Saving 💰On RV Tires - And Getting The Job Done Right

Even though our RV has eight tires, we follow a somewhat unusual tire rotation schedule, so we only replaced two of them this year. But even with only two new tires, we spent a LOT less on our new Michelins with the FMCA RV Tire Savings Program. For our XZA2 Energy 295/80R22.5 tires, we saved over $100… PER TIRE!
As we do most winters, we spent this past one snowbirding in the Desert Southwest. Since it was time for new tires while we were there, we followed the recommendation of close friends (fellow RVers of course), who raved about the service they get at Redlands Truck & RV.
Save $10 on your annual FMCA membership with Promo Code RVGA2
join.fmca.com/r...
Complete details on the FMCA RV Tire Savings Program:
www.fmca.com/r...
Next time you're in the Desert SW, visit Redlands Truck & RV:
redlandstruckse...
Special thanks to drone pilot extraordinaire Tom Morton of MortonsOnTheMov... for the slick highway and BLM aerials.
RECENT & RELATED VIDEOS:
RV Tire Age, Care & Replacement: • RV Tire Age, Care & Re...
Are "Cold" Tire Pressures COLD?: • Are Your "Cold" RV Tir...
Inflate RV Tires The Easy Way: • How To Inflate RV Tire...
Face East When We Boondock?: • Why Do We Face East Wh...
Live Chat with RVwithTito: • RVgeeks & RVwithTito L...
Newmar Super Star Super C RV: • Super C RV - Newmar Su...
Our Live Newmar RVX Broadcast: • Newmar Super Star Reve...
How to Replace an RV Awning: • How to Replace RV Pati...
Xscapers Bash Final Night Surprise: • Xscapers Bash Final Ni...
Lithium vs AGM vs Flooded: • ⚡️ RV BATTERY TYPES CO...
RV Dinner for Four - For Real!: • Dinner for Four - For ...
Classic Airstream Restoration: • Classic Airstream Rest...
Acuva Lab Testing & Giveaway: • Safe RV Drinking Water...
U.K. Motorhome Tour - Part 1: • U.K. Motorhome Tour - ...
U.K. RV Hookup, Dump, Fill - Pt 2: • 😳 Driving an RV on NAR...
U.K. RVing on NARROW Roads: • 😳 Driving an RV on NAR...
U.K. Narrowboat - Cruising the Cut: • We're Cruising The Cut...
Peterborough Lift Lock: • Peterborough Lift Lock...
RV Lithium/AGM Upgrade Part 1: • 🔌 RV Lithium/AGM Batt...
RV Lithium/AGM Upgrade Part 2: • 🔌 Widening the Batter...
RV Lithium/AGM Upgrade Part 3: • 🔌 RV Lithium/AGM Batt...
RV Lithium/AGM Upgrade Part 4: • 🔌 LITHIUM BATTERY INST...
RV Lithium/AGM Upgrade Part 5: • 🔌 Battery & Electrical...
RV Lithium/AGM Upgrade Part 6: • 🔌 SYSTEM UPDATE! RV Li...
Join us at TheRVgeeks.com for more great RVing content!
Full-Time RVers since April, 2003, we share DIY (do it yourself) RV maintenance, repair, travel, upgrade and operational tips & tricks.
Many RVers are eager to learn more about using, maintaining and caring for their rigs. We hope our experience can help others go DIY, saving time & money, plus the satisfaction of a job well done.
We're handy RVers, not professional technicians. We're happy with the techniques and products we use, but be sure to confirm that all methods and materials you use are compatible with your equipment and abilities. Regardless of what we recommend, consult a professional if you're unsure about working on your RV. Any task you perform or product you purchase based on any information we provide is strictly at your own risk.
We sometimes receive products for evaluation at no cost, and The RVgeeks participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. But our opinions are our own, you won’t pay an extra penny, and we only link to products we personally use, love and can recommend to friends with complete confidence.
Comments welcome! Thanks for watching! Don't forget to subscribe! #RVLIFE #RVDIY #RVLIVING #FULLTIMERV #RVREPAIR #RVMAINTENANCE #RVMODS #RVUPGRADES #RVTRAVEL #DIYRV #RVGEEKS

[@DutchStar443]

You guys found the unicorn of RV service.

[@MrBillygoat]

As a owner operator over the road trucker for 25 years, I have been in way too many tire service centers. I have never ever seen anything that comes close to this type of service anywhere. I now own a Tiffin Phateon and wish it was not 1650 miles from here to Redlands. This video is informative and is professionally put together. This video should be watched by every RV owner, RV dealer and RV tire service center.

