INCORRECT TYRE PRESSURES
UNDER-INFLATION
If a tyre is not inflated to the pressure that is required to match the actual tyre loading , the tyre tread will not have full contact with the road surface , causing the outer portions of the tread to be subjected to increased loading , with subsequent increased temperatures and increased wear .
The traction between the tyre and the road surface will be decreased , and the sidewalls of the tyre will significantly flex , causing the van to wallow and sway .
Make a habit of checking your van and tow vehicle ' s tyre pressures .
OVER-INFLATION
If a tyre is inflated above the pressure that is required to match the actual tyre loading , again the tyre tread will not have full contact with the road surface , this time causing the centre portion of the tread to be subjected to increased loading , with subsequent increased temperatures and increased wear .
Again , the traction between the tyre and the road surface will be decreased , causing the tyre to bulge , and the van to bounce and skip .
In both cases , the handling and stability of the van will be impaired , and the tyre life appreciably reduced . While most of the tread will have plenty of kilometres of travel remaining , the outer peripheries of an under-inflated tyre will be worn down to the tread wear indicators , thus rendering the tyre un-roadworthy , while for an over-inflated tyre , the inner periphery will be worn down to a dangerous and illegal level .
WHEEL STUDS AND LOOSE NUTS
According to Colin Young of the Caravan
Council of Australia , this organisation has received multiple reports of broken wheel studs and loose wheel nuts .
“ It must be stressed that if a stud breaks , it is certainly no proof that the stud itself was faulty ,” Mr Young said .
He said there were a number of potential reasons for these issues . “ All supplied instructions regarding wheels and wheel nuts must be precisely followed . It is vital to ensure that if van owners or dealers fit aftermarket wheels and nuts , they thoroughly check to ensure the replacement wheels and nuts are , in fact , completely suitable for the vehicle and axles .”
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