Explain DOT Tire Certification
I'm researching tire prices for a set of 295/80R 22.5 tires. The prices vary "all over the place" from the "junk" Chinese brands to $800-$900 for American brands like Goodyear. When someone posts on h...
Forum Discussion
All RV and truck tires have to be certified by the DOT but that does not mean they are all equal. On passenger car tires, information is molded on the side of the tires that give tread wear, speed rating, traction, and temperature rating so that you can tell the difference from one tire to another. For instance a tire that has a treadwear rating of 400 should last twice as long as a tire with a treadwear rating of 200, from the SAME manufacturer. A traction rating of AA should be better than a rating of A.
Unfortunately with RV tires, you get when they were made, the load rating, speed rating, the number of plies, and that is about it. So basically you are on your own to make a choice.
Keep this in mind, when replacing old tires on your coach. The old tires are worn and the rubber has hardened. ANY brand of new tires will immediately ride smoother because the rubber is softer and the tread is deeper. Only TIME will tell if it turns out to be a better tire than the one you just replaced. First ride impressions are not a valid indicator.
Unfortunately with RV tires, you get when they were made, the load rating, speed rating, the number of plies, and that is about it. So basically you are on your own to make a choice.
Keep this in mind, when replacing old tires on your coach. The old tires are worn and the rubber has hardened. ANY brand of new tires will immediately ride smoother because the rubber is softer and the tread is deeper. Only TIME will tell if it turns out to be a better tire than the one you just replaced. First ride impressions are not a valid indicator.