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks so much! Means a lot coming from a pro.

[@lolal1026]

Have to give a shout out to Purcell Tire in Albuquerque...recently had tire problem on the road which could have turned disastrous... after calling around with no luck contacted Purcell they took us right away.... showed us what was wrong which couldn't be seen from the outside...2 new tires & good customer service we're very happy RV'ers

[@RVHabit]

Wow that's incredible service. That is virtually non-existant here on the east coast. I can't think of any place even remotely close to offering that type of service. Thumbs up, Lou

[@joemarquez4390]

Great video! I have had suspension upgrades done on my new RV by Redlands Truck and RV. This video is spot on. I was surprised to see the tech cleaning my windshield when I came to pick it up. Also, when they checked my generator (I did not ask them to do this, or was it in for service), they informed me that there was NO OIL in it! This was on a brand new RV!! So much for the dealership. You get what you pay for here at RT&RV. Thank you Chris.

[@RVgeeks]

That’s great to hear, Joe! Redlands is an awesome shop.

[@scottjanney3636]

Excellent video after watching this I joined FMCA and replaced all 6 tires on my motorhome. Thanks again for the video!

[@latada2198]

This kind of service is very very rare and almost UNBELIEVABLE in this time period we are living in! This is a GREAT video! I’ve always been partial to Michelin tires but now I understand why. Thanks for sharing all your knowledge and adventures with us.

[@MentorMoments]

Wow, your experience with Redlands was very different from ours. They installed our BlueOx base plate and AirForce one brake system on our coach/toad but failed to Locktite the baseplate bolts or attach the safety cables that secure the baseplate to the frame. When this was discovered several of the baseplate bolts had backed off and the entire unit was at risk of detaching, allowing our tow car to go rogue. When contacted about this, Redlands did not seem at all concerns and offered only to have us bring the rig and toad in for them to correct the problem. They didn't seem to recognize/care that we were in Nova Scoria then, a good distance from the facility in California.

[@RVgeeks]

Sorry to hear about your experience, Ron. We know that even the best places can make mistakes. Since we're always on the go, too (full-time for 16 years), it's always a challenge when follow-up is needed and we're no longer in the area.

[@candacerivero]

RV Geeks - you have done it again! THE BEST video on tires and tire safety I have EVER seen. I will be sharing this link with my RV Driving School students. Well done gentlemen, well done!

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks so much Candace! Great to hear. 😊

[@Dadcam_Can]

Unbelievable service quality and attention to detail received during your visit there. Truly white glove level of performance. I wish more modern businesses would follow this model.

[@vikingtraveler2655]

Awesome job explaining about RV tires and alignment. Redlands RV certainly does amazing and very complete service.

[@gypsybelle4757]

I love the tire diagram. It really helped me wrap my brain around the rotation plan. So smart! And not having to replace aaaaaall the tires at once is a little kinder to my budget. Definitely creating my own version of the RV Geeks Tire Diary for my RV. And adding this business to my list! Quality service like that is worth a drive. 👍

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks so much Belle!! 😊

[@roydavis2242]

That's a new one to me. It's the first time I ever heard of the recommendation of ten years. I spent 30 yrs in the specialty tire ind. and have heard and read from dozens of sources that said RV tires should be changed every 5- 7 yrs.

[@billebest]

That’s what I heard too. It’s kind of reassuring that the manufacturer says 10 years. Mine are at 7 years and I wasn’t ready to spend the money replacing them this year. I’ll start saving up for a 10 year replacement.

[@RVgeeks]

Hi Roy! We've heard that many people replace tires more often due to recommendations like that, but we've always felt that nobody knows more about any tire than its manufacturer. We've had no problem following Michelin's guidelines (which include annual professional inspections after the first 5 years), and figure that a company their size would have enough lawyers on staff to tell them to specify a shorter life if they were opening themselves up to lawsuits! We're sure that other brands have their own specs, and of course if we ever switch brands, we'll follow those too.

[@SRSnure]

The service that Redlands provides is incredible. Since this video was done three years ago I wonder if you or other readers have found other tire service companies elsewhere in the country that offers the same level of service? Living in Ohio, southern CA is a long drive. 😊

[@Jim.Hummel]

This was actually fun to watch! I thought it was just going to go around and around, but you proved to have a good grip on the situation!

[@RVgeeks]

Can we get a rim shot, please?! 🥁😂

[@Jim.Hummel]

@@RVgeeks I presume that's a 22.5" rim shot!?!?!!? LOL...I'll never tire of these puns!

