Title: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Joe Shirley on May 08, 2012, 09:01:31 pm
Post by: Joe Shirley on May 08, 2012, 09:01:31 pm
Am interested in everyone's experience, thoughts, recommendations about tire pressure monitoring systems. Seems like lots of confusion about the need for same and companies offering systems. Would appreciate any comments or contributions.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: George Hatfield on May 08, 2012, 09:08:19 pm
Post by: George Hatfield on May 08, 2012, 09:08:19 pm
We have used Pressure Pro since 2006 and it has worked well for us. For me, the big advantage of these systems is that it allows one to detect a low tire quickly and without a lot of manual checking. Will it prevent a blowout? Who knows? But under inflated tires can lead to blowouts, so we use a monitoring system. The customer support from Pressure Pro has been very good. No complaints. We use sensors on the coach and toad.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: J. D. Stevens on May 08, 2012, 09:25:13 pm
Post by: J. D. Stevens on May 08, 2012, 09:25:13 pm
My experience with TPMS is included in this thread. A Tire Story (http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=14249.msg82116#msg82116)
We tried TPMS and decided to stop using it. Other folk would not travel without TPMS.
You may wish to search the forum for TST, Pressure Pro, and TPMS. There have been several comments regarding TPMS.
We tried TPMS and decided to stop using it. Other folk would not travel without TPMS.
You may wish to search the forum for TST, Pressure Pro, and TPMS. There have been several comments regarding TPMS.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: David Bethard on May 08, 2012, 09:25:47 pm
Post by: David Bethard on May 08, 2012, 09:25:47 pm
I'm using Truck System Technologies, works fine on my 40 ft coach with no external antenna required.
http://www.tsttruck.com/Truck_Tire_Systems.html (http://www.tsttruck.com/Truck_Tire_Systems.html)
No matter which system you choose, get one and use it.
If you have a flat on your toad you won't know it without a pressure sensing system. The coach will drag the car on the rims and you wont feel a thing. Tires and magnesium/aluminum wheels will catch fire if dragged far enough.
If one of the duals fail you may not realize it until the second overloaded tire fails.
One flat will make you a believer.
http://www.tsttruck.com/Truck_Tire_Systems.html (http://www.tsttruck.com/Truck_Tire_Systems.html)
No matter which system you choose, get one and use it.
If you have a flat on your toad you won't know it without a pressure sensing system. The coach will drag the car on the rims and you wont feel a thing. Tires and magnesium/aluminum wheels will catch fire if dragged far enough.
If one of the duals fail you may not realize it until the second overloaded tire fails.
One flat will make you a believer.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: wolfe10 on May 08, 2012, 09:30:15 pm
Post by: wolfe10 on May 08, 2012, 09:30:15 pm
I am with George (well, not actually-- we are back in Texas).
We also have the PressurePro on coach and toad.
When researching TPMS, I did not want the least expensive "cheap import knockoff" marketed by a company who will sell them until their supply runs out and then switch to another system.
PressurePro is an American company, in business for a long time and their equipment is American made.
They are not the only one who fits those criteria, but they met my requirements. Would buy them again.
Brett
We also have the PressurePro on coach and toad.
When researching TPMS, I did not want the least expensive "cheap import knockoff" marketed by a company who will sell them until their supply runs out and then switch to another system.
PressurePro is an American company, in business for a long time and their equipment is American made.
They are not the only one who fits those criteria, but they met my requirements. Would buy them again.
Brett
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Barry & Cindy on May 08, 2012, 10:04:02 pm
Post by: Barry & Cindy on May 08, 2012, 10:04:02 pm
Pressure Pro all the way. Monitoring 24/7 our motorhome and Jeep. Accurate well designed.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Barry Beam on May 08, 2012, 10:18:37 pm
Post by: Barry Beam on May 08, 2012, 10:18:37 pm
Add one more satisfied customer.
We have been using Pressure Pro since 2003 & very pleased with its performance.
