Yahoo Message Number: 1926 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/1926)
I am coming to the conclusion that I am running with over inflated tires and need to get the coach weighed, balanced and re calculate the tire pressures.
Until I take the coach out and carry out this project can anyone share what pressures they are running with the 12R22.5 tires on a forty foot Intrigue.
Thanks,
David & Karen,
2000 CC Intrigue 11062
40 ft. Gourmet on the Road
Yahoo Message Number: 1927 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/1927)
D&K,
We just had an alignment and also had our tires rotated (50,000 miles) by a respected tire and alignment in company in Fort Wayne (a major trucking city). Technician (regarded plausible by skeptical me) recommended decal pressures shown alongside the VIN. This what we had previously maintained them at. We are Intrigue 11066 (g-o-t-r) and thus are probably quite similar to your vehicle.
Peter
Britannia Inc.
800-274-5245
Yahoo Message Number: 1928 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/1928)
We have a 2000 36 foot Allure
with the 12 R Tires built July 2000. It has a 13,200 lb. front axle and 19,000 lb. rear axle rating (In 2001 the same rear axle, wheel and tires are rated at 20,000). We were at an FMCA rally this weekend and had our Coach weighed there. It had full fuel, full water and the basement storage compartments are pretty full of tools, equipment, spare engine oil, transmission fluid, anti-freeze, air compressor, BBQ. etc. and too much other stuff that we don't need. The form with the weight information is in the Coach in storage, but if I remember correctly, the front axle was weighted at about 11,300 lb and the rear weighted 18,750 lb. I run at 92 to 95 psi, which is more than I need according to the Toyo tire chart., but it gives me a decent ride and good handling at that pressure.
Dick
Yahoo Message Number: 1929 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/1929)
I'm not sure why, but my '02 Intrigue was delivered with tires at maximum pressure. 120 psi on front, 110 psi on rear duals, and 120 psi on tag axle. I guess they are playing it safe in case the customer loads it up? I have since dropped them down about 10% all the way around.
Rob
'02 Intrigue - #11480
Yahoo Message Number: 1935 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/1935)
Anyone who has not had a 4 point weight check should run their tires at 120 pds. That is what CCI tells you. Thats because you can't depend on the weight of the front end to be equal on each wheel. If one wheel is heavier then the other you need to inflate to the higher amount. That's why you need 120 pd until you have this done. Several years ago American Eagle and CCI had a problem with this and they replaced front tires that came from the factory below 120. They also reconfigured the weight distribution. AE had 5 deaths from low tire pressure on a heavy front driver's side. Bill G.
Yahoo Message Number: 1938 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/1938)
I was at a rally where CC personnell said just that. The owner was instructed to weigh his coach and decrease air based on his actual weight as soon as he had it weighed.
Sincerely
George W Becker
gwb36@... (gwb36@...) 1999 Country Coach Intrigue #10700
Yahoo Message Number: 5117 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5117)
Joe,
I don't believe any tire manufacturer recommends you run the tires at 75#. That's is to low, it give you no margin for a drop in pressure. I'm surprised your coach weight is that low.
Bill G. 2001 Magna #5998
Yahoo Message Number: 5120 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5120)
Bill,
I was shocked, too. Remember this is the same CCI that looked at the steering twice before and could not find any thing wrong. They left the 4 point weighing results in the coach to show me how they came up with the 75#. I did notice when they heat up the pressure goes up into the 80's. Les Schwab in Seaside, OR told me they did a lot of commercial tires of my size and type and would NOT lower the front pressure below 100. CCI said I was riding a rail at that pressure and lowered them all to 75, so who would know better. I am positive I do not. However, one main reason we bought CC was because we could get factory service. If we ignore their advice, or fixes, what was the point? We might as well go back to surly, uncooperative dealerships. If you know what I mean.
Joe and Patti
Allure 03 30854
Yahoo Message Number: 5122 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5122)
It's always interesting..... Schwab (Les... not Charles) set my rear tires at 95. The chart called for 90 but they said they like to see a 5 lbs cushion.
When I discussed tire pressure and Smart Tire at the CC factory they suggested that I go to Schwab.
Dick May
2002 Intrigue, #11438
"The problem with doing nothing is not knowing when you are finished."
Yahoo Message Number: 5124 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5124)
Hi Joe & Patti,
75lbs sounds a bit low for a 32'. 85 lbs cold sounds more normal.
The ideal situation for any coach would be to have it weighed (4 corner) as you are using it with the fuel and water tank full, and you guys in it. Then you can use the tire chart to determine your specific requirements and add 5 lbs. The 4 corner sheet you get with your coach is a dry weight.
Good Luck,
Damon
Yahoo Message Number: 5126 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5126)
We agree with you, but CCI filled it with Diesel, and water and had at least one person in the coach when they weighed it. I guess it's possible they didn't follow all the procedures, but they did weigh it with all the liquids full, ie wet weight.
Thanks for your help tho,
Also, we bought our coach from Guaranty and have been very happy with your service, ad the whole experience.
Yahoo Message Number: 5127 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5127)
It seems that the whole tire pressure thing is confusing and upsetting to some of us. I certainly know it was for Chris and I.
I too went the way of 75# and just about killed us. At the risk of incurring the wrath of some of the group's members with engineering skills, I'll give you my take. Incidentally I have a 40" 2000 Intrigue-single kitchen slide #11142:
As those of us who follow auto racing know, the flex in the side wall of the tire actually becomes part of the suspension of the rig and contributes to "spring rate". The joker in the deck, on our rigs, is the CC air ride system. It is very simple in design and concept, but tricky to get tuned. At first, I incorrectly assumed that the air bags would work in concert with the tire pressure: Softer tires = Softer air bags. NOT SO!!! The softer the tires are, the more active the air valves become. The travel of the actuator arms increases with softer tires, adding more air to the bags as tire pressure goes down (I THINK???)
As I pondered this, I decided to talk to the tech guy at TOYO. He confirmed my suspicions that high tire pressures are a good thing on a CC. I settled on 115# in the front and 92# in the back with my Toyos. I now have Michelin XZ2's on the front and I am running 120# in them. A variation I tried is an old trucker trick to run the inside tires on the back 5# lower. It cushions the effect of the ruts (especially on I-5!!!). I ran 90# on the inside and 95# on the outside for a while with a minimal increase in performance. At the risk of being repetitive, it is WAY important to get the front shocks set on the firmest setting. My rig was bottoming out at one time.
If I am allowed a comment about CC service, I will say that they did alot of work on my coach at the end of 12 months and were very generous and concerned about helping me work the bugs out.
HOWEVER, the suspension are is one area where they seem to have a company line that is not based on real world experience. If I had to venture a guess, they err on the side of a softer ride and set the coach up for drivers who tow and and stay around 55-60 MPH all of the time. As those of us who drive in the Southwest know, you can get run over doing this!!! I have talked to many sales people who have sold coaches for years. They all say that it is incumbent on the buyer to "tune" the ride.
I was ready to give up when Damon pumped me up and motivated me to approach the issues around the coach is a less emotional manner. I think I finally came to understand that it owned me and not the other way around: I have the dubious pleasure of shelling out time and money any time it decides to consume some. I have dicussed this with boat owners and they laugh and share their stories.
At this point, I am convinced is CC is by far the best value in the luxury MH category. The design, materials, and fabrication workmanship are unmatched within a very wide price band (maybe Marathon is slightly stronger with their Prevost conversions).
If I decide to buy another coach, it will proably be from a CC owner who has given up on the nagging little problems and is dumping the unit. I am now confident that I could ferret out the problems and get them fixed - using outside service providers, not CC (unless there is warranty left on remove and replace items).
One final thought: the TOYOs are safe up to 240 degrees and 200 PSI.
Once again CC has an over-engineering margin that provides longevity for the coach and safety fo us.
Chuck Gauthier
La Quinta, CA (every day 100+, Northwest--here we come)
Yahoo Message Number: 5128 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5128)
Hey,
Thanks for a very honest and informative email. Our rig is 32' and so very responsive. I have worked very hard to understand the steering and make sure I don't oversteer. I still am not sure if they/we have it right, but lowering the pressure seemed to help. I haven't started working on the suspension yet.
Joe and Patti Frazier
Yahoo Message Number: 5129 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5129)
It amuses me that you guys are having he same problems with a 32". I convinced myself that a shorter coach would eliminate the problems we were having and considered buying one.
If you want to gamble $1000.00 on a shortcut to better handling, I would suggest the Micelin XZ2 steering tires. They have a very different pattern on the side of the tread designed to make the rig track. Toyo's (on the other hand) have a "scalloped" edge on them. I think the Toyo design is just too "grippy" for the highly responsive steering built into our coaches. Jon at Les Schwab is a key manager there and is very active in interfacing with CC and CC owners. He will give you a good price.
Two other easy adjustments are to 1) set the rear ride height at the tallest setting and the front at the lowest creating as much of a forward "rake" as possible, and 2) get the front end aligned.
As I mentioned before my rig was bottoming out and I did have a bent tie rod end as a result --- worth checking out!!