[@RVgeeks]

You’re good under pressure, Jim. Obviously gonna be a good year in the pun dept for you since you can really belt ‘em out. Tread lightly though. Puns don’t align with everyone’s idea of funny, if you catch our drift. We of course know it’s the highest form of humour. 😁

[@Jim.Hummel]

@@RVgeeks You definitely have the bead on good humor as your channel is a hub of delightful information. I'll steer everyone your way!

[@rvnut1133]

Wow! I am so impressed with their service and wish it was this way everywhere. And as always exquisite video information. Thank you guys and safe travels.

[@sgit1]

How easy and stress free it can be when you have the right people with the right tools doing the job . . . and . . . oh, I almost forgot, the right people making this presentation. It is even better watching while eating dark chocolate almonds, cherries, and blueberries!

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks so much, Scott! It would have been a lot better filming it with some of those treats handy, too! 😁

[@maxjr758]

One of , if not the most informative RV service videos I've ever seen ! Thanks, and Congratulations on another Outstanding Production. Hats off to Redlands Truck and RV Service ! Only wish I wasn't on the opposite coast from Redlands ! Maybe a Road trip is in order when it's time for tires.

[@davide8629]

Impressive service. I’ve never experienced such care with any of my vehicles. Thanks for sharing.

[@bobshaw4063]

WOW what amazing service you received during the tire change . Your coach is beautiful . It shows you take very good care of her . I'd love to travel with Ya's some time . The three of us have a few things in common . Keep in touch . Cherer Guys ! HUGS !

[@Windkisssed]

Excellent! As ALWAYS, you have provided thorough, informative video content that has helped ME understand more about maintaining my rig! Additionally you’ve presented it in a very entertaining format! Thanks Peter & John!! Lauri

[@niinjoosum]

Wow that’s service at whole other level.

[@PierreaSweedieCat]

Even though I do not have a rig, this was very interesting, educational, entertaining, and well produced. it was easy to watch. Thank you, Redlands, for taking good care of all your customers, not just our RV Geeks.

[@toddsimpson3953]

Great video guys. I see your previous bus experience showing through. Very similar to how we rotated tires through on our buses. It’s great to also see a competent alignment shop!

[@charlycheer]

That was a really great overhead shot of the repair shop and the RV pulling into it. I really enjoyed this video and the diagram exclamation of how you rotate the tires. Thanks! Very informative!

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks so much! Glad you liked it!

[@markehesse5000]

my gosh...how do you guys find these RV repair & maintenance places that are do dedicated and pay soooooo much attention to detail?? I mean really! this guys are excellent but I am sure I would never find anyone that could match their professionalism! fantastic video as always!!!

[@RVgeeks]

Hi Mark! Actually we DON’T always find RV shops like this one. That’s exactly why we’re so eager to share them when we do! We have been to more than our share of lousy RV shops over the years, so we’re eager to spread the word to support the ones that deserve it.

[@BrianGant1000]

We replaced all 6 tires on our class A in November...thank you FMCA for the discount! Saved a bundle!

[@RVgeeks]

It's even MORE worth it when replacing all 6, right?!?! 😉

[@BrianGant1000]

@@RVgeeks Abso-freaking-lutely!

[@16978832]

Great video. Happy to know that my local RV service facility makes the grade. As a customer. even I learned something about Redlands Truck & RV I didn't know.

[@mikedickey7903]

So thankful for your high-quality, highly-informative videos, guys. I've learned so much from you two. Sure appreciate all the time and effort that goes into these - God bless.

[@carpenterfamily6198]

I don’t care about the nitro so much, but that shop did the best work I’ve ever seen.

[@adamfischer7697]

Excellent video...I didn't realize how much is involved in a tire change.

[@stevewilson7838]

XLNT video as always. I was unaware of that service center in Redlands. Since I live in Yucca Valley its not that far for me to get there and I'm almost ready for new tires. Also, thank you for the FMCA membership info.

[@scenicdriveways6708]

When I needed 10 ply tires for my pickup truck I went and priced 4 of them at Plains Tire in Sheridan , WY . They would have cost over $750 for the 4 of them. But I waited until they had their big tire sale and got the same tires for $500 . Keep an eye on your tires and plan ahead so you can take advantage of sales.

[@OurJourneyInMyles]

Simply fantastic, information packed, and the "defacto way" we all need to keep up on our tires! This tire dealer needs to clone themselves, and put one in each state. Loved the elevated stationary camera shot of you guys pulling into the tire shop with the rig! You are good,......

