1908

[harpoon-KEY]

Yep, 1908, that's the birthdate of my Marathons, as in the nineteenth week of 2008. Yikes. When I picked up my camper in March, the dealer had put bran-spankin' new tires on the rig. Not taking any chances with safety, ya know. We are leaving for our first real camping trip this weekend and while checking tire pressures, I noticed the born-on date. Now, I'm already nervous enough about these timebombs, but now I discover my new tires are 5 years old. Yikes again. I've been reading all the horror stories on this web-site and I've checked my rims (110psi) for capabilities, so as to upgrade, but it's just not in the budget right now. Some unexpected expenses arose this spring and I've got to live with these tires for the short term at least. So I'll keep the speed down and check the tires often for anything unusual as well as pressure. Hope for the best, that's all. Maybe I'll be one of the lucky ones. We'll see.....

 

[NCFischers]

You can put a good set of LT tires on the rig. I've got Michelin LTXs.

 

[HOOK-MOC]

Like Jim said, light truck radials are good. The G614s are light truck tires, just very expensive. I guess the four Marathon failures in one year, and GY's offer to let me upgrade was a blessing of sorts. Otherwise, I would gone to a reasonably priced light truck tire in a good load range. I hope for you that you are lucky.
I have asked our GM to order all our Montana's with G tires, it makes for good customer relations. Besides, these RVs are the top of the line. IMHO, people who would turn down a deal because of the difference in the price of tires are not wide awake. And sales people who can't sell that point are in the wrong business.

 

[DQDick]

Old tires on new rigs isn't unusual. My 2010 was made at the end of the model year and yet had beginning of the year 2009 Marathons on it. Good luck, and as Jim and Larry have mentioned a good LT tire is a great alternative.

 

[BusyC]

Have fun on your first trip! I know the budget doesn't allow for new tires (I know that situation) but would it allow for a tire pressure monitoring system? We have the TST version and we love it. It may just give you a little extra peace of mind. I know it sure has helped us. They are available at Camping World and at many RV stores.

Have a great time!

 

[CORattler]

We wish you the very best of luck with the Marthons. We understand financial considerations. Sounds like you have good awareness and a plan. Happy journeys!!

 

[Jlb27537]

I just bought the TST tire monitor system. I have only towed it about 10 miles, but I was amazed at the pressure change in just that short distance.

$239 for a set of 4. Ordered on a Saturday and got them the next Tuesday. They show out of stock right now, but I am sure they will have more.
http://shop.greatrvproducts.com/507...itoring-System-w-Repl-Batteries-TPMS507-4.htm

If you do decide to replace your tires, consider the Bridgestone Durvis 250. A all steel tire and a bit less expensive than a XPS Rib.

Jim