Regards, Chuck Gauthier
40" Intrigue 11142 (2000)
Yahoo Message Number: 5131 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5131)
Chuck,
I agree with you 100%, especially on the tire pressure. We run ours the same as you and we did that from the start. We have put over 60k on 2 CCs and have never had a tire problem and we never see high tire temps on our Smart Tire system. We also have a policy that at 5 years the tires go regardless of how good they look. Everyone I know who has had a blow out has had it in their 6th year of tire life, unless they are running their tires at low pressures. That was a great note.
Bill G. 2001 Magna #5998
Yahoo Message Number: 5133 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5133)
Thanks Chuck,
Your suggestions are sound advice. I just wished I could get them done for free. Oh well, If pigs could fly....maybe they'd drive country coaches. ha ha....
Yahoo Message Number: 5134 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5134)
We left our 36' Allure [new] with the factory today. Much of the discussion was about the poor handling. I must say that both Jim Cooley and Mike Scott were very supportive. Mike attributes most handing problems to height. I'm still skeptical. Regarding the tires, we never use Toyo on the front of trucks for exactly this reason. The Michelins have solved similar problems. We just haven't changed them yet because CC should try to fix it first. Regardless of their improvements, the Toyos will come off.
We have left our tire pressures as set at the factory, 110 front and 120 rear. We are also skeptical that lowering the pressure will make them track less.
Yahoo Message Number: 5135 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5135)
Mike Scott worked on ours for about 3 weeks. He did a lot of different things, We had the ride height adjusted. The R.O. showed that they changed it, although they never told us up or down. They checked it by driving and did not recommend a front end alignment, instead the weighed all four corners, and lowered the pressure. It did help some. I found Mike to be very helpful, although some of the techs who worked on the coach were definitely taking short cuts that he was not aware of until AFTER we took delivery. Our advice after trying twice to pick it up? Do not leave the parking lot/camp ground until you have verified that the repairs you asked for were completed. It saves a lot of headaches down the road. Overall, we still like CCI much better than winnebago or fleetwood.
Yahoo Message Number: 5138 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5138)
Doug,
If you press CCI hard enough they will change the Toyo's on the front to Michllin steer tires. They did it on my Magna. We did not have a handling problem but we had a wear problem on the edge of the toyos. They replaced them at 15k.
From what I have learned the Toyos were made as an off the road tire for large dump trucks. They have a great side wall and thats why so many rv manuf. install them. however they are not a great steer tire. The Michilins are a softer riding tire(side walls not as strong) and on the tire we have you need to read the fine print about air pressure and speed. They say you should not run the tire over 55mph for prolong periods of time unless you add 10 # to the required air pressure and then you are good at 65mph for prolonged periods of time.
Most people miss this foot note in the tire manual. The Michilins we have are the largest tire they make and I can't tell you which one it is without going to the storage lot. hopes this helps
Bill
Yahoo Message Number: 5139 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5139)
Bill,
Thanks for the information. I was not aware of the speed limitations on the Michelins. But then I don't read manuals very well. I know the model and they do cost around $500. A small price to pay for better handling.
Doug
Yahoo Message Number: 5167 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5167)
I've been traveling for a couple of weeks, so have missed the good discussion on tire pressures. I had my coach weighed, fully loaded, some time ago, and the result using Toro's chart was 85psi front and 75psi rear and tag. The ride has been super with one exception. The front end frequently bottoms out. I have twice had BuddyGregg-Dallas adjust the shocks with no improvement. Supposedly, they are set at maximum firmness, but there's no way I can tell. I decided on this trip I will request better shocks to alleviate this problem. I am very concerned, though, that one owner experienced a bent tie rod, thus will increase air pressure until better shocks are available.
Walt Rothermel
03Allure30811
Yahoo Message Number: 5168 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5168)
The bottoming out would not have anything to do with your tire pressures, except with the very low tire pressures you run, it indicates that your coach is underloaded. I've seen tag-equipped Allures that ha over 12,000 pound carrying capacity. Since your air bags are set for a certain height, it follows with a lightly loaded coach, you will have much less air pressure in the air bags, thus the bottoming out. Check the front axle capacity--I suspect you have quite a bit on the front end. Load up the front end, and you will reduce bottoming--sounds funny, but with air bags, that's the way it works. Run with a full fresh water tank, and move heavy items as far forward as practical. If you can get the front end close to capacity, I guarantee you will eliminate bottoming-out.
Per Korslund
Affinity 5259
Yahoo Message Number: 5174 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5174)
Hope this does not sound like too dumb a question but how do you load the front axle to capacity (13,200 lbs I think)? I have a 2000 Allure and even with a full tank of diesel and propane I have almost 1000 lbs capacity left at the front end. Conversely, the rear axle is close to capacity even without water on board. There are no storage bays up front and one is not supposed to store anything in the bay beneath the drivers seat. Adding the wood cabinet at the front dash, passenger side, would help. I have no desire to increase my own personal weight of 190...I have moved heavier items in the storage bays midship but have to get the coach weighed at the FMCA rally. I am having bottoming out though and would like to correct that. Any suggestions, Per? Mike 2000 Allure 30493 98 Honda CRV
Yahoo Message Number: 5176 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5176)
Following are my coach's actual weights loaded with water and fuel and normal contents when traveling( in every case the left side was slightly heavier than the right, so the left was compared against the Toyo chart for 12R22.5 tires):
left frt--act wt 5425 Toyo rec psi 80 Actually using 85
left duals " " 8150 " " " less than 70 " 75
left tag---" " 3850 " " " " " " " 75
Total weight of the coach was 34,425 # which I don't think was over or under loaded, thus I have to look at poor shocks as the probable cause of the frequent bottoming out in the front of the coach and porpoising quite a bit. Where am I missing something?
Walt Rothermel
03Allure30811
Yahoo Message Number: 5178 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5178)
With all due respect to the member who stated that low tire pressure will not create, bottoming out --- my experience is to the contrary.
It is my opinion that the rebound created by the sidewall flexing of underinflated tires overpowered my shocks and air bags. My front end almost came off the ground when I hit depressions at very low pressures. I am no physics expert (except when it comes to golf, I
wish), but I know that my front end weight is over 12,000 lbs. It seems to me that cycling it up and down a couple of feet would
produce some "g" loading off the scale.
I talked to the guy at Toyo tech service (the phone number is in the black Toyo book). He helped me get to the correct levels on my 40' 2000 Intrigue. Based on the imbalance on my rig (caused my the very heavy 2000 slide mechanism) the book stated that the rears should be at 75 on the right and 85 on the left. I have settled at 92 with good results. I would strongly suggest that you experiment with 110 in the front. The Toyo guy told me that the tires are safe to 200 psi and 240 degrees.
My air bags were not at optimal settings and I played with them (via a chassis shop) until they were compatible with the increased air
pressure.
Don't give up (as Damon convinced me)!!!
Chuck Gauthier
La Quinta, CA
Yahoo Message Number: 5180 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5180)
Hi Walt; I do not know if Per's theory about the front axle being lightly loaded is true or not...However, the weights you list below confirm his views. Your heavier left frt is 5425 which doubled comes to 10850lbs. My coach is a 2000 Allure and I am pretty sure that the FAWR is 13200 lbs. Hence you are underloaded by 2350 lbs! Now, as I asked previously how are you (we) going to get 2350 lbs over the front axle??? In my case I can add about a 1000 lbs and I see no way to do it. I will try to move even heavier items to the mid bays closer to the front...Since I do not have a tag axle my rear axle is almost overloaded so I do need to try to create a better balance.
Mike 2000 Allure 30493.
On Fri, 20 Jun 2003 16:25:44 -0000 "spiker1029" Spiker1029@...> writes:
Yahoo Message Number: 5181 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5181)
Mike, I agree with your assessment of this problem. There is absolutely no way I could significantly increase wt on the front axle without loading up the frontmost bay with pig iron. It already has a buddy bed in it loaded with two folding bicycles, a tripod with satellite dish mounted on it and sundry other items. Not being a fulltimer I don't carry alot of heavy tools or other items of significant weight.I think I'll forward this entire set of e-mails to Doug Rutherford at CC whose judgement I highly respect. Maybe he can help all of us find a solution.
Walt Rothermel
03Allure30811
Yahoo Message Number: 5183 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5183)
Walt,
I have the same conditions on my coach.... bottoming and porposing. CC told me it is possibly bad shocks, shocks need adjusting and asked me if my suspension had been re-torqued. I have not yet responded to them nor looked for a shop to do that work.
As to your tire pressures.... my opinion (very unauthoratative) is that you are running too low... even if it is per the table.
Dick May
2002 Intrigue, #11438
"The problem with doing nothing is not knowing when you are finished."
