Trailer Tire Pressure/Temp Sensors

I think its an excellent idea! When towing, I'm always looking in the mirrors for that surprise tire failure!

It's proven technology so I don't see why they wouldn't work. Only issue might be the distance back to the trailer and interference with the existing system on your tow vehicle... but I'm sure they would have tested for both.
 
Speaking as someone who has managed tractor and trailer fleets, correct tire pressure is critical not only to safe operation, but also optimum tire life. That being said, gizmos like the one in the link are in my opinion a waste of money. Buy a good and accurate: tire gauge, IR temp gun and possibly a battery powered inflater. Then follow a pre-trip regimen of checking pressures before starting out, and in hot weather/long trips stop on a regular basis and monitor tire temps.

Henry
 
I haven't used a system like that so I can't give any specific feedback. But, the reason I haven't used one is that I haven't found the need. Like Henry said, a good tire gauge is the key. I do have an IR gun, but for the most part, I just rely on my hand. Any time we stop I take a quick walk around the trailer to visually inspect the tires and at the same time I feel both the tire tread and the hubs. If anything doesn't look/feel right, then I'll check pressure and add if necessary. I'll then keep a better eye on the suspect tire.

One thing that I WOULD be concerned about, in regards to that add-on system, is water intrusion. I looked quickly on their website, but didn't see anything pertaining to "waterproofness"... ie: dunking in water at the ramp. Hot items being dunked in cold water is A LOT different than being sprayed from the road.
 
After talking with manufacturer and reading other RV and boating trailer forums (Offshoreonly, Hull Truth, etc.) the units are fully watertight when submerging trailer. I tow between 7K - 12K miles a year and regularly do all of the inspections and tests before/during/after travel. Last summer I checked everything at a rest area (all hubs/tires cool) and 10 minutes later a blow out that was due to tire heat. The key is when driving 2-4 hrs without stopping, any bearing or other issue will imediately increase the tire temp as a pre-warning. Boat US trailer assist always at hand ... but I like anything that could/will provide a pre-warning before failure and this seemed to get the best reviews for the price. Was just interested if anyone over here had ever seen or used. Thanks all.
 
I here where you're coming from. You certainly can't go "wrong" by having this installed and I'm sure it works as advertised. Will it be accurate? It says it is - but I'd still have to check it myself a few times until I grew a "comfort level" with it. I do a lot of towing with my own boat (sometimes 8+ hours at a time), plus what I (and others) do at the marina. We've never found the need for one, but in the end it's what matters to you. If you feel the benefits outweigh the cost, then that's all that's important. Certainly, there are products out there that are BAD ideas, but this isn't that - just more of a personal preference. Good luck!

I will say that if I used that system I would probably find a better mounting spot for the display than suctioned-cupped to the windshield - I don't like things that block my vision.
 
I don't know about Henry or Dennis, but I've had several GM vehicles with this technology and they are accurate. It sure is convenient to be able to glance at the pressures periodically on long trips. You can't hardly buy a decent new vehicle without it.
 
Jim,

I didn't say it was inaccurate, I said in my opinion it was a waste of money. Yes, I am aware that similar technology is available on most new vehicles. I won't pay extra for that as well. But I guess on that I don't have a choice because the government in its infinite wisdom doesn't think I'm competent to maintain my own vehicle (or operate a tire gauge).

On commercial vehicles with air brakes, auto inflating systems are a better choice as they constantly maintain correct pressures, and in the process save a great deal of labor in the course of a year. I prefer to spec Meritor axles as the whole axle can be ordered pre configured with brakes, inflation system, bearings, hubs and drums.

Henry
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Forum statistics

Threads
113,238
Messages
1,429,079
Members
61,119
Latest member
KenBoat
Back
Top