How to Change RV Tires - A Detailed Guide
Maintaining your RV tires is essential for safety and performance. Whether you’re changing a tire on the road, without a jack, or on a fifth wheel, here’s everything you need to know.
How to Change RV Tires?
Changing an RV tire can be straightforward if you follow these steps:
Tools Needed
- Spare tire
- Lug wrench
- Tire chocks
- Gloves (optional)
Steps
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Prepare Your RV: Park your RV on a flat, stable surface. Turn on your hazard lights and engage the parking brake.
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Chock the Wheels: Place tire chocks around the wheels that will remain on the ground to prevent rolling.
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Loosen the Lug Nuts: Using a lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire but do not remove them completely.
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Raise the RV: If you have a jack, lift the RV until the tire is off the ground. If you don’t have a jack, refer to the “How to Change RV Tires Without a Jack” section below.
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Remove the Flat Tire: Once the tire is elevated, remove the loosened lug nuts and take off the flat tire.
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Install the Spare Tire: Place the spare tire onto the wheel hub, aligning the holes. Hand-tighten the lug nuts.
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Lower the RV: If you used a jack, lower the RV back to the ground. If you used ramps, drive the RV off the ramps.
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Tighten the Lug Nuts: With the RV back on the ground, tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.
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Check the Pressure: After changing the tire, check the pressure of the spare tire to ensure it’s safe to drive.
How to Change RV Tires Without a Jack?
If you find yourself without a jack, you can still change your RV tire using ramps or blocks. Here’s how:
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Find a Suitable Ramp: Look for sturdy ramps or blocks that can support the weight of your RV. Ensure they are on stable ground.
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Drive onto the Ramp: Carefully drive the RV onto the ramp, ensuring that the flat tire is on the ground.
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Change the Tire: Once elevated, follow the steps outlined above to remove the flat tire and install the spare.
How to Change Tires on a Fifth Wheel?
Changing tires on a fifth wheel RV follows a similar process but may require additional attention due to its unique structure:
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Prepare the Fifth Wheel: Make sure it’s securely hitched to your tow vehicle and parked on a level surface.
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Chock the Wheels: Place wheel chocks on both sides of the tires that will remain on the ground.
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Loosen the Lug Nuts: Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire.
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Use a Jack or Ramp: If you have a jack, lift the fifth wheel until the tire is off the ground. If not, use ramps to elevate the unit as described above.
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Follow Standard Tire Change Steps: Remove the flat tire, install the spare, lower the fifth wheel, and tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.
How Often Should I Change RV Tires?
Regular maintenance is vital for safety and performance. Here’s how often you should consider changing your RV tires:
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Time Frame: Replace tires every 5 to 7 years, regardless of tread wear. Rubber degrades over time.
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Tread Wear: Regularly check tread depth. If it’s below 2/32 of an inch, it’s time to replace.
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Usage and Conditions: Frequent travelers or those who store their RV outside should inspect tires more often.
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Manufacturer Recommendations: Always refer to the RV manufacturer’s guidelines for specific tire care.
Related article: How to change RV tires?
Conclusion
Changing RV tires is a vital skill for any RV owner. Whether you do it with or without a jack, on a fifth wheel, or at regular intervals, understanding tire maintenance ensures safe travels. Regularly inspect your tires and follow these guidelines to keep your RV in optimal condition. Safe travels!