We have been using Pressure Pro since 2003 & very pleased with its performance.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Brad Metzger (RIP) on May 09, 2012, 06:33:49 am
Post by: Brad Metzger (RIP) on May 09, 2012, 06:33:49 am
When i bought the 2006 Phenix , i also bought the Pressrue Pro system . I installed them , next day had 2 flat tires . Pumped tires back up , next day flat tires again .Removed system and ran without them . When we bought the 2010 Phenix , it came with the coach and installed in the glass dash system .So far i am a happy camper with them .Might just not be smart enough to screw them on properly .Don't know how you could install them wrong but i must have done just that . Brad Metzger
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Steve & Kathy B on May 09, 2012, 06:57:14 am
Post by: Steve & Kathy B on May 09, 2012, 06:57:14 am
I too would not be without a pressure pro (or equivalent) . It's really nice to turn it on and just check your tire pressure. I would recommend carrying an extra sensor with you as a back up. Sometime a repeater is needed as well.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Steve and Anna Lindemann on May 09, 2012, 07:17:15 am
Post by: Steve and Anna Lindemann on May 09, 2012, 07:17:15 am
We have had Pressure Pro on our 5th wheel and then our Foretravel Nimbus. Started in 2003 with Pressure Pro and would not drive without them. I do use a repeater made by Pressure Pro to get a good reading from the toad.
I have also seen many improvements with Pressure Pro. Thread leaking was a past problem and sometimes you need to monitor the needle valve in the valve stem to be sure that is not coming out when unscrewing the Pressure Pro. If you do find the needle valve on the valve stem coming out, a simple valve stem tool can screw it back in tight. This is a usual problem and needs to be watched.
I also have sent back old Pressure Pro sending units for new batteries. They install the battery and send you the unit back. Check with Pressure Pro on the color date code to determine how old the sending unit is currently.
I have also seen many improvements with Pressure Pro. Thread leaking was a past problem and sometimes you need to monitor the needle valve in the valve stem to be sure that is not coming out when unscrewing the Pressure Pro. If you do find the needle valve on the valve stem coming out, a simple valve stem tool can screw it back in tight. This is a usual problem and needs to be watched.
I also have sent back old Pressure Pro sending units for new batteries. They install the battery and send you the unit back. Check with Pressure Pro on the color date code to determine how old the sending unit is currently.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Dave and Nancy Abel on May 09, 2012, 08:19:00 am
Post by: Dave and Nancy Abel on May 09, 2012, 08:19:00 am
Howdy Joe,
Here's a link to a discussion string on the the TireTraker:
TireTraker (http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=14772.msg87248#msg87248)
Good Luck, Dave Abel
Here's a link to a discussion string on the the TireTraker:
TireTraker (http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=14772.msg87248#msg87248)
Good Luck, Dave Abel
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Dan Stansel on May 09, 2012, 08:25:41 am
Post by: Dan Stansel on May 09, 2012, 08:25:41 am
Used the pressure pro since 08 have not had to replace any batteries etc. Still works ok today. The readings seemed off but now have finally gotten back to the reading I am getting on my gauge (within 1 or 2) I really have a little piece of mind and on the toad it is essential. Have the repeater. I start with 100 in cold front tires and after several miles will read 110, 90 on duals and they will read about 100. So the heat rises in my tires about 10 degrees. DAN
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Chad and Judy on May 09, 2012, 08:51:58 am
Post by: Chad and Judy on May 09, 2012, 08:51:58 am
As with quite a few others, I'm very pleased with Pressure-Pro; good product, excellent support. I had a sensor stolen off our tow'd recently (first time in over ten-years) and Vanessa sent me a new one at their replacement price (as opposed to "new") Great folks!
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: LBoyd on May 09, 2012, 12:11:20 pm
Post by: LBoyd on May 09, 2012, 12:11:20 pm
I use Tire Minder and have had a few problems.
1. It won't read the rear tires on my toad even with a repeater in the rear compartment of the MH.
2. The senders corroded the tire values of my jeep which had to be replaced (part of the Jeeps tire minding system, $150 a piece.)
I wouldn't by this brand again.
1. It won't read the rear tires on my toad even with a repeater in the rear compartment of the MH.
2. The senders corroded the tire values of my jeep which had to be replaced (part of the Jeeps tire minding system, $150 a piece.)