Yahoo Message Number: 5189 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5189)
Mike,
Because of the design of the Allure/Intrigue, you are going to be limited on how much weight you can transfer forward. With the Affinity, we have the generator in the nose, and I'm running close to, or sometimes slightly over my front axle max. I have never bottomed out--believe me, I've been over some duesies in Colorado when it comes to bumps! The suggestion on better shocks is a non-player. The function of a shock is to slow down rebound of the spring (air, in our case) in the suspension. When you hit a bump, and the front end comes down, it compresses the spring. Once you are over the bump, the compressed spring forces the front end back up. Without the shock, the spring would force the front end past the normal ride position, and you would start a pogo-action--watch a low-rider go over a bump!. With good shocks, you would ideally just go back to normal ride height, ready for the next bump.
I agree going to higher tire pressures would be better--I would never run 75 or 85 psi in any of these coaches--just my opinion! My point is still that it is not the tires that are bottoming out--it is the suspension. The only thing that will keep you from bottoming out, is increased pressure in the front air bags. I realize you are limited on how much weight you can re-distribute, but anything you can do will help. I think CC missed out on the tag-equipped Allures and Intrigues. With 12,000 pound carrying capacity, these coaches should not have had a tag in the first place. Like I mentioned, we have the opposite issue, I have 2-3,000 pounds available on the rear, so I put heavy items, such as tools, as far back as I can. Good luck!
Per
Affinity 5259
Yahoo Message Number: 5191 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5191)
Do keep me informed. We just recently started noting the bottoming out and will ask about this at the pre rally in York, PA next month. Thanks, Mike.
Yahoo Message Number: 5192 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5192)
Per writes that "the only thing that will keep you from bottoming out is increased pressure in the front air bags". My question: is there anyway to manually increase the pressure in the front air bags? Thanks, Mike 2000 Allure 30493
On Sat, 21 Jun 2003 07:39:44 -0700 (PDT) Per Korslund peralko@...> writes:
Yahoo Message Number: 5195 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5195)
I guess our questions are: if putting 75 lbs in the tires is a bad idea, why did CC service dept do it? Do you think they would purposely propose a solution to wandering in ruts that was detrimental to the rest of the coach? Are you saying they don't know what they are doing? or do you think they they are experimenting, and don't care if it damages the coach since it's still under warranty. Damon R. you know CC well, what do you think? Joe and Patti
2003 Allure 30854
Yahoo Message Number: 5197 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5197)
I have a hard time believing CCI service department would put 75# of air in any tire. Every manufacturer is afraid to put less then 120# in any tire. We were at Lazy Days a few months ago and I asked the service person to add 10 # of air to one of my tires. When I returned all my tires were at 120. When I questioned why he said their orders are if they add any air to a tire all tire are inflated to 120 for safety reasons. They do not want to be liable. for under inflating any RV tire. If you will recall CC recalled 100s of tires several years ago because they were sent across country with less then 120# of air. This is a very sensitive issue across the industry.
Bill G. 2001 Magna #5998
Yahoo Message Number: 5198 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5198)
Hi Joe,
I would start over. Get your coach weighed and use your tire chart. 75 lbs sounds low by about 10 lbs for a 32'. See what the actual numbers say. then go from there. For now I would hike them up to 85 cold.
Good luck and let us know.
Damon
Yahoo Message Number: 5200 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5200)
Bill, I had an early 2000 Intrigue which was included in the tire replacement you mention. The reason for going to 120psi was the coaches used low profile tires which were blowing out, particularly the left front. If I remember right they were 225/70/22.5's. I inflated mine accordingly and the coach rode like a farm wagon. I arbitrarily reduced pressure to 110psi front and 100psi rear with no problems. The reconfiguration of the height valves ( from two front and one rear to one front and two rear ) aided significantly in wt. distribution which was the cause of the low profile tire failures.
We now have 12/22.5 tires, much larger, and I see no reason we shouldn't inflate to the tire mfg's specification per 4-point ( six with a tag axle) weight.
If we shouldn't, CC should so advise us.
Walt Rothermel
03Allure30811
Yahoo Message Number: 5201 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5201)
Thanks Damon,
I think you missed the post were I told everybody that CC weighed all four corners, did the math and left the sheet in my coach showing why they put only 75#'s in all the tires. What bothers is me is all the conventional wisdom that seems to contradict what CC did. I can not understand why a manufacturer would do this if it was the wrong thing to do. So logically either everyone else is wrong, or CC is wrong. I don't see how they could both be right. Maybe I am missing something, but can so many rv'ers be wrong? Or is the manufacturer wrong? Meanwhile, I am driving around with 75#'s in all my tires.
Joe and Patti
Allure 32' 2003 30854
Yahoo Message Number: 5202 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5202)
Hi Joe,
Was this 4 corner weight done after you loaded up the coach with all your stuff or "dry"? The reason I ask is CC places a 4 corner weight sheet in every coach reflecting dry weight. I would get the coach weighed again, preferrably with full water, fuel, and you both in it as well as all your personal gear. Use the chart and add 5 lbs to what ever it says.
Damon
Yahoo Message Number: 5203 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5203)
This was done with all of our stuff in it, and they said they filled the diesel tank, the water, the propane, ie wet weight. The sheet they left was done just a month ago. We bought the MH last October.
Yahoo Message Number: 5205 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5205)
At the risk of beating a thouroughly dead horse, I have previously pondered the question that you asked and come up with two answers, both excusing CC. If they, in -fact, did inflate the tires last --- fuggettit!!
1) I suspect that dealers reduce air pressure (the sales side) in order to have the coach ride more smoothly. I know that mine will ride like the wheels are out of round for a while until the tire temp comes up (2000 40' kitchen slide Intrigue 120# front -- Michelin XZ2's 22.5 x 10 and 92# rear -- factory Toyos run at 110# on the front before replacement). I can take 10-15 minutes even on the freeway for them to smooth completely out when it is cold. If your are driving short distances at low speed on rougher roads, the higher inflation pressures will seem unaccptable, ride wise. The Toyo's have some industrial strength side walls on them!
2) Many of the air inflation devices -- including my onboard compressor --- are very limited in how much air they can put into the
huge tires we have. I have used a work-around (after being frustrated by broken gas station hoses). I start the rig, turn on the cruise and increase the idle to 1000 rpm using the up position on the cruise speed control. I then let the rig idle at 1000 rmp until the pressure on the dash gauge maxes out (around 120 if my memory serves???)=== then leave it running @1000 while I inflate the tires.
Yahoo Message Number: 5212 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5212)
Walt,
My sticker inside the coach (2001 Magna 40' with tag) says to inflate the tires to 120# and I did that even though the tire chart said I could go down to 85#. We did not use those Toyos very long before CC replaced them with the largest steer tire Michillen makes ( 9000 # rating at 120#) the ride of the Michillen's is so good we run them at 110# and we love the ride, plus they run at a temp. of 130 degrees. Now I know the tires would even be better at 85# as far as the ride is concerned but I like the margin of safety the higher air pressure gives us and we are willing to go with a little less confort.
We also went thru the weight and low profile tires on our 2000 Intrigue. We left the factory with those tires and a 1000 pound difference from one side to the other. Four weeks later when we arrived home we got a letter telling us to inflate to 120# and wait for new tires to arrive. We then took the coach to Lazy Days and they reworked our level system and we lowered the tire pressure to 100#. Still high by some people's standards but in 10 years of motor coaching we have never had a tire problem so we will keep the higher tire pressures.
Bill G. 2001 Magna #5998
Yahoo Message Number: 5213 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/5213)
Chuck,
I agree with everything you said. We run our tires the same way you do and from all the seminars I have went to on tire, that the way they say it should be. I do at least one tire seminar a year, to keep up to date on this very important issue and it seems to work for us.
Bill G. 2001 Magna #5998
Yahoo Message Number: 28743 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28743)
I've just been on the phone with CC Tech re the latest tire recall/pressure recommendations. As you may know they are saying 125PSI all around. I have been running at 105PSI which is more than adequate per Michelin. I have XZA-1s which I put on May 2004. The Michelin Pressure guide says @105 PSI the duals support 13540lbs/side and 7440 lbs/side in the front.
I'm considering upping the pressure to 110PSI all around and installing a Crossfire pressure equalization system on the duals. I'm OK weight wise according to the truck scales. All recalls have been done on the coach.
Any opinions on the advantage/disadvantage of 125PSI and has anyone had experience with tire equalization systems (specifically Crossfire)?
Bill Risser
36' '99 Intrigue "Galley's Open" 1 slide
PS They told me at CC that the recall was caused by inner dual failures probably caused by heat.
Yahoo Message Number: 28762 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28762)
It sounds like you have the same model coach that I have. I lost both inside duals this summer and replaced the rest of the tires because I thought it was age related. What were the weights on your coach?
Everett
99 Intrigue 10758
Galley's Open one slide
Yahoo Message Number: 28764 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28764)
I have used the Crossfire system on our coach for six years and have never had a problem with the duals on which it is installed. The system was purchased and installed by a company that operates a fleet of charter bus coaches. At the time of purchase the operator or the bus service told me that they have used them on all of their units for ten years and have never had a tire failure on their duals. It was this that sold me on the Crossfire system.
