QuestionI have checked my Titanium 2002 RV in storage and find I have small side wall cracks appearing on all tires,they are always covered when not used (UV) but I am just preparing for a trip to South Carolina from Ontario Canada.Is it best to replace all tires prior to the trip.
Any help is appreciated.
Alan
AnswerAlan,
Cracking is the natural result of the degradation of the rubber. It is a combination of stress and the state of the rubber. Some cracking is to be expected - even if the tires are properly cared for. However, any shortcoming in tire maintenance is going to show up first as cracking, then as a tire failure.
There have been a series of advisors from tire manufacturers stating that tires deteriorate due strictly due to age. My take on these is that if you live in a hot climate (CA, AZ, NM, NV, TX and FL) the limit is 6 years. Cold climates (MT, MN, ND, WI, etc) would be 10 years. States in between are .... ah ..... in between.
Is it best to replace them? Yes, but there is a price to be paid. If you don't replace them, there is a risk.
My advice would be to have someone knowledgeable look at the tires and make an assessment as to their suitability.
