Question:
Dear Robert,  
We have a 2009 Winnebago View 24H, 16-inch rims. I understand how important checking the tire air pressure is. However, the valve stems are nearly out of reach. Just getting the valve caps off and on is a major task. I discovered that Camping World sells extenders. The front wheels valve stems are reachable, however, the rear duals are not. A 2-inch extender for the inside valves and a C-shaped extender for the outside valves looks like it would allow reach. What is your advice on mounting the extenders, and do you have any guidance about how to work with short valve stems?
 
Albert Franklin
Tacoma, Washington

Answer:
I know the frustration it creates when you can’t check the air pressure on your tires. This problem is usually related to the stainless steel wheel liners that make the hole used to access the valve even smaller.  The solid steel extenders and/or solid steel stems are my favorite way to deal it. You may opt for the stainless steel hoses that are available, however, you must be very careful to maintain the air pressure religiously. We have seen more than one inner dual that was flat because the steel hose had come loose and the tire lost air. The long, curved full steel stems we have used were made by Borg, and the tire had to be dismounted.  Definitely more work, but we don’t have to worry about them coming loose if they are properly installed.  Correct tire pressure really is an important issue, and there are some options to help you make sure this is maintained, such as tire pressure monitors or the Crossfire inner-to-outer dual wheel pressure equalizers. Do you have a question related to alignment, steering, handling, braking, fuel economy, tires, safety and maintenance of your RV? Robert Henderson, the president of Henderson’s Line-Up Brake and RV and SuperSteer/SuperStop products in Grants Pass, Oregon, is available to answer questions from readers. You may send your questions by e-mail to editor@rvlife.com.