You set RV tire pressure using actual weights, not sidewall maximums: find GVWR/GAWR, get per‑wheel axle weights at a CAT scale, then match each tire’s load to the manufacturer’s load/inflation chart to calculate cold PSI. Inflate both tires on an axle to the higher side’s PSI, check pressures cold with a calibrated gauge, do a short drive and recheck, and monitor TPMS for changes — continue for step‑by‑step procedures and troubleshooting tips.

Find Your RV Weights: GVWR, GAWR and Per‑Wheel Weighing

Before you set tire pressures, know exactly what your RV is carrying: GVWR gives the vehicle’s maximum allowed total weight, GAWR tells you the limit for each axle, and per-wheel weighing reveals the real load on every tire. You’ll locate the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating and each Gross Axle Weight Rating on the vehicle placard, then plan to verify actual weight by weighing the RV at each wheel position. Use CAT scales or equivalent to get precise readings so you can calculate individual tire loads and detect uneven distribution. With those numbers, consult tire manufacturers’ inflation charts to derive proper inflation for each tire based on its measured load, not guesswork. Respecting maximum weight limits and matching pressure to measured loads reduces heat buildup, wear, and failure risk. You’ll gain freedom by mastering weight, freeing your travels from avoidable breakdowns while keeping safety uncompromised.

Match Tire Markings to the Manufacturer Load/Inflation Chart

With per-wheel weights in hand, match each tire’s sidewall code—like ST235/80R16—to the manufacturer’s load/inflation chart so you can set the correct cold PSI for the actual load on that tire. Read the tire markings to identify width, aspect ratio, construction and rim diameter; these parameters link directly to the load/inflation chart entries. After you weigh the RV at each corner, locate the chart row for that exact tire sidewall designation and find the recommended PSI for the measured per-wheel load. Don’t assume the maximum cold tire pressure stamped on the tire equals the correct setting; that number is a limit, not a target. Compensate for uneven weight distribution by using the per-wheel values from your weigh-the-RV data. Record recommended PSI values and apply proper inflation when cold. Follow the chart consistently to preserve safety and improve tire longevity while maintaining freedom to travel confidently.

Calculate Each Tire’s Cold PSI (Use the Heaviest‑Side Rule)

Once you’ve weighed each corner of your RV and matched the sidewall code to the manufacturer’s load/inflation chart, calculate cold PSI for every tire by applying the heaviest‑side rule: inflate both tires on an axle to the PSI required for the heavier of the two loads. Weighing gives you each tire’s individual load; reference the manufacturer’s load inflation tables to convert that load to the correct PSI. Use a calibrated tire pressure gauge to measure cold PSI—check pressures before driving so heat doesn’t skew readings. On tandem axles, set both tires to the PSI corresponding to the heavier tire so axle loads stay balanced. Follow manufacturer recommendations for maximums and periodic rechecks whenever load changes. Properly applying the heaviest‑side rule preserves tire performance, reduces heat buildup, and maximizes safety. You’re freeing yourself from guesswork by making objective, repeatable adjustments that protect your RV tires and everyone on board.

Inflate and Verify: Cold Checks, Short Drive Test, and TPMS Tips

Having set each tire to the cold PSI dictated by the heaviest‑side rule, verify those pressures and confirm system performance before you hit the road. Perform cold checks with a calibrated gauge on every recommended tire, confirming each axle’s tires match and meet the maximum load rating pressure you calculated. Complete inflation to the specified PSI, then arm your TPMS and inspect sensors for faults or low-battery alerts. Take a short drive of 10–15 miles at normal speeds to seat the tires; after parking and allowing them to cool, recheck pressures cold to verify values didn’t drift. If TPMS reports changes during the run, pull over and inspect immediately. Regularly verifying tire pressure before long trips prevents blowouts and reduces uneven tire wear that limits freedom on the road. Adopt this routine as a liberty‑preserving discipline: accurate inflation, functional TPMS, and documented cold checks keep you safe and unencumbered.

Avoid Mistakes and Troubleshoot Uneven or Incorrect Pressure

Because incorrect pressure and uneven inflation create immediate safety hazards, you should routinely check for and correct mismatches before every trip. Check RV tires cold; pressure rises about 10% after driving and will mask underinflation. Use the certification label and calculate inflation pressure from actual Gross Axle Weight; set PSI to support the heaviest tire on the axle so all tires share load.

If you see uneven tread, vibration, or TPMS alerts, rebalance loads, equalize pressures, and inspect for damage. Corrective action reduces tire wear and risk of tire failure, freeing you to travel safely and confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Pressure Should I Run in My RV Tires?

Run your RV tires at the manufacturer’s recommended psi (61 psi for a 2019 Coachman Galleria 24t), balancing tire pressure basics, ideal tire inflation, RV tire maintenance, pressure monitoring systems, seasonal tire adjustments, weight distribution effects, tire wear patterns, choosing tire types, air pressure tools, RV safety tips.

What Is the 4 PSI Rule?

Think of it as your tires’ thermostat: the 4 psi rule says pressure shifts ~1 psi per 10°F. You’ll use pressure gauges, monitor temperature effects, adjust inflation methods, consider load distribution, tire maintenance, tread wear, driving habits, safety tips.

How Does Tire Pressure Affect Load Rating?

Tire pressure directly sets load capacity: you must guarantee inflation accuracy to maintain weight distribution and safety margin; otherwise heat buildup increases, worsening tire wear, braking distance, handling stability, fuel efficiency and overall road performance.

What Is the 5 PSI Rule?

Like a knight’s code, the 5 PSI rule says you’ll adjust tire pressure about ±5 PSI from cold manufacturer specs to account for temperature and load; it guides safety tips, pressure monitoring, inflation methods, towing considerations, RV maintenance.

Conclusion

You’ve learned to weigh your RV, match tire markings to the manufacturer chart, and calculate each tire’s cold PSI using the heaviest‑side rule. Inflate, verify cold, perform a short drive test, and use TPMS to monitor. Avoid common mistakes and troubleshoot uneven pressures promptly — remember, “measure twice, cut once.” Prioritizing correct pressure keeps loads supported, heat minimized, and blowouts prevented, so check pressures before every trip for safe operation.