Time For New Tires ?

[wht2500hd...]

Have 28,000 miles (2003, June). Tires have cracks on the sides. Is it from hitting the curb or from the sun ? Or are they cheap tires (is Bridgestone same as Firestone ?)

 

Spare tire has smaller cracks and has never been used or exposed to sunlight.

 

Bridgestone V RIB STEEL 265 (245X75R16)

 

Should I replace them ? I tow 7500 lbs.

[ursandal]

Have 28,000 miles (2003, June). Tires have cracks on the sides. Is it from hitting the curb or from the sun ? Or are they cheap tires (is Bridgestone same as Firestone ?)

 

Spare tire has smaller cracks and has never been used or exposed to sunlight.

 

Bridgestone V RIB STEEL 265 (245X75R16)

 

Should I replace them ? I tow 7500 lbs.

 

I think this is one of those if you're asking the question you already know the answer. I wouldn't take the chance of a blow out. Although you only have 28k on the tires you got 5 yrs out of 'em. If they are cracking it probably just a sign of old age, not necessarily cheap tires. All my opinion ofcourse...

[ak63]

With towable RV's the rule is to replace tires every 3 to 5 years, regardless of mileage, because of UV damage etc. If you have cracks they should be replaced (it is probably from UV damage). Towing places more stress on tires eg an additional 10% to 20% of the trailer weight on the rear axle. Do you want (at best) a flat or (at worst) an out of control vehicle while driving down a downgrade?

[Zembonez]

Age is as important as mileage when it comes to tires. Rubber hardens and cracks over time... especially when they are exposed to the weather. If you have cracks around the bead of the tires, I'd replace them. Why take a chance?