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I've got the ST235-80R16 Westlake tires on my Solitude. Just beginning our 3rd season with the same tires. So far they've been great. Still plenty of tread and they hold air great. Well one was a little low, so I was airing it up this morning -- and that's when I noticed the cracks in the tire sidewall. See below:
I've done a web-search, and there's more than one source that opines this conclusion:
"The outer layer of rubber on the sidewall is simply a sealing layer to keep the elements away from the inner (structural) part of the tire—in other words, those unsightly cracks are purely cosmetic. If your tires start to get really deep cracks after 3-5 years, you might consider replacing them for peace of mind. If you haven't worn out a set of tires in 5-8 years, it's worth replacing them for safety's sake, even if there is still good tread left on the tires.
It is important to note that recreational vehicles—like your VW camper, maybe?—are more subject to tire cracking than everyday drivers. Long periods of "sitting" causes the rubber to dry out, and when you take your camper out for a drive, the rubber "splits" as it gets worked on the road. Again, this is nothing to worry about unless the cracks are exceptionally deep.
The bottom line is this: In almost every case we've seen, you do not need to worry—you just need to get out and camp!"
Does anyone disagree?
Also, I've never covered my RV tires to prevent UV exposure. I've always thought that to be the RV aftermarket industry just trying to get more money from me. Almost no one covers their car and truck tires. . .
-Steve
I've done a web-search, and there's more than one source that opines this conclusion:
"The outer layer of rubber on the sidewall is simply a sealing layer to keep the elements away from the inner (structural) part of the tire—in other words, those unsightly cracks are purely cosmetic. If your tires start to get really deep cracks after 3-5 years, you might consider replacing them for peace of mind. If you haven't worn out a set of tires in 5-8 years, it's worth replacing them for safety's sake, even if there is still good tread left on the tires.
It is important to note that recreational vehicles—like your VW camper, maybe?—are more subject to tire cracking than everyday drivers. Long periods of "sitting" causes the rubber to dry out, and when you take your camper out for a drive, the rubber "splits" as it gets worked on the road. Again, this is nothing to worry about unless the cracks are exceptionally deep.
The bottom line is this: In almost every case we've seen, you do not need to worry—you just need to get out and camp!"
Does anyone disagree?
Also, I've never covered my RV tires to prevent UV exposure. I've always thought that to be the RV aftermarket industry just trying to get more money from me. Almost no one covers their car and truck tires. . .
-Steve
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