Tire covers

[Taxman2436]

The TT I purchased came with tire covers. I’m wondering should I use them and if so, when?

-Lenny

[jdc1]

HEY! Don't use that 303 on motorcycle tires. That's like greasing up a pig. Ask me how I know....LOL. It may make them look pretty, but......

[Taxman2436]

Wow, I had no idea. Thanks for all the replies!

[JimK-NY]

Covers provide minimal protection. Sure they protect against UV rays but that still leaves dry rotting due to oxidation. I learned that when I tried to use a tire that had been stored under my pick up for 4 years. Obviously no direct light had ever hit that tire. Even so it was dry rotted. It looked OK until I put it on the truck and left it for a few days with my camper loaded. By then cracks appeared everywhere. Subsequently I learned tires need to be used. Chemicals embedded in the rubber work their way to the surface and provide protection.

Another option that has not been well studied is the use of Aerospace 303 protectant. This will provide some sealing against oxidation as well as providing some UV protection. 303 needs to be replaced every few weeks. In addition you need to start with clean tires and coat both inner and outer surfaces. Avoid getting too much on the thread as it will cause loss of traction.

[kellem]

Used tire covers for 10 years on previous trailer,they work.
I protected the tire covers which looked relatively new after 10 years with 303 uv protectant.

So that got me thinking....I've been now treating the tires with 303 and forgone the covers.

[ReneeG]

Yes, use them. They'll protect your tires. We keep them on our tires when parked at home. On the road we don't worry about it because we're usually not in one spot longer than a week. Hopefully they are white or light as studies have shown that black ones retain heat.

[Beverley_Ken]

Yes, use them. I have used them all the time when parked, the covers finally fell apart from the UV rays after 8 years. A year later the previously crack free tires started cracking badly. The tires did last for 9 years. They were checked yearly after the 5th year.

Ken

[Lwiddis]

Parked over three days, I cover. UV rays are not your friend.

[LadyRVer]

I always keep my tires covered unless just an overnight stop or up to about 3 days. Anything over that, they are covered from any elements.