Bill
2002 Magna
Coach Number 6119
Yahoo Message Number: 28774 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28774)
Bill I agree with you. I have had crossfire on my rear tires for about three years and have not had any problems. Crossfire sure help when adding air to the duals.
William Faver
Fort Worth
03 allure
Yahoo Message Number: 28796 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28796)
Thanks for the replys! Since I have to order the Crossfire for a specific pressure I'm curious what your air pressure is and what is your approx. rear axle weight?
I am carrying about 20000 on the rear axle and have been running at 105PSI. According to Michelin I am fine at that pressure for my XZA-1s but I'm considering reunning at 110PSI. What do you think?
As you know CC is telling us 125PSI all around because of the inner dual failures. That sounds like CYA to me.
Bill
Intrigue #10882
36' Intrigue "Galleys Open"
Yahoo Message Number: 28797 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28797)
Everett,
I carry a motorcycle on an Overbilt lift so my rear axle is at about 20,000lbs.
Were those the original Toyos that blew or had you put new tires on before that happened?
What pressure were you running at? What tires are you running with now?
Bill #10882
Yahoo Message Number: 28806 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28806)
The Crossfire system I have installed on the duals is set at 110 psi. This is the pressure that is called for on the DOT plate in the coach. Would guess that the ride would be better if I went with less pressure, however I have experienced several blow outs on a previous coach and want to avoid that situation.
Bill
2002 Magna 40'
Coach Number 6119
Yahoo Message Number: 28833 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28833)
This summer with I lost the inside duals, I was running 120#. We lost the second dual about 250 miles from the point we lost the first. The tires were original, so they were old. I am not the fist owner, so I don't know if the previous owner had been running under inflated.
Everett
99 Intrigue 10758
Yahoo Message Number: 28834 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28834)
Those tires were likely manufactured in 1998. If the failed in 2006, that is 8 years. Way too long to be driving on them. Depending on how the tires are cared for, 5-7 years maximum. Too many sidewall cracks and that is likely the failure point.
Jim Hughes
2000 Allure #30511
Yahoo Message Number: 28845 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28845)
Do you have a web site or contact information for the Crossfire system you have?
Yahoo Message Number: 28859 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28859)
The 'Dual Dynamics' website (www.dualdynamics.com/dualcrossfire.html (http://www.dualdynamics.com/dualcrossfire.html)) has absolutely no contact information, just a description of their products including Crossfire. The following place seems to have them, and at a price which looks good (about $75):
Customer Service Toll Free (US Only) 1-866-MIDWAY-1 Telephone 214-943-4341
Postal address:
Midway Auto Supply
P.O. Box 4415
Dallas, TX 75208 United States
Customer service:
shopinfo@... (shopinfo@...)
I have no experiance with this company, but I think I might have in future :-)
John 04 Inspire 51078
Yahoo Message Number: 28866 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28866)
http://www.nextag.com/crossfire-tire/search-html (http://www.nextag.com/crossfire-tire/search-html) for crossfires
Fred Kovol
Yahoo Message Number: 28867 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28867)
http://www.wholesalemidwest.com/crossfire.htm (http://www.wholesalemidwest.com/crossfire.htm) even a better price and selection for crossfires.
Fred Kovol
Yahoo Message Number: 28869 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28869)
I got mine on e-Bay. $54. You can order whatever pressure setting you need, and will get them in about a week. Type in "Crossfire dual pressure" and it'll take you to them.
Dave and Carol Trotter
'01 Intrigue #11215
Yahoo Message Number: 28877 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28877)
Which of the Crossfire systems do people recommend? They have the heavy duty rubber hose (CHDRH), stainless hose (CSSH), and what is the "Super Single" Crossfire (Rubber hose, SSCFRH, Stainless hose (SSCSSH)?
Al Colby
2000 Intrigue 10979
Yahoo Message Number: 28878 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28878)
Fred: I have a question on another subject. If car and RV manufacturers did not use the chassis of the vehicle as a ground return, would electrolysis be less of a concern?
TWI 2004 Intrigue 11731
Yahoo Message Number: 28881 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28881)
Al,
The super single Crossfire is a unit for just a single tire.
The "Dual" is for the rear duals. I ordered the stainless braid just because the hoses are aexposed and they look better cosmetically than rubber hoses.
Dave Trotter
'01 Intrigue #11215
Yahoo Message Number: 28884 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28884)
Hi TWI,
Vehicle chassis, although steel and aluminum, does provide infinite paths for electron flow, thus voltage drop is minimal if proper bonding methods are used. Poor or loose grounds cause corosion at the grounding location but not electroysis across large areas. Small plates with multiple poor grounding from plate to plate can cause larger area electrolysis manifestations. This is only a partial answer. Many other factors are envolved. Murphy was an optimist.
Fred Kovol
Yahoo Message Number: 28887 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/28887)
Hey Fred.....how about sacrifical anodes or zincs as in the marine industry? Could they placed at strategic places?
Max
98 Affinity #5487
Yahoo Message Number: 29010 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/29010)
The Crossfires are sold at fixed pressure settings. Does anyone know whether they are adjustable at all? What do you do if you decide to run higher or lower pressures? Buy new sets?
Bill & Debbie in San Diego
Yahoo Message Number: 29031 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/29031)
No, they are designed to work at a specific pressure. If you decide to change pressures, you will need to get a new set, or perhaps you can trade in on the old set.
John 04 Inspire 51078
Yahoo Message Number: 29041 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/29041)
I asked this same question to the guy that sold me the Crossfire at one of the Rallys. He told me that they will still equalize the pressure in the two tires but the red/yellow flags in the window will be off. So, they will not report accurate red/yellow information when looking at it. Since I have the Smartire and manually check pressure anyway, I decided not to worry about it if I want to add a few more pounds than what the Crossfire indicator is configured for.
My Smartire verifies that the tire pressures remain equal.
Larry 03 Allure, 30856
Yahoo Message Number: 46588 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46588)
I have a drivers side front tire that apparently has a slow leak. I will be bringing in to a tire place that can handle big tires soon and hopefully they can fix it since I have only had the coach since October and it is a new '09. The recommended inflation for this tire is 125 psi. The air compressor I own will not produce more that 100 pounds and none of my local gas stations can get beyond 100 psi. Does anyone know of a air compressor that will actually produce 125 psi that would be portable enough for me to carry in the coach? I had a friend bring over a monster compressor on four wheels and a tank that looked like a small car. It was suppose to get to 150 psi but it never got beyond 105 in actual output. I'm open to suggestions.
Chuck
31695
09' Allure 470 Crane Praire
Yahoo Message Number: 46589 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46589)
Chuck,
I bought a tire pressure booster (http://www.dickmantires.com/air_pressure/air_pressure.html (http://www.dickmantires.com/air_pressure/air_pressure.html)) from Bob Dickman tires a couple of years ago. I keep it in the molded plastic box you can also buy, though I have heard that some have more permanently attached it to the coach. The tire pressure booster connects to one of your air outlets (usually located under the front of the coach on the driver side). I have successfully used it to bring my tires to their correct pressures (I use the placard behind the driver's seat after having weighed the coach to assure proper weight balancing). It works great, it's always with you, it's light and easy to use and I wouldn't be without one.
Harry
06 Inspire 51933
Yahoo Message Number: 46593 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46593)
Chuck:
Most air compressor systems where the motor is of the medium or larger size have a regulator and some gages on them. In my case it is a 3 HP with a 20 gallon tank on 220 volts.
That said many of the smaller units still have the same regulator. Now for the point of all the description...........
If you check the regulator manifold you should see a plug opposite the fitting where your hose connects. This plug is pressure direct from the compressor that bypasses the regulator. My unit, with the hose hooked up to the correct connection on the regulator, also maxes out at about 105 and not for long with out forcing you to bleed off to get the unit to recharge.
With the hose at the other pluged position I have no problem getting the 125 LBS needed for inflation.
The regulators are in practice limited but the compressor has a greater capacity without in danger of exceeding the safe limits of the tank.
Jim Green Intrigue 11021 "Rollingghetto"
Yahoo Message Number: 46594 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46594)
Les Schwab sells a gadget that fits in your hand that will double the air pressure provided by the coach for inflating tires. Call the boys in Junction City, that's where I purchased mine. It takes my 12R's from 105 to 120 lbs in about two minutes. It has matching fittings. I sort of remember seeing an ad for one in the last issue of Destinations Magazine. TWI 2004 intrigue 11731
Yahoo Message Number: 46598 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46598)
Porter-Cable makes a 150 PSI, 110 volt unit that easily handles the 120 psi I need and it'll fit in about any storage bay. Cost around $150
Ken Bradshaw '04 Allure 31042
Yahoo Message Number: 46602 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46602)
There are also CO2 tanks available from several sources, most common are by PowerTank. With 300psi+ pressure available it fills/tops off tires quickly. Negatives are cost which is about $400 when all is said and done, the tank takes up room and must be refilled after a while. I get two or three years from a $15 fill. I am quite happy with the system except for the size - and weight. You can also use power tools with the available high flow valve but I seldom need that or even carry the tools it could operate.
