Second spare tire for FW?
We are heading from Maine to Alaska this summer. DW and I are discussing the need for a second spare for our fifthwheel. Most of our trip will be on pavement. We are not going on the Top of The World ...
Forum Discussion
Over the 51 years I have been driving the Alaska Hwy, I have seen more tire problems on trailers than any other type of RV. There are very few, if any, regulations on the running gear of trailers, either TT or 5 th wheel. For many years the running gear on many trailers was just too small and too easy to overload. These days the builders appear to be doing a better job with sizing the tires and axles on trailers.
One or two spare tires? What is your confidence level on your current set of tires? When we bought our 2011 5 th wheel, it came with load range C tires, made in China. Ran them for a year but was never comfortable with them so replaced them with a set of load range E tires. A set of Maxxis made in Thailand. With the new tires I am much more comfortable. Most OEM tires that come on trailers were bought at low bid by the trailer builder. Did they buy the best tires that China builds? I doubt that they did.
I would carry one mounted spare and probably one Unmounted tire, plus a tire patch kit and air compressor. Last trip in 2011, I had a flat tire on my truck, a Dodge SRW model and didn't have my 12 volt compressor with me. The only trip I have not taken a compressor with me. LOL
For the truck, I just carry the one mounted spare. (Remember to check the air pressure in the spare also, not saying why I mention this :)
Many of the road houses and small stations will be ale o fix or mount a tire if you have one with you. Doesn't even have to be a new tire, just one that will hold air and get you to the next place you can buy one.
I have been caught between wash outs on the Alcan before, and had to wait a few days on the road, but never because of needing tires or other parts. There are sure many worst places to have to spend a few days or a week than on the Alaska Highway. Just keep a few days supply of food and drinks on board, and go with the flow of whatever happens.
One or two spare tires? What is your confidence level on your current set of tires? When we bought our 2011 5 th wheel, it came with load range C tires, made in China. Ran them for a year but was never comfortable with them so replaced them with a set of load range E tires. A set of Maxxis made in Thailand. With the new tires I am much more comfortable. Most OEM tires that come on trailers were bought at low bid by the trailer builder. Did they buy the best tires that China builds? I doubt that they did.
I would carry one mounted spare and probably one Unmounted tire, plus a tire patch kit and air compressor. Last trip in 2011, I had a flat tire on my truck, a Dodge SRW model and didn't have my 12 volt compressor with me. The only trip I have not taken a compressor with me. LOL
For the truck, I just carry the one mounted spare. (Remember to check the air pressure in the spare also, not saying why I mention this :)
Many of the road houses and small stations will be ale o fix or mount a tire if you have one with you. Doesn't even have to be a new tire, just one that will hold air and get you to the next place you can buy one.
I have been caught between wash outs on the Alcan before, and had to wait a few days on the road, but never because of needing tires or other parts. There are sure many worst places to have to spend a few days or a week than on the Alaska Highway. Just keep a few days supply of food and drinks on board, and go with the flow of whatever happens.
