Tire flat spots

[Showme_5vr]

We are planning on taking a small trip this summer. The camper has been setting in the same spot at an RV park for 2 years now. Is flat spotting of the tires a thing? How long does it take for this to happen? If I were to jack up each side and spin the tire would this help? Thanks for your input.

[prichardson]

Date code 2016 and we are already in the 10th week of 2020. Those tires are entering their 4th year. I would replace them because of age.

[olfarmer]

I would check the pressure and look them over for cracks, radials don't flat spot as bad as bias ply but after 2 years they probably have some. It may take a few miles but they should come out of it, just take it easy for a while. I agree, check everything on the coach out and take a test drive before taking off on a long trip.

[jkwilson]

JimK-NY wrote:
Covering the tires does little good. Tires will dry rot due to exposure to the air. Not using tires is very hard on them. Tires are designed to be used, develop heat and then chemicals within the tire work to the surface to protect the tires.

I almost learned this lesson the hard way. I had a spare tire that had been under the bed of my pickup for 4 years. I decided to put it into rotation along with a newly purchased tire on the other side of the axle. Everything was fine. I spent a couple of weeks getting ready for my trip and then noticed the weight on the tire had caused severe cracks to form. I would be very cautious about tires that had been sitting for 2 years.

The primary cause of damage to tires is exposure to sunlight. Covering them is critical to avoiding deterioration when sitting outside.

[CapriRacer]

Without a doubt, the tires are flatspotted - the question is, are the flatspots bad enough to cause a problem.

Flat spotting is a function of how much load is on the tires vs how much inflation pressure, the length of time, and the temperature. Unless the tires are resting in a contoured cradle, it doesn't matter what surface the tires are resting on.

The only way to be sure if it is a problem is to drive on them - and if they are a problem, will the flatspots work themselves out? Maybe.

So for those who want to know how to prevent (minimize?) flatspots, taking the load off the tires is the best - like removing the tires from the vehicle. Over inflating them is helpful. (You can over inflate tires by 20 psi without fear of explosion, but don't operate the tires at that pressure!) Moving the vehicle periodically is also helpful (that is resting the tires in a different spot - even 3 inches is enough!)

[JimK-NY]

Covering the tires does little good. Tires will dry rot due to exposure to the air. Not using tires is very hard on them. Tires are designed to be used, develop heat and then chemicals within the tire work to the surface to protect the tires.

I almost learned this lesson the hard way. I had a spare tire that had been under the bed of my pickup for 4 years. I decided to put it into rotation along with a newly purchased tire on the other side of the axle. Everything was fine. I spent a couple of weeks getting ready for my trip and then noticed the weight on the tire had caused severe cracks to form. I would be very cautious about tires that had been sitting for 2 years.

[Chum_lee]

Whatever you decide to do, make sure you check/adjust/balance the air pressures before you do anything. In two years, anything can happen.

Chum lee

[MFL]

Showme 5vr wrote:
Tire date code is 2016, tires are sitting on 2X10’s. Tires are covered and are radials.

I would look them over closely, especially at area sitting on. If they look good, I think they will, as you took good care of them, then I'd use them.

Agree with above, the brake drums can get a little rusty, from lack of use. They will get better the more you use them. If you have the time/experience, or want to hire a mobile tech, it would be reassuring to have the hubs pulled, all inspected, brakes, bearings, suspension, and tires.

Jerry

[Grit_dog]

May I direct you to the LT vs ST tire thread next door? haha

Seriously, sitting for 2 years, I'd want to do a shakedown run anyway before hitting the road. Get them tires rounded up again.

[jkwilson]

They might rumble a little for the first few miles, but it will go away. I’d be more concerned with the brakes after sitting so long.

[Showme_5vr]

Tire date code is 2016, tires are sitting on 2X10’s. Tires are covered and are radials.

[MFL]

Your not giving much info to get good advice. How old are the tires? What surface have they been sitting on for 2 yrs? Are they bias, or radial? All tires will dry rot, but radial tires are less likely to flat spot. I'd find the bottom spot, look between the tread for any cracks, or signs of rot. If they are only 2 yrs old, parked on a solid surface, no standing water, they should be okay. If more than 5 yrs old, parked on the dirt, they need to be replaced.

Jerry

[kellem]

Flat spots will work themselves out but mice and other rodents could be a concern, just sitting.