Tires are manufactured with different types of tread for different driving conditions. Tires used in hot climates have higher heat ratings than tires sold in cooler locations, and some Class C tires have tread that makes it easier to drive in mud or snow. Tires show ratings embossed on the outside of the tire indicating the tread, temperature rating and traction. Choosing the right type of tire helps the driver handle the vehicle under typical driving conditions. Tires without enough tread are a danger to both the motor home occupants and passengers in other vehicles. The FMVSS specifies that tires need to be replaced when the tread measures 1/16 inch or less.
All tires have weight-load limits and making sure that the load inside the Class C motor home stays below the capacity of the tires is an important safety concern. Drivers can find the load limit by looking at the specifications on their tires. Each tire has a string of numbers that specify the maximum amount of pressure the tires can hold, as well as the weight load. Each tire on a motor home gives the weight for both single tires and dual tires.
The tire has its manufacturing date printed on it. This information lets drivers know how old the tire is, an important safety consideration. Old tires can blow when the sidewalls crack because of sun exposure and age. The tire manufacturing dates on Class C tires are at the end of the string of numbers, and sometimes manufacturers place the numbers in a box making them easier to find. The first two numbers in the string indicate the week of the year in which they were manufactured, and the last two indicate the year they were made. Because motor homes often sit for long periods, some owners cover the outside of their tires to prevent the sun from degrading the exposed tire walls.