I would have spent the money on the Les Schwab pressure multiplier system but I don't think it was available 5 years ago when I bought the PowerTank - at least I didn't know about it. I am sure it is slow in comparison to the CO2 tank but it takes up such little space I think it's a better choice. But not enough for me to throw away the tank and spend another $400. It ain't broken so I won't fix it.
Bob Handren
Inspire 51178
Yahoo Message Number: 46608 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46608)
When you said "The recommended inflation for this tire is 125 psi" is that the max the tire will take or what you need to carry your load?
If what you need to carry the weight is in the 105 - 115 psi range, you can get that with your on-board air tanks.
If 125 psi is what you must have to carry the load . . . hum, that sounds high and potentially problematic.
--
Lee Zaborowski
Intrigue #12153
Yahoo Message Number: 46610 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46610)
Lee, last Feb in Tuscon I asked Paul with Bob Dickman what pressure they were suggesting and they said CC and their recomendation was to use the pressure on the placard in the coach. I confirmed this with the head of engineering at that time. They both said the tire manuf weight charts had led to some underinflation rates. I had Toyo's on my Intrigue and had weighted it travel ready and fueled when we first got the coach and following the chart it indicated front and tag pressure of 90 and 80 for the drive, I thought this was too low and called customer service at Toyo and was tole to go with 110 front and tag and 100 drive. Since talking to Paul and CC Feb 08 I put Michelin ZXA all the way aroung and went to 120 front and tag, and 100 drive. Rides fine and matches the placard. If you remember the ford Firestone deal years ago was primarily from not running pressure per the manufacture placard. CC attitude was just use the placard and don't run a chance of underinflation.
Phil Baker 03 Intrigue 11667
Yahoo Message Number: 46611 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46611)
Hi Phil. My readings on the tire pressure subject by many owners was to go with 10 psi above what the tire manufacturer charts say - in your case 90+10=100 and 80+10=90. That's what I've been doing for 3 years with no problems. Adding another 10 psi, as long as you'll below the max for the rim should not be harmful, just a harsher ride.
This whole thread started with air compressors and I still think you can tweak with your on-board air tanks. I am puzzled as to why an owner, if the tires are not leaking, would need to fiddle with air pressure at all and need a compressor at all, once you get it right, other than a small bump up once a year.
I could buy 110 front and 100 drive for you. The tag pressures are a magical mystery show!
Lee
Yahoo Message Number: 46616 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46616)
Gentlemen
The whole tire pressure issue is as a result of the Ford/Firestone tire situation a few years ago on SUV's When I took delivery of my 09 Magna I had a discussion with the CC engineering Guy. My coach has the 20,000 LB front suspension which is the same as a Prevost Bus CC used the same air pressure ratings as Prevost even though the front end loads are different. The rationale was that if it was good enough for Prevost it was good enough for CC. I E they would have to sue Prevost and CC. Paul at Bob Dickman tire almost had me sign a document so that they would not be sued because I wanted to Run Less tire pressure than what was shown on the label ( A La Prevost ) I had CC do a 6 point weigh of my coach with all our stuff on it. I then went to the Michelin tables ( which I am sure have a safety factor built in ) and added 5 PSI to the numbers. It was only then that BoB Dickman Tire consented to program the Smart Tire at the pressures I selected From the Michelin Chart. It is WHOLEY about being sued. PERIOD If you have a 6 point weighing and allow a safety factor to the Manufacturers tables that they will allow themselves to change from the listed settings ( which are all about Not getting sued ) FMCA has it right --- get your coach weighed , add a safety factor ( to the already safety factored factory tables ) and adjust your pressures to that so that you can be safe and get a good ride. Forget all the other fluff!!
Ron Baran Magna 7025
Yahoo Message Number: 46620 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46620)
Exactly my understanding of the issue and what we do. Lawyers can cause unintended results like no other profession on earth. You still can't get a weight/pressure table from some manufacturers for some tires but can for others (particularly off-road since the Feds don't regulate all of that - yet.) IF none is available use the Fed mandated placard. If you change brands and the placard becomes inaccurate and no tables are available - good luck. It's probably a law firm will sure over that after a failure and then there will be nothing to guide us.
The safest practice is to know what YOUR coach weighs at every tire with the coach loaded for travel and use the appropriate pressures - as per FMCA guidance. If err you must slight overpressure is much better and safer than underpressure and never exceed the values on the sidewall cold.
I just bought new tires and bypassed any brand that does not publish weight/inflation tables. The coach has been weighed and we follow the tables as appropriate. They are Firestones.
(Gasp.)
Bob Handren
Inspire 51178
Yahoo Message Number: 46622 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46622)
Ron and I have said the same thing, only I like the 10 psi safety margin.
--
Lee Zaborowski
Intrigue #12153
Yahoo Message Number: 46623 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46623)
Anyone ever try the Porter-Cable 150psi compressor? They are normally $180, on sale now for $130 at a Ace Hardware in Mustang, OK.
DougC
'94 CC Magna #5072
Yahoo Message Number: 46624 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46624)
I have been reading the posts on this subject with interest. I would like to emphasize the importance of correct tire pressure with a story. About 20 years ago Continental Airlines had a aborted takeoff accident at LAX causing total destruction of the aircraft and fortunately all survived. The NTSB determined the cause of the accident was tire failure due to incorrect tire inflation. Under inflation, max gross takeoff weights and long taxi distances caused excessive sidewall flexing producing unacceptable heat which caused tire failure. The NTSB fix was a minimum mandatory tire pressure for all max gross takeoffs. This leads me to suggest that correct tire pressure must be determined and maintained for the safe operation of my RV. My life might depend on it.
Fritz 98 Allure 30223
Yahoo Message Number: 46625 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46625)
I used a Porter-Cable pancake 125psi compressor for several years. It worked fine, but occasionally the compressor PSI reached the Max cutoff pressure and shut off. Sometimes I then had to bleed down the tank pressure once it dropped to about 110 PSI to trigger the compressor to start up again. That was because the start up PSI on my compressor was below my tire PSI.
Yahoo Message Number: 46626 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46626)
I did and it really does not work well. It takes to much time, the pressure differencial between the pump and the tire is just not enough for you to fill the tire, and thus it just takes a long time, and I could never get to 115 PSI. I bought the unit from Schawb and wow within a minute I am at the correct tire pressure. I use the unit just about once a year to get all the tires with the correct pressure before I leave on a trip. The pump is expensive, but it is worth it. I could not get the truck stops to allow me in to use there air pumps, those boys do not care for us RV'ers taking up there time.
Also I like to overfill the tire, and then bleed off to correct pressure. According to Smart tire I am with 1 psi from tire to tire on desired pressure, that was not possible with my pump. I still have the pump and will make you a great deal.
Sincerely,
Jim Spivey
Yahoo Message Number: 46627 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46627)
Hi Folks,
Consider reading msg 37201.
You can search on Kovol and Tire Pressure to get all the history on this subject and then make up your own mind.
Fred Kovol
2000 Allure 30593
Yahoo Message Number: 46628 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46628)
I use the 150psi Porter Cable compressor on my Allure tires 275/80 size. I works fine and I can use it for other projects also. I also use to drive air tools.
Jack
97 Allure 30076
Yahoo Message Number: 46630 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/46630)
I remember that day at LAX, I was there. I know it doesn't seem like it, but it was closer to thirty years ago.
Tire pressure was an issue, however use of mixed brands and recaps was also a consideration.
Four people did die.
Very bad luck for the captain, I believe it was his last flight prior to retirement and he had his wife in the jump seat which was approved by Continental at the time.
I flew my last flight thru LAX eight years ago for USAirways. I didn't tell anyone until after the flight, not even my wife, I just went home.
As for the proper tire pressure for your coach, you can listen to the lawyers that mainly want to win cases, or you can follow the recommendation of the tire engineers that have a vested interest in your safety.
I made my choice.
Jim
2005 Inspire #51225
Yahoo Message Number: 88057 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/88057)
2008 Intrigue 42 ft with tag
the wt of MH
left frt 7420 rt frt 7150
left drive axle 10400 rt drive 9900 left tag 4100 rt tag 5000
the man I bought it from says 125 frt 105 drive 85 tag does this sound right? is there a chart that shows what pressure for the wt the frt sounds high to me
any help would be appreciated
Thank you
Marvin Hardy
SOCAL
Yahoo Message Number: 88058 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/88058)
You need to specify the brand of the tire, the size and the load range.
Then you can go to the tire manufacturers web site, look up that specific tire and you will find a chart for inflation at each weight range.
Different tires have different inflation requirements at a given weight.
You may also want to check the DOT date code on EACH tire, they are probably 5 or 6 years old. based on age they may be near replacement time.
