By Dustin Simpson
Join me “In The RV Shop” as we discuss how carrying a spare tire for your RV is a smart and essential precaution, as it can provide a quick solution in case of a flat tire. Here are some important considerations regarding having a spare tire for your RV:
Size and compatibility
Ensure that the spare tire is the correct size and type for your RV. RVs may have different tire sizes, including those for the tow vehicle and the trailer. The spare tire should match the size of the tires currently in use.
Proper inflation
Regularly check the inflation pressure of the spare tire to ensure it is ready for use in case of an emergency. Insufficient inflation can compromise its effectiveness. It’s a good idea to have a portable compressor to fill your tires while on the road.
Storage location
Know where the spare tire is stored on your RV. It may be located in an exterior compartment, underneath the RV, or on the rear bumper. Familiarize yourself with the location and access procedures.
Tools and equipment
Carry the necessary tools and equipment to change a tire, including a jack, lug wrench, and any additional tools specific to your RV’s tire-changing process. Verify that these tools are in good condition and accessible.
Inspect regularly
Periodically inspect the spare tire for signs of wear, damage, or dry rot. If the spare tire is mounted on the exterior of the RV, exposure to the elements can contribute to deterioration.
Tire changing instructions
Familiarize yourself with the tire-changing instructions provided by your RV manufacturer. The process may vary based on the RV’s design and the location of the spare tire.
Weight considerations
Be mindful of the weight of the spare tire and its impact on your RV’s overall weight. Ensure that your RV is within its weight limits, accounting for the spare tire and any additional cargo.
Emergency roadside assistance
While having a spare tire is crucial, it’s also wise to have a backup plan in case you encounter difficulties or are unable to change the tire yourself. Consider subscribing to an emergency roadside assistance service that can provide professional help when needed.
Tire maintenance
Practice regular tire maintenance for all tires on your RV, including the spare. This includes checking tire pressure, inspecting for damage, and rotating tires as recommended by the tire manufacturer.
Having a properly maintained spare tire and the necessary tools can provide peace of mind during your travels. Regular inspections and staying prepared for emergencies contribute to a safer and more enjoyable RV experience.
More from Dustin
Make sure you check out my website, California RV Specialists, and our YouTube channel for more helpful information, and see our published articles on RVtravel.com and other social media pages.
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RVDT2911
Recently had a flat on my tandem axle trailer and has to use the spare for the first time. The wheel fit and allowed me to limp to the campground. However I noticed that the hub hole in the spare was substantially larger than the axle hub. Unlike my normal trailer wheels where the weight of the trailer rests on the wheel and the lug nuts mainly hold the wheel to the hyb, this meant that the lug nuts were now also supporting the weight of the trailer. This changed my plans from driving with the spare until convenient to that of replacing the tire right away. You can buy hubcentric spacer rings to take up the gap but obviously while on the road that is a little more difficult to obtain.
Having a spare would be nice, however, there is nowhere reasonable to place it.
But having the most easily obtained tire size reduces my concern. WalMart has it in stock everywhere.
I carry two spares.
Out west in the boonies, there are times that I’m and hour or two from any services.
I did have a spare tire when we had our travel trailer, but since we moved to a class A diesel pusher, it doesn’t have a spare tire, but even if it did, I couldn’t manage the tire let alone change it. So I carry roadside assistance.
Carrying a spare tire for a motorhome is usually not practical for these reasons: 1) Cost. 2) Weight. 3) Lack of storage space. 4) Noxious odor from off-gassing if stored inside a compartment. 5) Are the rims for each wheel all the same (that is, stored mounted [adding even more weight] or not)?
Our tire disasters have almost all been due to foolishly not replacing aged-out tires. One tire went gradually flat after a puncture from a pallet nail and was professionally repaired. Although we carried a spare for 10 years, taking up a lot space in an underneath compartment, we never used it. We didn’t buy one for our latest MH.
Tandem axle trailers for off-grid & offroad should carry 2 spares. Single axle trailers should absolutely carry 2!
Ask me how I know.