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks so much Myles! BTW... that stationary camera was our new Mavic 2 Zoom, hovering perfectly still and unattended as we drove into the scene. 😊

[@joshprice1080]

What a great video, thanks so much for sharing. I am going full-time at the end of 2019/early 2020, so I am trying to soak up as much knowledge/info as possible. My rig will be a LUXE 42MD 5th wheel paired with an F-350, so I'll have to look and see what I can find on here as far as towable rig tire rotation/care. Thanks again for sharing.

[@RVgeeks]

Congrats on the impending full-time plan, Josh! 👍

[@lawrenceconstantine7735]

I have changed out tires on 18 wheelers back in the day with the sludge and spoon bars its what I called back-breaking work and no air compressor either big ass ratchet and slide a big ass pipe on that OLD SCHOOL BABY.

[@YodaAz58]

Man I hate to go all the way to Redlands to get my tires done but they are FIRST CLASS!

[@Dieferdan]

Excellent video gents, that's certainly some service! As you said, the tread may look plentiful but, if the rubber is deteriorating thru age & especially unable to check the inside walls of the tyres, particularly if they're up against a Duelly then you have no idea! Caravan/travel trailer tyres here in the UK are recommended to be changed every 5-8 years. With our ever changing climate. Cold, hot, wet, dry humid etc etc

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks so much, Dan. Great to hear from you! One thing we've heard from a number of tire tech we've spoken with is that they don't see tires deteriorate from the inside out, since the things that affect the rubber most (UV, contaminants, etc) are on the outside. That's always given us some peace of mind that if the outside is in great shape the inside probably is too. 😊

[@Dieferdan]

Also, using a decent high quality tyre dressing helps too 😉

[@RVgeeks]

Aerospace 303!!! 👍😁

[@misconceptionindustries2968]

Very smart putting steers on tag because the stars an the tag see the most uneven wear!

[@danielkofman4592]

Wow! Great service they provide.

[@RVgeeks]

We were duly impressed, Daniel!

[@Nighthorsecases]

Been watching for years..Good job guys..!

[@ronmcdaniel1583]

Incredible service! Thanks for sharing!!

[@digzdirt]

Michelin's are hands down the very best Especially "low pros" followed by Yokohama in my own experience between Vegas and Phoenix every day for five years, people say Goodyear but I blew two brand new installed in Phoenix halfway back to Vegas.. that was goodbye goodyear for me!

[@tdav225]

Wow. What a shop. Definitely on my list. Great video as usual.

[@smacdiesel]

I've used Redlands RV for all my service needs. They are the best!!!!!!!

[@RVgeeks]

Great to hear! Thanks for sharing. 👍

[@2012spacetraveler]

WOW, you guys do such a great job - it's too bad folks just want drama otherwise this video would have hundred thousand views.

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks for the support! We just put it up this morning, so maybe 100K might happen. 😉

[@3pRanchTx]

I live about 50 miles from Redlands Truck & RV. I have never used them but I’ve heard good things about them, your video confirms that. I just had all six Michelin’s replaced on my DP. I used Pete’s Road Service in Fontana, they also participate in the FMCA tire program, but I did not enjoy the same experience that you did. They did not have the tire removal equipment you showed, they laid my wheels on the ground and used pry bars, scratching my beautiful wheels in the process. Horrible experience overall. Pete’s corporate office would not return my phone call, I warned others via RV Service Reviews. I personally don’t like wheel weights so I opted for ceramic balancing beads, I had them in my old tires as well. Now that you’ve converted to nitrogen, you won’t be able to use that cool Viair compressor you have, LOL!

[@RVgeeks]

Hi Craig. Sorry to hear about your experience with Pete’s. It just so happens that we had dinner tonight with the friends we mentioned in the video who recommended Redlands. They had used Pete’s as well and had those little sandbag balancers put into the tires. But Pete’s failed to install the correct valve stems with a little cages on them to protect the stems from getting clogged with sand. Of course the trouble started when they checked tire pressure and could not stop the air from coming out. It took them a while to get the problem fixed, and they told us they would never go back to Pete’s either. We also had one of our front rims scratched at another place, just like you did. Good shops are like hen’s teeth, but great to find.

[@RVgeeks]

Oh yeah..... we may be anal, but we’re not about to quit using our fantastic compressor just to keep a near 100% nitrogen mixture! We have every intention of using it as needed! 😁

[@bruceh3786]

Air is already 78% nitrogen so even going near pure nitrogen is not a big change if even noticeable. Did you have near pure nitrogen in the tires before? If not, it will be interesting to hear if you notice any difference after some time. I got some trailer tires from Costco which fills with nitrogen and did not notice anything different.

[@donjohnston3776]

Michelin are the best hands down. They were good enough for the space shuttles.