Bob Wexler
SOB
Yahoo Message Number: 88059 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/88059)
From experience I'll tell you to run all most the same pressure in your tags as you do the steer tires to prevent rubbing the edges off. There are always instances when you make sharper corners in second gear or above when you can't lift the tag axle or when you are going thru a dip at the same time as making a sharp turn and can't lift the tag with out dragging the bottom of the coach. TWI 2004 42' Intrigue 11731
Yahoo Message Number: 88061 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/88061)
Another thought to add onto Bob's. When checking the tire mfg chart, if you find your weights are getting close to the top of a range, bump it up to the next range.
Another thing I do is then add +5psi on top of the setting found on the chart. While I'm positive the engineers have added 'margins of safety' in the PSI's listed for the weight, I also know that sometimes things change. Adding new gear, temporary carrying of extra weight in one area, maybe traveling with full Water, Fuel, and Grey/Black tanks not completely empty. And, as pointed out on RV.Net forum by either Johnny T or Wolfe (can't recall which one), sometimes tires get extra loads on them by other factors. Long sweeping turns at internet speeds, loads the outside tire with more weight. Sustained crosswinds will also load the leeward side of the coach.
That extra 5psi, is where I try to allow for these, and also if the tire drops a few PSI before I get a chance to top it off - you're still above the tire manufactures recommended PSI.
Best of luck, be safe, and have fun, Smitty
04 Allure 31017
Yahoo Message Number: 90864 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/90864)
I'm curious to see how many of you fellow CC owners run max inflation pressure in your front tires. I have XZA2 Michelin 295/80's and the tire info sticker in the driver's areas says 120 psi and 100 in all the rear tires. When I got the coach from the dealer with all new tires, they had 120 in all of them.
I had individual wheel position weights done by my local DMV portable scales guy and consulted the Michelin load inflation tables. Based on my actual weights, I adjusted the fronts to 110 and the rears to 90, all of which well exceeded the load table recommendations.
So, all that said, since the front is pretty heavy (I weigh 14,000 on the steer axle with a loaded-for-travel coach), should I just run them back to 120?
Gary
'07 Allure 470 #31578, 425 hp Cummins
Yahoo Message Number: 90865 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/90865)
I run ne wXZA2 Energy Michelin 295/80R22.5 on all 8 wheels on our coach... I run 120 in the front and about 110 on the dualies and 105 on the tag axle. I keep pressures monitored with a TPMS. Our coach is about 38,000 lbs loaded and rides and handles well with these tires and pressures
Joseph Burkle
2008 Country Coach Inspire 360 Founders Edition 43' quad slide tag axle 425 HP C9 pusher http://www. Wind-seeker.com/ (http://www. Wind-seeker.com/)
Yahoo Message Number: 90866 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/90866)
I asked a factory Michelin application Engineer what I should use for pressure in the 315 fronts and the 295 rear
And tag. He said 100 in the front and 85 on the rear and tag for an 06 intrigue 12047. Bob
Yahoo Message Number: 90882 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/90882)
I have Michelin XZA3 tires on my 2005 Inspire. I inflate all tires to 105 lbs.
RJ
2005 Inspire 51264
Yahoo Message Number: 90883 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/90883)
Gee, doesn't all this have something to do with axle weights and weight at each tire position. Don't have that, all you have is a WAG.
Lee (leozbrowski@...)2007 Country Coach Intrigue 12153 CAT C-13
Yahoo Message Number: 90889 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/90889)
IMHO, ' the fronts to 110 and the rears to 90' sounds right. I don't run the max 120, do about what you did.
Lee (leozbrowski@... (leozbrowski@...)) 2007 Country Coach Intrigue 12153
CAT C-13
Yahoo Message Number: 90890 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/90890)
I run 120lbs in the front and 95lbs in the rear. I can not think of a downside to a little extra inflation unless it is affecting the ride and my coach seems to like those pressures. There must also be some fuel economy benefit.
Dan 2006 Allure 31348 C-9
Yahoo Message Number: 90893 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/90893)
Z-Man,
What is a WAG?
Ricardo
04 Intrigue #11830
Yahoo Message Number: 90896 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/90896)
Add a "S" and you get the Sophisticated Wild Arse Guess... SWAG!!!! So, I bet Z just abbreviated it...
Of course in my family, with my name starting with G, they call it Wild Arse Greg!!!
Be good, have fun, be safe - and stay tuned to see if Smitty was close to Z's line of thinking:)!
Smitty
04 Allure 31017
Yahoo Message Number: 90898 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/90898)
Bingo.
Lee (leozbrowski@... (leozbrowski@...)) 2007 Country Coach Intrigue 12153
CAT C-13
Yahoo Message Number: 90899 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/90899)
I always thought that was "Scientific."
Max
98 Affinity #5487
Yahoo Message Number: 90902 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/90902)
Honest scientists don't make wild ass guesses.
'The good thing about science is that it's true whether or not you believe in it.'
Neil deGrasse Tyson
Lee (leozbrowski@... (leozbrowski@...)) 2007 Country Coach Intrigue 12153
CAT C-13
Yahoo Message Number: 1931 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/1931)
On 2000 40ft Intrigue I am running 115 in front tires and 110 in back tires. My ride seems comfortable at that level and it handles great.
Ray
11040
Yahoo Message Number: 1932 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/1932)
This is close to what I am running right now. I am questioning the pressure in part due to the harsh ride on some road surfaces.
Some of our California highways are very poor, especially on the curb lanes, it seems even the truckers are beginning to avoid that lane!
Not all CA highways are bad but we do seem to be way behind in maintenance in many places.
When I look at the TOYO tire chart, and assuming I am loaded to the GVWR I would have 13200 on the front axle and 19000 on the rear.
Dividing the front by 2 we get 6600 pounds per wheel which equates to 105 PSI on the chart.
Dividing the rear by 4 we get 4750 pounds per wheel which equates to about 70 PSI.
If I add 5 PSI as a precaution the information would suggest we run at 110 front, 75 rear.
What is wrong with this picture? From the input so far, no one is running their rears that low.
My TOYO tires have a 120 lb cold maximum stamped on the side and have the H rating. The Vin plate next to the driver reads 120 front 110 rear.
To my mind these are maximum allowable cold pressure ratings for these tires not necessarily the recommended pressures based on individual wheel weight.
The more I learn about this subject the less I seem to know.
Confused in California.
David & Karen,
2000 CC Intrigue 11062
40 ft. Gourmet on the Road
Yahoo Message Number: 1933 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/1933)
Hi David,
Doug Rutherford, CC, recommends 85 psi minimum, regardless of the Toyo chart numbers. Below 85, side wobble can happen resulting in lose of control, also side wall strength becomes diminished. 120 front and 110 rear is the max pressures that CC delivers the coach with for liability purposes. If you read the words with the Toyo charts, it says weigh the four locations per one of their 2 methods with the coach loaded. And understand what loaded means.
Fred Kovol
Yahoo Message Number: 1939 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/1939)
I run with 95 psi in all tires. Tables would permit like 85 psi but I want to get the cooler tire that 95 psi results in. I have SmarTire and look at temperatures as well as pressures. The ride is not excessively harsh.
Sincerely
George W Becker
Yahoo Message Number: 1942 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/1942)
Dave, I think the problem is that we are all trying to make this way too hard rather than just reading what Toyo recommends and following their instructions. Their tables are quite clear, imo, but we all have our own experiences and the experiences of others that we bring to the table. I think that is what causes the problem. We just don't trust the information we have. Why do I run a few pound more than what the Toyo table recommends? I think it is my belief that I am being a little more cautious if I run a margin of safety pressure up to the maximum cold pressure. I don't think any reduced pressure would make the ride any better over rough roads like the ones encountered on many interstate highways. The only thing that helps with that is to slow down to an unbearably slow speed. I think I will continue to run my tires with a pressure close to the maximum cold pressure as stated on the tires, at least with that if I load a few extra pounds in the vehicle..i.e. when I take on a few passengers or throw in some heavy item I just purchased then I feel I am covered.
I definitely would not feel comfortable running anything below 100 pounds pressure in the tires. I think that is asking for trouble, jus my opinion. BTW, in case you wish to see the charts and have misplaced the info that came with your mh, you can go to www.toyo.com and get all the info and they also have an email link where you can write to them with your concerns.
Ray
2000 Intrigue 11040
40 Ft. Gourmet on the Road
Yahoo Message Number: 1943 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/1943)
Thanks Ray. I have the charts. My next step is get the coach weighed and balanced, then I can do the calculations and make my decision on what pressures I will be happy with.
It was interesting to read the various pressures people use.
Out of curiosity I would be interested to know what the tire pressure becomes after the coach has been running at speed for thirty minutes.
I guess those that have smart tire can read their pressure when cold, then get a reading of temperature and pressure after running at speed. If anyone has this information and would like to share it would be of interest.
David & Karen,
2000 CC Intrigue 11062
40 ft. Gourmet on the Road
Yahoo Message Number: 1944 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/1944)
I've found a huge difference in pressures hot vs cold with smart tire.. as much as 20lbs difference
Yahoo Message Number: 1958 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/1958)
We find that our tires go from 115 at 65 degrees to 129 at 90 degrees. that is from our smart tire. Temperature stays around 135 degrees in the tires.
Bill G.
