As the use of caravans is largely seasonal, it is vital that the condition
of the tyres is checked, as degradation or cracking of the sidewall
can result from prolonged inactivity. Tyres do degrade over time
and trailer caravan tyres that are more than 7 years old should be
replaced. Like cars, the minimum legal tread depth for trailers or
caravans is 1.6mm throughout the central 75% of the tread width,
around the tyre's entire circumference.
Furthermore, research has shown that tyre pressures of
both the towing vehicle and caravan are often overlooked,
with under or over inflation severely affecting the behaviour
and stability of the combination. The correct inflation
should always be checked from cold in order to ensure the
highest degree of accuracy, and be proportional to the
load of the caravan. Incorrect pressures result in both
increased tyre wear, a higher output of CO2 emissions,
and reduced fuel economy.
Others aspects of tyre care frequently overlooked include
the spare tyre which must be checked and adjusted to the
same pressure to that of the caravan. It is also important
to ensure that all tyres are of the same construction across
each axle. TyreSafe recommends that manufacturer instructions
should be consulted where possible, and motorists are strongly
encouraged to spend time ensuring the safety of their vehicles
before setting out on a long journey. It could make all
the difference to a successful or ruined holiday.
To view the latest Caravan Tyres and Your Safety leaflet,
reproduced with the kind permission of the British Tyre
Manufacturers Association, please log on to www.tyresafe.org
For further press information please contact either Chris
Wakley or Simon Wittenberg, TyreSafe, 21-25 St Anne's Court,
London, W1F 0BJ
Tel: +44 (0)20 7734 6363
Mobile: +44 (0)7970 674612
Email: cwakley at automotivepr.com |
