What are the best tyres for caravans?
Only use LT or C tyres on most caravans because P tyres do not have an adequate load rating for the job. LT tyres are made with casing cords consisting of parallel fabric and steel cords, so they have stiffer sidewalls than passenger tyres and improved load capacity. They are also better at resisting punctures. Starting from around £40, the cost of caravan tyres can vary depending on the brand, size, and load rating. It’s important to invest in good quality tyres to ensure safety and avoid any potential accidents on the road.The stiffer sidewalls provide more stability while hauling loads or driving off road. LT tires also have extra material in the sidewall and under the tread that protects the tire from damage. In the other hand, LT tires won’t ride as smooth, be as fuel efficient or last longer than a regular P-metric (Passenger)tire.Only use LT or C tyres on most caravans because P tyres do not have an adequate load rating for the job. LT tyres are made with casing cords consisting of parallel fabric and steel cords, so they have stiffer sidewalls than passenger tyres and improved load capacity. They are also better at resisting punctures.Caravans that sit on their tyres all winter can lead to flat spots. It is recommended to move your van from time to time so it does not sit on the same spot. A typical life expectancy for a caravan tyre is 5 years. Look for signs of cracking as UV plays a part in tyre life.This can be done by examining the DOT (date of manufacture) code found on the tyre sidewall. Caravan tyres need regular replacement, even if they look like they’re in good condition. The Caravan Club recommends changing them every five years and never using them when they are more than seven years old.
Do caravans need special tyres?
Caravan tyres may not specifically be made for caravans – they’ll either be made for cars or small vans. Every tyre will have a load rating, or load index. If a caravan has a maximum weight (MTPLM) of 1600kg, each wheel must carry half this load – 800kg. It’s always advisable to go for a Commercial Tyres for a single axle caravan, and a twin axle caravan where possible. The load rating will be displayed just after the tyre size – for example 185R14 102/100R – the 102 relates to the load rating on a single axle and the 100 is on a twin.Every caravan has a recommended tyre size and load index set by the manufacturer. You can find these details in the owner’s manual or on the tyre sidewall. The size will look something like 185/70 R14, while the load index is a number that indicates how much weight the tyre can safely carry.Heavier duty tyres (designed for small trucks and vans) may have a ‘C’ suffix immediately after the nominal rim diameter. This type of tyre is quite commonly fitted to caravans, especially larger single axle ones. The load index is the maximum load a tyre can carry at the speed indicated, under specific conditions.
Are budget tyres ok for a caravan?
As previously stated caravan tyres do not experience the same stresses that a car tyre does, so many users choose to fit a budget option. Budget tyres will not perish any quicker than a more expensive alternative, nor will they wear much faster that a more expensive tyre. The constant wear and tear, fluctuating load (of the caravan) and the weather conditions take a heavy toll on your caravan wheels, and it becomes extremely important to take the right care of them. Rotating the caravan tyres every once in a while is a great way to elongate their lives.Yes, balancing is important for caravan tyres, but you won’t feel vibrations from tyre imbalance as easily as you would in lighter vehicles. Caravans carry heavy loads and often travel over uneven surfaces like gravel roads, which can create extra strain on both the tyres and suspension if they’re unbalanced.Caravan tyres need regular replacement, irrespective of their visual appearance. We recommend that you replace your caravan tyres when they reach five years old and should never be used when more than seven years old.As a general rule, it is not a good idea to use car wheels on a caravan, unless you can establish (usually from the wheel manufacturer or supplier) that they are appropriate. Tyres, however, are not specially made for caravan use. Caravans use either tyres made for cars, or ones designed for use on small vans.This can be done by examining the DOT (date of manufacture) code found on the tyre sidewall. Caravan tyres need regular replacement, even if they look like they’re in good condition. The Caravan Club recommends changing them every five years and never using them when they are more than seven years old.
Do caravans need LT tyres?
For towing a caravan, you would typically choose an LT tyre for just about every trip planned. LT tyres have stronger sidewalls, can take a higher load capacity and are more resistant to puncture and harsh road surfaces that the Australian touring can often provide. The most popular size for an Australian touring (on-road) caravan is around six metres long, which is comfortable travelling for two. Size does matter but it depends on you! Keep in mind you’ll be living in a space smaller than the tiniest apartment so there are a few things to consider.