[@RonInAVan]

Great video on the tires, after watching this video I went over to the wear house and looked at my tire dates, the rear must be the Original tires from 2004...15 years old and the front tires is from 2014....5 years old. The tires in the back still look like new, I don’t see any cracks on the side of the tires. I think I am going to take a chance driving the motorhome to Oregon this summer and back on these tires and then next season switch them all out. Wish me luck.... thanks for the sharing this video

[@RVgeeks]

At least your front tires are only 5 years old, Ron. But if it were us, we'd replace the rears. 15 years is inviting catastrophe. Just our $.02.

[@RonInAVan]

RVgeeks not sure what I will do just yet, just got back from 3 mouths in the Arizona Desert. We won’t be heading up the Oregon coast till June. I will take the motorhome to my tire guy and see what they think. I trust them, they kept my big rigs rolling for over 30 years, and Knock knock on wood had very few tire problems. Although I would hate to have some blowouts out on the road away from home cost more money. Thank You!!

[@RVgeeks]

Good plan!! 👍

[@wrzl1675]

The DOT & Date # are always lined up with the valve stem because that’s your “ go to” balance point and has zero to do with anything else, period. If it can’t be balanced at that point you air down and spin the tire on the rim 90 degrees and air back up and rebalance and that’s a clear sign your new tires are junk. This also applies to passenger cars as well. It had nothing to do with convenience. I don’t know how old this video is but Nitrogen is really bad for tires because it speeds up dry rot and we’ve known this for about 5+ years now.

[@bruceh3786]

Randy.... are you associated with the Carlisle Tire organization? I have never noticed a difference with nitrogen in the tires.

[@RVgeeks]

Until now, we have never had a single tire shop give a hoot about which way the valve stem lined up, or which side it faced for that matter, and we've never had a balance issue. Michelin, Goodyear, Dunlop, Continental, Bridgestone and Goodrich all officially support the use of nitrogen. Please site your sources that it's "really bad" for tires. Links please.

[@DLTJR1959]

Works great if all tires are the same size. My coach had larger tires installed on the front for a recall.

[@RVgeeks]

That’s true, OBW! If you have different size tires on any of your axles, you can’t use our rotation schedule.

[@tigre2299]

I love the oranges, nice touch!

[@donleamon8653]

Great video and information as always guys! Enjoyed your interview and behind the scenes chat with JD of BTBRV last month as well. Since I work for Discount Tire Corp. the only thing I'd question is the use of nitrogen. We used to offer that as a service, but we've found that its use is not very beneficial vs. the cost unless you're competitively racing. Additionally, you'll be challenged to find it available to top off the tires in the future. In other words, if it is an up-sale, it is not worth it. - don -

[@RVgeeks]

Hi Don! Thanks so much for the comment and the shout out to our appearance with JD! As far as N2... While we're not sold on the idea that nitrogen is essential, it is supposed to be better, and it's just what Redlands uses as standard operating procedure (no up-sell.... we didn't "opt" for it), the same as when Costco installs new tires on our car. While we're well-known to be pretty anal retentive about a lot of things, we do have to let some things go... such as worrying about how absolutely pure the N2 is. So we'll continue using our wonderful Viair compressor as needed! 😊

[@HereThenGone]

Great videos guys!! We are about to get all 6 new Michelin tires and have a full chassis service before we hit the road. Hopefully the shop 45 min from our home town is as thorough as Redlands.

[@maureentweedly]

Whoa....just learned tons....thx for sharing!

[@jeffbranning144]

Excellent and very nice informative video as usual! Thank you for sharing!! Safe travels guys!!

[@vkmccable]

WOW! Makes me want to leave WI and have these guys do some work for us. Thanks!

[@piushorning4869]

something I haven't given much thought to. thanks for the information and great to know you have an option for getting cheaper tires. what service you can get from this company. amazing customer service

[@douglamp178]

Great vid. Wish we could find a place like that here in Fl.

[@RVgeeks]

We hear you, Doug! Finding quality, reliable service locations can be one of the hardest things about RV ownership! Hope you find someplace great!

[@piushorning4869]

man this video was very interesting. I forgot I had watched it before so I got to be informed twice. at my age forgetting is sometimes a blessing. LOL

[@RVgeeks]

😂

[@dice12tx]

Great video. And how you got around that truck to get in your RV spot at the end of the video deserves an award!!!! Lol.....

[@Love2basket]

So informative! Exactly why we continue to follow you guys and support you through Patreon!

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks so much for the kind words, Denise, and your support, too! 😊

[@MikkosAdventure]

Great info! I also have an RV KZbin channel, so I'm super excited to see what the collagues are doing. Subbed your channel!

