tires for 2001 airstream 19 bambi

[rpchristen]

I recently had a flat tire on my bambi and had a hard time getting the tire off to get it fixed. then I had a harder time getting the fixed tire in the trailer when it was full of air. getting the tire between the axle and the wheel well was a struggle as there was very little space between. I emailed airstream of this problem because I thought that the origanial onwer had put oversize tires on ,but found out they were the proper tires for the trailer. anyone have any sugessions as how to make this an easier fix?

[lewster]

Do not inflate the tire until it is on the trailer.

I went with 225/75-16 tires on my 19CCD and the only way they would clear the hub was to put them, then inflate them. Deflate before you remove them also.

A bit of a PIA, but it worked and the tires fit the wheel well nicely when on.

[easyride]

Could you possible have a bad axle,allowing the hub to stay too far up in the fender well? That`s what I encounter dealing with these old trailers.Dave

[Kathleenh]

The tires on our 2001 Bambi are original. The treads are still pretty good but I am wondering if the rubber deteriorates regardless of how much use they get. My DH thinks everything is just fine but I like extra reassurance.

Should we get new ones now or just keep an eye on the treads?

[Phoenix]

Your tires are going on 11 years old, and they are past due for replacement. If we ever get a pair to survive without a blowout or tread separation, we will change ours every 4-5 years. Southwest desert highways are really hard on tires, as is obvious by all of the alligators on the roads in the summer. However, even in your milder weather, I wouldn't go any longer on your tires, unless your Airstream is permanently parked. For more information (and opinions), search "TIRES" on this site.

[Kathleenh]

Phoenix, thanks!

[tpi]

Originally Posted by Kathleenh

The tires on our 2001 Bambi are original. The treads are still pretty good but I am wondering if the rubber deteriorates regardless of how much use they get. My DH thinks everything is just fine but I like extra reassurance.

Should we get new ones now or just keep an eye on the treads?

Get new ones. Frequently tire failures cause lots of collateral damage such as bent sheet metal, impinging on the tanks and plumbing, etc. which can be plenty expensive to fix.

[Kathleenh]

Tpi, I am very anxious about this. People look at the tires say they 'seem fine' which my DH takes to mean we needn't bother right now. I'd rather do it now than wait for a blowout. I'll have to work on him some more. We did just replace all four tires on our tow vehicle which cost a bundle and he isn't in the mood to talk about replacing the A/S tires but I think we need to do that.
Thanks for the enlightening comments, all.