I wouldn't by this brand again.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Benjie Zeller on May 09, 2012, 09:45:11 pm
Post by: Benjie Zeller on May 09, 2012, 09:45:11 pm
I had TST on my original coach and loved it for the short time I had it. Going with Dave Stevens' slightly used TST system this time around and expect to get 10 refurbished sensors from TST any day now. Hoping all will work well!
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Joe Shirley on May 11, 2012, 06:21:51 pm
Post by: Joe Shirley on May 11, 2012, 06:21:51 pm
Thanks so much for your responses!! Has anyone heard good, bad or had experience with Tire Tracker TT400 units?
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Dave and Nancy Abel on May 11, 2012, 06:31:17 pm
Post by: Dave and Nancy Abel on May 11, 2012, 06:31:17 pm
Howdy Joe,
Here's the link to a discussion on the TireTraker:
TireTraker (http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=14772.msg87248#msg87248)
Good Luck, Dave Abel
Here's the link to a discussion on the TireTraker:
TireTraker (http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=14772.msg87248#msg87248)
Good Luck, Dave Abel
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: wolfe10 on May 11, 2012, 06:50:12 pm
Post by: wolfe10 on May 11, 2012, 06:50:12 pm
Dave,
Give PressurePro a call. If I remember a post on the FMCA Forum correctly, they have a seal kit that will replace the seal in several senders with installation tool for around $10.
Give PressurePro a call. If I remember a post on the FMCA Forum correctly, they have a seal kit that will replace the seal in several senders with installation tool for around $10.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Michelle on May 11, 2012, 07:26:58 pm
Post by: Michelle on May 11, 2012, 07:26:58 pm
Dave,
Give PressurePro a call. If I remember a post on the FMCA Forum correctly, they have a seal kit that will replace the seal in several senders with installation tool for around $10.
From the Advantage Pressure Pro site:
SENSOR SEAL/INSTALLATION TOOL KIT – (Part #AAP21)
• Included - ten (10) Sensor seals and one (1) seal installation tool
• Allows secure installation of seal replacements into Sensor
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Joe Shirley on May 12, 2012, 10:32:04 am
Post by: Joe Shirley on May 12, 2012, 10:32:04 am
Dave; thanks again for the information and link. I'm grateful! I can find no "negatives" on the web about the TireTracker TT400.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: steve on May 12, 2012, 05:09:40 pm
Post by: steve on May 12, 2012, 05:09:40 pm
FWIW ... TireTracker TT400 = TireMinder = HawksHead + a few others as well. Exact same unit manufactured and sold under several different names. I don't know anything about them, just some info for you if you are price shopping for this unit.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Joe Shirley on May 15, 2012, 03:15:05 pm
Post by: Joe Shirley on May 15, 2012, 03:15:05 pm
Thanks, Steve and all others who contributed answers and suggestions.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Dean & Dee on May 15, 2012, 07:35:50 pm
Post by: Dean & Dee on May 15, 2012, 07:35:50 pm
We have had the Hawkshead system for about 2 years now. The positives are being able to change out the sensor batterys (which a few more systems do now) pressure and temp readings, and easy to program. Also good customer service and tech support.
The only negitive is that we have experienced an occasional false alarm but I don't think that is uncommon with any TPMS.
TPMS is a must have if towing.
The only negitive is that we have experienced an occasional false alarm but I don't think that is uncommon with any TPMS.
TPMS is a must have if towing.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: John S on May 15, 2012, 08:41:46 pm
Post by: John S on May 15, 2012, 08:41:46 pm
Interesting, discussion here. I have no pressure pro type on my coach. I would think that one that goes inside would be the only one I would look at getting. I do not like the idea of the stem having that weight on the outside spinning around as I drive. A common theme seems to be that they all seem to fail and cause a flat tire. Not on everyone but on enough that I decided to test my pressure look at them on the road and go without. IT has worked for over 300,000 miles that way so far. I have about 1 million miles on my pickups up and no issues so far. I have had flats yes but usually it is a slow leak and it is caught over night or when I check the tires using the trip. I know people feel better with the system on it but as of right now I have not had any issues driving without them over many miles.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Peter & Beth on May 15, 2012, 09:12:50 pm
Post by: Peter & Beth on May 15, 2012, 09:12:50 pm
I don't like the fact that the TPMS can cause problems at any time; that it would give me a false sense of security, among some of my reasons for not having one. It is another system that complicates matters. I realize that many will never do without one.