[@LibbyWebbp]

Great video! Thanks for sharing your RVing experience with us.

[@elysianfields6350]

I had the installer put 303 on the inside and outside of the tire before installation on the rim.

[@randykunath.afterbbn]

Excellent tech. Video definitely a Class A shop !

[@Myksgarage]

Great job on the video, very thorough

[@jabbagna4237]

Excellent service and video.....

[@AdventuresWithMe00]

Excellent video. I learned a lot and I doubt I'll ever own a Class A. I'm not sure why 13 people would give thumbs down...

[@bruceh3786]

Excellent job on the video. They look to have the right equipment for the job and people trained to do it right. Ten years is a long time for tire life. I suspect it works for you because you take good care of your tires and you keep them out of hot climates by following the weather. I live in the desert so the tires of my travel trailer are subject to a lot of heat. I had a set of Goodyear OEM branded tires that were deteriorating on the inside of the tire at six years, most likely due to heat aging. I changed them due to the age and caught it just in time before any blowouts. Maybe the large motor home tires have better longer life rubber compounds than trailer ST tires. As a desert dweller, I do not go over six years on car or trailer tires. Seems there is at least one story a summer of a fatal rollover resulting from a blowout. It is common during the desert hot summer to see vehicles pulled over on the side with a blown out tire.

[@RVgeeks]

Hi Bruce! Thanks for the comments. The desert sun and heat surely does reduce lifespan. Different brands and types of tires have different maximum lifespans, too. Travel trailer tires are surely less than our big 295s, and Michelin is likely longer than Goodyear (although we'd have to check that to be sure, since we've never had Goodyears). And always be sure to check the manufacturers recommendations.

[@srperk6163]

How in the world did you find such a service oriented shop. They are a long way from Indiana for a tire change but it would be a fun trip.

[@jimbeamairstreams8455]

Thank you for all of your informed videos. Warm hugs to both Deborah

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks Deborah! 😊

[@MagaRickn]

Wish there was a place like that in Texas! But at $1,000 per tire for Michelins, you better have a good check book! ;) I can only afford Toyo tires. :)

[@dougd9944]

Thank you both, :)

[@dodgeguyz]

Everyone “oohing and aahing” over this service. You won’t be so amazed once you get the bill! Yes it’s great service, but it comes at an even greater price!

[@RVgeeks]

In our 16 years on the road, we've found that finding good quality service is a challenge, despite the fact that we've paid handsomely many times. We generally find three types: Lower quality at lower prices, higher quality at higher prices, or lower quality at higher prices. That last one is the most infuriating, and unfortunately all too common. We don't mind paying for quality work. Just provide the service expected at your price point.

[@dodgeguyz]

RVgeeks I agree completely. It’s just that the majority of RV’ers are sticker shocked when it comes to properly maintaining their coach.

[@iggykonrad8368]

It can be frustrating to find the date on each tire as they are often on the side that is under the coach. With dual tire you can bet they are between the tire and almost impossible to see. My understanding is that the DOT does not require date codes on both sides of the tire. Wish they would change that.

[@RVgeeks]

Even before we discovered Redlands, which is the first shop we've ever seen that pays any attention to the location of the DOT dates, we would always ask to see the dates and positions of each tire being mounted and make note of it for our service records. Once they mount them on the duals facing the other tire, good luck. And no, the DOT does not require it on both sides. 😒

[@ckrk7824]

Wow what awesome service, anyone know of a similar place near Western NY? As usual another awesome Geeks video, thanks guys.

[@RVgeeks]

Sorry we don't know of a place in the Northeast, but hopefully someone else will reply with a recommendation for you.

[@jenfugit7801]

Revisiting this video to look at your rotation schedule and glad to see you still respond to comments. I have a 2015 24' Class C, purchased in 2017. In 2019 I damaged a front tire on a trip and once returned I chose to purchase two new tires for the front and start rotation every few years until I had replaced all tires and could start on a longer rotation schedule. So here we are in 2022, I have 3yr old fronts, and 7yr old dual wheels on the back (and a 7yr old spare). I want to take the 3yr old fronts and put them on the back, but would you recommend putting on the inside or outside? Or should I just invest and replace all four of the dual tires at once and have a rotation schedule of two front, four back? None are showing any significant wear on tread or being weathered. Would like to hear your thoughts! Thank you as always!