Yahoo Message Number: 6556 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/6556)
For those interested:
The "Intellivalve.com"
web site is back up and running. Nothing yet on our RV sized units, but you can download the User's manual and service manual.
The tires must be un mounted to install the sending units.
James M. Green
Yahoo Message Number: 12966 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/12966)
I have monitored the smart tire gauge frequently and find that the pressure increases between 10 & 15 pounds when driving, only takes about 10 miles to pick up 10 pounds. When cold the dual rears are set at 90 pounds, fronts at 110. After the 10 miles the dual rears are up to 100 and fronts 120 recorded on the gauge. When running at 110+ outside temperature, they have reached 105 and 125. In Arizona, we have had numerous tire failures due to extreme heat. Pressure monitoring is critical. More pressure is better than less. John 2002 Allure
#30702
Yahoo Message Number: 12972 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/12972)
I monitor the smart tire gauge also - found the same results except we start at 100 pounds. The inside rear tires tend to run hotter - apparently because of brakes or circulation - A few months ago we left Boise - register said inside rear tire low - filled it to 100 lbs. - drove to Arizona - left Arizona a few weeks later - inside tire again low - filled it - went to California and around and up north of Reno - register again said low - finally had the tire pulled and checked - we had a very slow leak in the stem - So since we there we had them take the old air out and put new air in - Smart tire is a good thing
CHEERS - Clint
2004 Inspire #51038
Yahoo Message Number: 65211 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/65211)
Well, I am a bit confused now. I have been setting my tire pressure at what I considered a normal "cold" temperature of 72 degrees. If the weather is colder, I would adjust the pressure accordingly, using a chart which I think someone on this group directed me to. The chart says, for example, that if the correct pressure at 72 degrees is 100 lbs., then at 60 degrees you should be at 96.8. Now I read in Motorhome magazine that you should never be at a lower pressure then the indicated cold inflation, no matter how cold it is! And that you should inflate to that pressure and then let some air out after driving and the tires warm up! ("Coach and Powertrain" by Ken Freund, December issue, page 60). To me, this risks overinflation, especially if you are heading out on a really cold day. What do others think? BTW, I downloaded Michelin's Inflation charts for RVs, and my tires, XZE2, do not show up on that chart for the size 275/70 R22.5. ??????
Al Colby
2000 Intrigue 10979
Yahoo Message Number: 65216 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/65216)
Al, here is what I recommend, and I'll keep it short and simple.
To start, an easier/closer T (temperature) P (pressure) relationship is 2 PSI for every 10 degrees change. So 100 PSI at 72 degrees would read or be set at 98 PSI at 62 degrees. I think the 3.2 degree Fahrenheit change you quote is wrong.
Determine your correct tire pressures (by the tables) at 72 or 70, either is fine, no big deal. Add an additional 5 to 10 PSI to the correct pressures on each tire. This a 'safety margin' and will not cause a problem as long as you don't exceed the max pressures stamped on the rim. Also the tires will wear better.
Inflate your tires accordingly. Your done.
Forget the daily tweaking of P based on daily T changes. you have that 5/10 PSI safety margin, which will accommodate 25/50 degree T swings.
That's it.
I've used this procedure for years, its recommended by others, its safe. Other than monitoring tire pressure for leaks, I usually adjust P once every 6 months max.
Lee Zaborowski
07 Intrigue 12153, Cat C-13
Yahoo Message Number: 65218 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/65218)
Al,
I agree with Lee. I cap my extra PSI at 5 psi, but I also round of my weights too, so probably pretty close.
On my XZE's, 12R's, I called Michelin support, as I could not find my size tire either. He had me drill down into the site a different way, and noted that it was a site flaw. If I can remember how to drill into it, I'll send you a PM. (I printed out the data, when I did get in...)
You could call them, and see if the could get you in the same way.
Good luck,
Smitty
04 Allure 31017
Yahoo Message Number: 65224 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/65224)
Al,
I agree with Lee, but I go a step further and make it even simpler. I have Toyo 111Z's on my coach and, at my fully loaded weight, Toyo's chart recommends cold inflation pressure of 75 lbs, front and rear. I have Accuride rims with 120 lb maximum pressure warnings stamped on them. I inflate the tires to 90 lbs cold and keep them there all year around. When ambient temperature drops in the winter I have to add a few pounds, and vice versa when spring and summer rolls around. I check the SmartTire system occasionally when driving and have observed that hot, rolling pressure rises 12-15 lbs over cold so I am staying well below the 120 max.
Nate Richards
04 Allure 31043
Yahoo Message Number: 65229 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/65229)
This has to be one of the most confusing parameters of MH operation. You will get recommendations that are more varied than colors of the rainbow. I've questioned this for years and changed my procedure many times. And I have found they all work. Some require more attention than others. I've presented this question to Michelin, Goodyear and Bridgestone. Mostly what you get is CYA stuff. They all, at first, say go by the manufacturers recommendation. That of course is the maximum the tires/wheels allow. You can never go wrong with that.
Here is what the all say after a second inquiry. Determine the weight on the tire and use the tire inflation tables, adding some pressure for a margin of safety. Now, here's the rub, the tables say cold inflation pressure. What the heck does that mean? What is cold? Turns out cold means they have not been driven on for 3 or 4 hours or externally heated like by the sun, etc. The actual ambient temperature is not a factor. If the cold pressure is 100# and the ambient temperature is 65 degrees, then pressure should be 100#. If the ambient temperature is 95 degrees, set the pressure at 100#. This goes against what you read here, but, honest to god, that is what they all say. Don't want to start a pi----g contest, reporting my findings. So that's what I do and have never had a problem.
That's my story and I am sticking to it.
Jim
Yahoo Message Number: 65235 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/65235)
The Les Schwab place in Junction City told me to go by the placecard on the panel next to the drivers seat to set tire pressure at cold temp (before driving). I just bought new Michelins for the front and still running the old toyos on the drive and tag (for about two more weeks until I replace them too). Their guru down there (I think his name is Paul) told me the fronts on my coach are to be set according to the factory specs assuming that you have the tire size that is called for. For my coach that was 120 lbs on the front and tag and 110 lbs on the drive.
I have the acccuride rims stating 120lbs max but that is the cold max pressure not the running pressure. My 12Rx22.5's have higher weight capacity if the tires are at 120lbs than at 85lbs. My rig is one heavy coach (C12 engine) and requires the 120lbs in the front and tag tires or else those tires are going to get really hot with the additional amount of flexing on the sidewall and tread on the road at lower pressures.
I had a front end alignment guy tell me that 110 was sufficient for my front tires just after I bought the coach three months ago so I ran with them at 110 with the drives at 100lbs. My smart tire monitor showed me at least a 22 lbs air pressure rise on the freeway as the temperature rose.
After pumping them up to 120 lbs (cold) my tire pressure now only increase by 17 lbs under the same road conditions and outside air temperature. The tire temperature obviously was lower at the 120 lbs cold. What did I learn, follow the placecard, and what the tire manufacture liturature confirms, well at least until I confirm what my normal weight is going down the road is what the placecard assumes.
Dallas 2004 Intrigue Ovation 42'
Yahoo Message Number: 65242 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/65242)
Dallas, the one set of information you did not mention and do need is the actual weight at the six tire positions. You must have that information, otherwise all else is a guess.
Then, it's my recommendation that you follow the sequence I outlined earlier in this thread.
lee
Yahoo Message Number: 65245 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/65245)
May be I missed something (my age anything possible) Factory specs are max specs.
Here again is a tire guy that hasn't done his home work keeping up with all the resources available and passes on questionable advice.
New Michelins a great new ride you will enjoy with those premium tires. Then why would you ride down the road sitting on a park bench ? We are not hauling freight, we are not hauling rock. Why not enjoy the ride ?With the following suggestion, you will be amazed.....
Step one...find a place to weigh your coach. Flying J, $9.00 appox Step two... fill fuel tank nearly full, water nearly full, normal gear onboard.
Step three... drive to weigh scale and weigh the coach to obtain 6 point readings from all your tire positions.
Step four... go to Michelin tire inflation guide and find your tire size and with the axle weights find your suggested cold pressure settings. At the least weigh each axle separate, if unable to do a 6 point weigh.
Let us know,
AL
00 Affinity
Yahoo Message Number: 65250 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/65250)
Al,
If it is a 275/70R22 load range J and the XZE2+ then I think you can look under the Michelin Truck tire specs.
http://www.michelintruck.com/michelintruck/tires-retreads/tireInfo.do?tread=XZE2%2B (http://www.michelintruck.com/michelintruck/tires-retreads/tireInfo.do?tread=XZE2%2B)
You may have to cut and paste this link.
Richard Aquino
Yahoo Message Number: 65252 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/65252)
I agree with you Lee. I love this forum because I pickup so may diverse ways of solving a problem or looking for answers. oh and turning your coach into a money pit at the same time.
Dallas
Yahoo Message Number: 65254 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/65254)
Dallas, great! One more fine point. You'll find the right side and left side tire/axle weights will be different. Use the weight and relevant pressure for the heavier side, on both sides.
