How to Properly Calculate the PSI for Caravan Tyres
At Adelaide RV, we’re committed to keeping you adventure-ready. Before setting off on your next holiday, it’s essential to ensure your caravan tyres are in optimal condition. Your tyres are the only point of contact between your caravan and the road, making them a critical component of your travel safety. In this guide, we’ll cover how to calculate the correct PSI (pounds per square inch) for your caravan tyres and why it matters.
The Basics: What to Check Before You Hit the Road
- Tyre Pressure: Ensure your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure. Proper inflation improves road traction and fuel efficiency while reducing wear and tear.
- Tyre Condition: Inspect for visible punctures, nails, or other damage. Don’t forget to check your spare tyre – caravans typically have five tyres, and the spare is just as important as the others.
- Tyre Age: Tyres have a manufacturing date printed on them. If your tyres are older or you’ve purchased a second-hand caravan, verify their age to ensure they’re still safe to use.
Why PSI for Caravan Tyres Matter
Incorrect tyre pressure can lead to several issues:
- Over-inflated tyres: The centre tread will wear out faster, reducing traction and causing the van to feel unstable.
- Under-inflated tyres: These can cause the tyre to heat up excessively, leading to premature wear, increased fuel consumption, and even the risk of de-beading.
Getting the right PSI not only improves safety but also ensures your caravan handles better and your tyres last longer.
A Simple Rule of Thumb
For bitumen roads, a general rule is to inflate your tyres to half your speed. For example, if you’re driving at 100 km/h, set your tyres to 50 PSI. For extended periods on dirt roads, lower the tyre pressure slightly to reduce the risk of punctures and improve comfort.
Remember, tyre pressures increase with heat. After driving for an hour, check your tyres again. A slight rise in PSI (e.g., from 50 PSI to 54 PSI) is normal due to road heat. However, if the increase is significant, your tyres may be under-inflated, causing excessive heat buildup.
How to Calculate PSI for Light Truck Tyres
Most caravans use light truck tyres, which require a specific calculation for PSI based on the caravan’s ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass). Here’s how to do it:
- Convert the ATM to pounds: Multiply the ATM in kilograms by 2.2.
- Divide by the number of tyres: Typically, this is four for a caravan.
- Divide by 35 square inches: This is the standard footprint for light truck tyres.
For example:
- ATM = 3,088 kg
- Convert to pounds: 3,088 × 2.2 = 6,793.6 lbs
- Divide by 4 tyres: 6,793.6 ÷ 4 = 1,698.4
- Divide by 35: 1,698.4 ÷ 35 = 48.5 PSI (round up to 50 PSI for ease).
Tips for Towing Comfort
When towing, adjust your vehicle’s rear tyres for better stability. If you normally drive with rear tyres at 36 PSI, increase them to at least 40 PSI while towing. This adjustment provides a firmer ride and better control.
Ongoing Maintenance
- Visual Inspection: Regularly check for uneven wear, damage, or debris embedded in the tyres.
- Tyre Alignment: Use a straightedge to ensure tyres are aligned properly. Misalignment can cause uneven wear and affect handling.
- Rotate Tyres: During servicing, ask your technician to rotate the tyres, including the spare, to maximise their lifespan.
- Check Wheel Nuts: Loose wheel nuts can lead to catastrophic tyre failure. Ensure they’re tight before every trip.
Handy Equipment
Invest in a reliable tyre gauge or inflator. Many models are battery-operated and compatible with other tools like blowers or vacuums. Having your own equipment ensures you can check and adjust tyre pressures conveniently, even at the caravan park.
Final Check
Before heading out on your next adventure, give your tyres a thorough check when you leave home and when you return. This proactive approach ensures you catch potential issues early and stay safe on the road.
At Adelaide RV, we want you to focus on enjoying your journey, not worrying about your tyres. If you have questions or need assistance, our team is always here to help. Stop by, say g’day, and let us know how we can support your travels. Happy adventuring!