[@RVgeeks]

Hi Jen! We like having the newest tires up front, the way you do now, so the problem with replacing all four duals and leaving the current front tires in place is that it means the older tires are now up front. But the problem with taking the current front tires, and moving them to the rear is that you'd be pairing each of them with an older tire, which isn't acceptable. (All tires on both sides of a given axle should be replaced together). So we'd go with the replacing all four duals, leaving the older tires up front, and be vigilant with annual tire inspections, and you should be good to go.

[@jenfugit7801]

@@RVgeeks Thank you so much for the guidance, and damnit I wanted an answer that said I only needed to purchase two new tires! LOL

[@RVgeeks]

Sorry ‘bout that Jen! 😂

[@lezbriddon]

rubber starts degrading at 5yrs, 10yrs its well on its way out, applies to engine hoses too

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks Lez. We not only take extremely good care of our tires, but we follow Michelin's recommendations and requirements to the letter, including annual professional inspections every year past year 5. If they pass muster, we go another year to the next inspection.

[@benwatters9240]

Great video. I hope I can find a shop that does this kind of work in my area. Thanks!

[@mnmandthegang]

WOW, excellent service, thanks for the great info

[@Technorv]

Excellent video!

[@FrenchEros]

Excellent video. Thank you. I would like to ask you a question on another topic, if I may. Would you be given the option today, would you change the RV motor home type that you are using presently? Would you choose another Class A Diesel 45 ft, would it be another Newmar, would it be a Class C or the shorter New Aire type? I’m in the market of buying a RV and since I greatly appreciate your expertise, I was interested in knowing your choice after being full time RVers for so many years. Thank you ahead of time for your reply.

[@RVgeeks]

Hi Michel. Thanks for your kind words. While we love our 43' Mountain Aire (it's treated us very well and has been our home for 14 years), if we had to do it over again, we'd go smaller. And, since our Newmar has treated us so well all these years, we'd want to do that in another Newmar! With the addition of 35' floorplans to the 2020 model year for the New Aire, it's definitely getting even MORE interesting to us. That little bit of extra length is allowing them to include a king size bed, which is a must have for us. And the New Aire is the only short diesel pusher that we know of that offers the same level of creature comforts and luxury that we're used to in our Mountain Aire (with the perk of having 14+ years of technological upgrades built right in, too). We got our Mountain Aire when we sold our 39' Fleetwood Bounder Diesel because we thought we wanted all the extra space. And, don't get us wrong, it's been nice. But this large an RV means we are restricted from going into many of the National Park campgrounds we love the most. We thought we'd be OK with that, since we did a lot of that in our Bounder. But we miss it. And while John is OK with driving the RV when needed (highway driving he's totally fine with, but tight local roads start getting stressful), he'd be much more comfortable in something under 39'. 35' to 36' is about our sweet-spot for being large enough to be comfortable in it (even full-timing... and particularly the New Aire which seems to have really maximized the availability of basement storage space for that short a wheelbase), but small enough to be easier-to-handle and able to fit into MANY more campgrounds. Now... if only we could afford one! LOL!

[@FrenchEros]

RVgeeks Thank you so much for your quick reply. Your answer helped me more than you might’ve expected. I sincerely hope that our paths cross some day. Just like you are, we are Canadians and Americans. Until next time, take great care of yourselves.

[@SDClassicCarCenter]

Great video guys!! That's valuable info that you've provided yet again!

[@competitionkarting]

I was just going to comment on the great drone shot when I saw the credit to Mortons. Nice work!

[@RVgeeks]

Go Tom! 😃

[@bikefreakstl]

Great video as always

[@laurennedouglas6734]

We are at this minute parked in Redlands Truck and RV's little campground with the orange trees waiting for them to replace our tires tomorrow morning! We have been speaking with Mike and he is recommending that we install an internal Tire Pressure Monitoring system. Right now we are using the EEZ system and it has been finicky for us. What are your thoughts on an internal system. Will miss you on the Patreon channel, but looking forward to seeing you at the RVillage Rally! Happy 2020!

[@RVgeeks]

Hi Laurenne! Tell Mike and the team we say "Hi!" We've heard about the Valor TPMS system (and saw it while we were at Redlands last year). It comes very highly rated (and may even be the factory-standard system supplied on new Newmars & Entegras... but we haven't confirmed that, yet). We likely would have considered getting the Valor system IF we had been having ALL of our tires replaced... since they need to be broken down to install the sensors onto the wheels. Since we weren't, we skipped it. But, ironically, the system we DID get is the EEZ Tire unit. We haven't had a single drop-out or false alarm in the more-than-a-year that we've been using it. So we're curious about what's been "finicky" for you with it? Our system came with the repeater, which we installed in the rear closet in the bedroom, and it's never dropped a tire! If the Valor system is in your price-range, you can't beat the convenience of having it permanently installed... although we'd wonder about battery life and the difficulty of replacing them should they need it, since the tire would have to be broken down to get to it! Let us know what you decide! And see you at the RVillage Rally in February!!