About the only thing this type system is good for (in my opinion) is detecting a leak while driving. You all are supposed to verify the tire pressures manually anyway...that false sense of security is, to me, more of a risk than not having a TPMS.
I suppose a poll would be good. How often do TPMS users manually measure their tire pressures?
Peter
About the only thing this type system is good for (in my opinion) is detecting a leak while driving. You all are supposed to verify the tire pressures manually anyway...that false sense of security is, to me, more of a risk than not having a TPMS.
I suppose a poll would be good. How often do TPMS users manually measure their tire pressures?
Peter
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Dean & Dee on May 15, 2012, 09:38:38 pm
Post by: Dean & Dee on May 15, 2012, 09:38:38 pm
About the only thing this type system is good for (in my opinion) is detecting a leak while driving. You all are supposed to verify the tire pressures manually anyway...that false sense of security is, to me, more of a risk than not having a TPMS.
I suppose a poll would be good. How often do TPMS users manually measure their tire pressures?
Peter
I have had road debris kick up and shear the toad lighting wires and didn't know it until stopping end of day. A flat on the car could easily go unnoticed until there was alot of damage.
Yes, it's another gadget to monitor and maintain but I believe it's a viable tool for me.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Dave Katsuki on May 15, 2012, 09:43:01 pm
Post by: Dave Katsuki on May 15, 2012, 09:43:01 pm
We've had Pressure Pro sensors on all 10 tires (rig and toad) for 4 years with no problems. Wouldn't drive without them. Especially want the monitoring of toad tires, since I can't see them with the rear view camera, and no way of telling if they are low or flat.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Dave M (RIP) on May 15, 2012, 11:14:52 pm
Post by: Dave M (RIP) on May 15, 2012, 11:14:52 pm
I ordered the 10 seals with the tool from Pressure Pro, of course it is back ordered, I am willing to give this one more go round, if it does not 100% solve the leaking issues, they all (10) are headed for a new home. How much should a customer have to put up with on a poor engineered device ?
The best advice I ever got was from Carol Savournin on how to prep the device before installing, too bad the company does not have that many smarts for a suggestion.
Dave M
The best advice I ever got was from Carol Savournin on how to prep the device before installing, too bad the company does not have that many smarts for a suggestion.
Dave M
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Michelle on May 15, 2012, 11:18:32 pm
Post by: Michelle on May 15, 2012, 11:18:32 pm
The best advice I ever got was from Carol S. on how to prep the device before installing
OK, Carol, before Steve installs our Pressure Pro - what are the tricks and tips?
Michelle
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Don Hay on May 16, 2012, 12:03:53 am
Post by: Don Hay on May 16, 2012, 12:03:53 am
In the 6+ years we have been using Advantage Pressure Pros, we have had 6 potential flats averted, all on our toad. All were legitimate leaks - nails, screws. None were clustered together; all were spread out over several years. In my experience, when comparing the sensor's pressure with mechanical gauges, the sensors have always been more consistent. I do have one mechanical gauge that measures within 1-2 lb of the sensors.
When I switched over to the new set (old batteries lasted 5 yrs, 8 mos.), I did have 2 sensors that leaked. When I took them off, I realized that I hadn't been careful to seat the rubber seals firmly inside the sensor. After doing that, and using Teflon tape around the threads of the valve stem, haven't had a leak since. I know, "be careful when using the tape; don't let it get in the Schrader valve!" I've been using Teflon tape on my sensors for more than 5 years and never had an issue, so it works for me.
John, you have been leading a "charmed life" regarding never having had a tire issue, even on your toad. 300,000 miles and not a single flat!