Lee
Yahoo Message Number: 65260 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/65260)
I had a e-mail on weigh-in at Flying J . It's a no brainier easy as driving out of your driveway. Pull up to the scale and a posted sign will give you 2 options. Everyone stays in the coach, tow car can even stay on. You could even weigh the tow car if you wish.
A) call in via CB on there posted channel.
B) call on your cell phone.
Let them know what you want to weigh, you will be told to drive on and stop at there weigh points.
Pulling off the scale you can park or go to fuel pumps etc. When you go inside the weigh invoice will be there. Hand over the moo-la and that's it.
AL
00 Affinity
Yahoo Message Number: 65261 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/65261)
AL,
Try going through the main Michelin site. Follow the prompts and you will end up with a break down per rim size..ie 22.5. There lies detailed air pressure/axle load.
AL
00 Affinity
Yahoo Message Number: 65268 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/65268)
So what is the pressure chart under on the michelin web page? I just looked and cannot find it.
Bob Nuttmann
2002 42' Affinity
Yahoo Message Number: 65269 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/65269)
Here ya go Bob:
http://www.michelintruck.com/michelintruck/tires-retreads/load-inflation-tables.jsp (http://www.michelintruck.com/michelintruck/tires-retreads/load-inflation-tables.jsp)
Yahoo Message Number: 65277 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/65277)
No problem...
www. Michelin.com (http://www. Michelin.com) Select your country
arrow to North America
hit United States
hit recreational
hit load inflation tables
choose wheel dia...ie 22.5
scroll to your tire size
AL
00 affinity
Yahoo Message Number: 65285 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/65285)
If you are in Oregon and see a "closed" truck weigh station pull in and weigh for free. Oregon leaves the scales on. What about other states? Anyone know?
Jim
10613
Yahoo Message Number: 70258 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/70258)
Question?
If a tire is inflated to, let's say, 100 pounds at sea level will the pressure increase as the tire moves to higher elevations with the ambient temperature being the same 65 degrees at both locations?
Walt
2004 Country Coach
Yahoo Message Number: 70259 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/70259)
just the opposite: http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tiretech/techpage.jsp?techid=167 (http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tiretech/techpage.jsp?techid=167)
Roger Harper
2006 Intrigue
Yahoo Message Number: 70262 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/70262)
If you read the article you cited, you'll find the answer to Walt's question is yes. "Those (tires) measured at the 5,000-foot level (where an atmospheric pressure of only 12.2 pounds per square inch (vs. 14.7 at sea level) is the ambient pressure) would indicate about 2-3 psi higher than at sea level."
Nate Richards
04 Allure 31043
Yahoo Message Number: 70263 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/70263)
And, if you are visiting the higher altitude, don't fiddle with the PSI, 2-3 PSI is negligible (unless you are now in excess if your maximum wheel rim limit). Just leave it been, as your pressure will return to the same pressure before you went to altitude, when you drop to lower elevation.
Lee
--
Lee Zaborowski
07 Intrigue 12153, Cat C-13
Yahoo Message Number: 84718 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/84718)
I have seen posts that talks about tire pressure, what frustrates me is I run the coach down the road to add air and find that the tires are already warm and will not take the required air. Someof you have talked about a unit that does not take a week to reach a 120 lbs, What do you do?? Vic 03 Magna 6253
Yahoo Message Number: 84725 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/84725)
I use a Husky 200 psi compressor which is quieter and faster than most others I have seen. In the interim, check tires cold, note psi needed for each tire, then add that amount to each tire when they are warm. May not be exact, but close enough.
Larry, 03 Allure, 30856 30856
Yahoo Message Number: 84728 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/84728)
Hi Vic,
For home duty, I use a Porter Cable pancake 150 PSI. For on the road I bought from a fellow CC owner that was retiring from the road, his Bob Dickman Air Doubler along with the coaches air supply.
http://www.dickmantires.com/air_pressure/air_pressure_info_instructions.html (http://www.dickmantires.com/air_pressure/air_pressure_info_instructions.html)
I also agree that you can do the before start PSI check, and just plus the amount you are low when getting to the air supply.
If you have not done so, do get a four corner weight when ready to travel (full tank fuel, water, loaded for travel). Then look up your tire manufacturers PSI setting for the weight. Do this per axle, using the highest weight as the decision point. I also look at this weight, and if close to mid level or above on the chart range, take the next higher weight point's PSI. While I know that the tire manufacturers have safety cushions in this PSI amount, I also add 5 more PSI for my own contigency. Load shifts for going around corners, strong winds coming from the side, etc. all can add to the weight that the tires are carrying. Thus the 5 PSI setting cushion I choose to use.
For my coach, this is still 15PSI lower then the CC PSI setting level for the rear and tag, and 10PSI lower for the fronts.
Best of luck, be safe, and have fun, Smitty
04 Allure 40' with Tag, 31017
Yahoo Message Number: 84730 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/84730)
Vic
You are going to continue to be frustrated until you have your own on board air solution. I use the Dickman Tire air doubler. It is not cheap, but it is compact and I have plumbed it into the compartment where the compressor is located. In my coach it is under the driver's seat and very convenient.
It is not fast but certainly adequate when you are only adding a few pounds.
Dan 2006 Allure 31348
Yahoo Message Number: 84735 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/84735)
Viair 400P-RV Automatic
http://www.viaircorp.com/Industrial/400PA-RV.html (http://www.viaircorp.com/Industrial/400PA-RV.html) it gets the job done... not cheap but if you need 115 psi or so, you cannot use an ordinary tire inflation tool. and if you run your tires 20% underinflated for long, you have ruined them. I tried a 110 AC compressor first supposedly capable to 120 psi. tT could not do the job. The 12v Viair is neat because you can clip it on and walk away... and it has an inline gauge so you can keep an eye on it from a distance. As for the difference between cold and hot I have read the difference can be as much as 5-10 psi difference depending on the temperature differences. Bear in mind outside ambient temperature and elevation also make a difference. There's no substitute to having an accurate and reliable onboard air compressor for your expensive RV tires - my latest set of Michelin XZA-2's cost me $800+ *8. Gotta take good care of them
Joseph Burkle
2008 Country Coach Inspire 360 Founders Edition 43' quad slide tag axle 425 HP C9 pusher http://www. Wind-seeker.com/ (http://www. Wind-seeker.com/)
Yahoo Message Number: 84736 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/84736)
Vic I have had the Outback air system for several years. Great for topping pressure to 120. You can have it filled at any beer tap supply or fire extingisher shop. Lasts me almost a year.
http://www.outbackequipped.com (http://www.outbackequipped.com) Ned Herrmann
06 Inspire 51677
Yahoo Message Number: 86707 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/86707)
How often should I check my tire pressure? I've been sitting for a while and will be traveling for a month. What's some thoughts on buying a good portable air compressor, like some they have at lowe's? Thanks, John 03 Allure 30951
Yahoo Message Number: 86708 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/86708)
John - My BS on tire inflation, temperature and pressure is here: http://www.muniac.com/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=177#Post177 (http://www.muniac.com/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=177#Post177) It's work in progress and I'm due to take some readings when we get rolling in a month or so. Our Michelin XZA2 tires hold air very well. We sit for up to 6 months and they don't lose any appreciable air. That said, checking air pressure is always a good idea. Better to check it more often than not often enough. Unlike bicycle tires that have a small volume of air, checking doesn't appreciably change the pressure. You'll release a small puff of air from the tire when the tire chuck goes on/off the stem. Not even a consideration for a BIG bus tire.
My inflation method is documented in the article. Hope it helps.
Yahoo Message Number: 86709 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/86709)
I would purchase a good tire monitoring system, I bought a tire tracker system, then I would purchase a air hose long enough to service all the tires, attach a good PSI gauge to the end, with air fitting plug It in to the coupler in the front drivers side bay, and as you run the engine depress the brake pedal numerous times until the pressure goes down to about 50psi. then you can attach gauge to valve stem and watch pressure on gauge rise to desired PSI. Works great no need for extra compressor. Cost about $30 Jim
2006 Allure 430 #31317
Yahoo Message Number: 86752 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/86752)
I check mine everytime after I have been stationary for more than a few days.
TWI 2004 Intrigue 11731
Yahoo Message Number: 86754 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/86754)
I find our 12R Michelins XZE* tires lose PSI slowly. I check ours at the start of each trip with the gauge, then cross reference with the Smart Tire readings as soon as they send out a signal, within a few hundred yards. Pretty close, within 3 PSI, except the right inside drive is off by 4 PSI.
I visually inspect the coach, toad, all tires at each stop. And use infrared temp sensor at each fuel fill up.
I do a manual tire gauge check once a week, usually OK. I also try to factor temp and altitude.
Though slow, your onboard compressor system might cover you. Running the engine seems to help, vs just the electric. I bought a used air doubler, but have not yet used it. Smaller then another air compressor.
Good luck as you learn how your tires PSI changes for you.
Smitty
04 Allure 31017