
Proper Storage
Properly storing your RV or trailer is essential to keeping tires in tip-top shape. Best of all, once this routine storage maintenance is completed once, you can “set it and forget it” until you’re ready to travel.
For the best results of tire storage, follow these tips:
- Inflate tires to the pressure recommended by the manufacturer for storage
- Clean the tires with soapy water to eliminate degrading road oils
- Unload as much weight as possible from the interior of the vehicle
- If possible, elevate the vehicle on blocks to remove weight from the tires; if not possible, make sure the surface is sturdy, clean, and can easily drain water
- Use a tire cover to protect tires from UV light
- Move the vehicle every three months to prevent cracking and flat spots
Choose Professional Assistance
When you invest in an RV or trailer, you want to protect your investment. At VanAxle, we understand this takes time and energy, and we’re here to help. See why so many vehicle owners partner with us for all types of maintenance and repair.
Contact us to book your preventative maintenance appointment today >
Or call now (604) 882-5112