[@RVgeeks]

@Laurenne Douglas... so great to chat with you tonight at RVillage. Went online after we talked... and you should check out pages 32 and 33 on this PDF: www.valortpms.com/sites/default/files/Valor-TPMS-Gauge-UserManual-6.75x5%28web%29.pdf We think either the contrast or backlight settings are likely to solve your trouble with reading the Valor TPMS display during the daytime.

[@dalemobley6671]

Wow! Great information! You guys rock as usual!!

[@iggykonrad8368]

Second comment. Nitrogen? Does that mean you no longer need the Viair? If a tire drops pressure while you are boon docking how are you able to deal with this? I assume you don't want to add regular air to a nitrogen filled tire. Here's hoping this never happens but in an RV any this is possible.

[@RVgeeks]

There isn't anything in this world that will get us to give up our Viair, Iggy!! Nitrogen or not, if our tires need pressure, we're filling 'em with the Viair. As others have said... atmospheric air is already 78% Nitrogen. 😉

[@iggykonrad8368]

That's what I thought but thought I'd better check to be sure. Travel safe.

[@airforcedad7398]

Very informative video!! Thank you guys.

[@michelleday6876]

Anyone know of a shop on the west coast of Florida that comes anywhere close to this level of service? I’m in need before we hit the road.

[@Badgeweefixstuff]

That’s a awesome video very well done 👍 awesome as always 🛠🛠🛠🇨🇦🇨🇦

[@montegb2951]

Why did you choose static balancing instead of balance beads? I replaced steers last year, and went with the beads. Did I miss something?

[@RVgeeks]

Great question, Monte! In the 16 years we’ve been full-timing, we’ve only ever had our tires spin balanced (not static balancing, which we haven't seen in years)… and haven’t had any problems with ride or tire wear. So we haven’t seen the need to do anything else, and don’t have any problem to fix. We know that lots of people have used beads/Centramatics in place of the traditional balancing with lead weights and are happy with them. If we had ever had a problem, we would surely have sought out an alternative option.

[@adiedri38]

As always excellent and extremely insightful full.

[@bosshilf]

That place is awesome!!!

[@Sam-M7]

The fierce two strike again!

[@ronniecardy]

FMCA Not available in my area Last time I talked to them

[@RVgeeks]

Sorry to hear, Ronnie.

[@fwagoner]

Thanks for the great and informative video as usual!!

[@raymondmcdonald7085]

Hey guys, another greatly informative glimpse into your stellar maintenance program. Can you tell me the make, model and size of your tires? My 05 KSDP 3910 is coming due for new rubber and I really like the Michelin brand. Next step: join FMCA. BTW, just curious since yours is the same vintage did your coach get the exterior checking in the fiberglass? I know for awhile Newmar was addressing this. Thanks 😊

[@RVgeeks]

Hi Raymond! Our rig came with Michelin XZA2 Energy 295/80R22.5 tires, and that exact size and model is all we’ve ever used. Yours are almost certainly a bit smaller.... probably 275 instead. Join FMCA to get the tire discount for sure. It’s worth every penny! Unfortunately, we do indeed have checking on the fiberglass, but not much we can do about it at this point other than a repaint job. It’s not bad enough to warrant that, so we’re just living with it.

[@raymondmcdonald7085]

@@RVgeeks Yeah, I get it. It's a shame it happened to so many. The good thing is the integrity hasn't been compromised. Are your tires 14 ply? Mine are coming up on 8 years and still look great. Do the take offs have any value? I would think some sort of re- purpose would exist. Construction equipment maybe?

[@RVgeeks]

@@raymondmcdonald7085 Not sure how many ply or if they have value when we’re done with them, but we’ve been able to run 10 full years on them, the max Michelin recommends.

[@donnasapp3465]

Always like all the detailed information you share. Just watched a video on the new 2020 New Air 35 ft with king bed so when are you getting yours?😄

[@RVgeeks]

You had us going there for a minute, Donna! We think you mean NEW Aire, right? We just saw that video on the 35' New Aire 3545 and we're getting more interested in New Aire all the time. 35' is our target length., Now we just need the right floorplan. 😉 Thanks so much for the tip. This is the first we've seen it. 🤗

[@donnasapp3465]

Opps yep new air

[@RVgeeks]

If we get one of those 35-footers, you know we’re holding you responsible, right? 😂