When I switched over to the new set (old batteries lasted 5 yrs, 8 mos.), I did have 2 sensors that leaked. When I took them off, I realized that I hadn't been careful to seat the rubber seals firmly inside the sensor. After doing that, and using Teflon tape around the threads of the valve stem, haven't had a leak since. I know, "be careful when using the tape; don't let it get in the Schrader valve!" I've been using Teflon tape on my sensors for more than 5 years and never had an issue, so it works for me.
John, you have been leading a "charmed life" regarding never having had a tire issue, even on your toad. 300,000 miles and not a single flat!
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Michelle on May 16, 2012, 01:17:59 pm
Post by: Michelle on May 16, 2012, 01:17:59 pm
In the 6+ years we have been using Advantage Pressure Pros, we have had 6 potential flats averted, all on our toad.
Our toad is the primary reason we decided to get a TPMS this year.
Quote
When I switched over to the new set (old batteries lasted 5 yrs, 8 mos.), I did have 2 sensors that leaked. When I took them off, I realized that I hadn't been careful to seat the rubber seals firmly inside the sensor.
Don - any advice on what to look for in the sensors? I checked all 12 of ours and they generally look the same (I assume the seal is the black piece with the square raised area that presses on the dill valve of the valve stem):
We have not yet installed our system since I need to get metal valve stems put on the CR-V.
Michelle
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Dan Stansel on May 16, 2012, 01:51:13 pm
Post by: Dan Stansel on May 16, 2012, 01:51:13 pm
I put the sensors on my HHR with the stems that came with the car. I used the grease on each one so they will not freeze on. Have had no issues with the valve stem. I think the car sensor is in these stems. Not sure but when I got new tires they kept the old stems sayng they were needed and lifetime stems. They have worked fine and I have always received the signal when the car is close by. Dan
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Dave M (RIP) on May 16, 2012, 02:29:38 pm
Post by: Dave M (RIP) on May 16, 2012, 02:29:38 pm
I never said ALL ten had issues of leaking, just 3 of them, but that is 3 way too many.
Today I installed 4 new Michelin P255/70-16R on the F150, Will not reinstall the PP sensors until I get the back ordered seals and tool from PP. Looking forward to having sensors that all 10 do not leak and give reliable data.
Dave M
Today I installed 4 new Michelin P255/70-16R on the F150, Will not reinstall the PP sensors until I get the back ordered seals and tool from PP. Looking forward to having sensors that all 10 do not leak and give reliable data.
Dave M
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Don Hay on May 16, 2012, 06:33:32 pm
Post by: Don Hay on May 16, 2012, 06:33:32 pm
Steve & Michelle,
Yes, the "the black piece with the square raised area" is the seal to which I was referring. I don't have the official tool, so I use a small, thin bladed screw driver or small pen knife and gently make sure that the black rubber is firmly and evenly pressed down over the center of the sensor. The circumference of the seal should be snug up against the inner surface of the sensor. Once that is done, I am careful when wrapping the threads of the valve stem with a layer of Teflon tape. When tightening, it helps to hold on to the valve stem with one hand while exerting the final twist of the sensor to the valve stem. Our Honda Accord has had rubber valve stems the entire 6+ years and never had an issue. Go figure.
Yes, the "the black piece with the square raised area" is the seal to which I was referring. I don't have the official tool, so I use a small, thin bladed screw driver or small pen knife and gently make sure that the black rubber is firmly and evenly pressed down over the center of the sensor. The circumference of the seal should be snug up against the inner surface of the sensor. Once that is done, I am careful when wrapping the threads of the valve stem with a layer of Teflon tape. When tightening, it helps to hold on to the valve stem with one hand while exerting the final twist of the sensor to the valve stem. Our Honda Accord has had rubber valve stems the entire 6+ years and never had an issue. Go figure.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Dave Katsuki on May 17, 2012, 12:25:00 am
Post by: Dave Katsuki on May 17, 2012, 12:25:00 am
You can install the new seals with a replacement auto tire valve stem from any auto store. Just take the Dill valve out from the stem to prepare it. Gently press the new seal into place and screw your lightly greased stem-tool into the sensor to seat the seal. Works quite well, and at an RV show (Quartzsite, I think) where I got the replacement seals, the guy in the booth was using the same technique. You can pull the old seals out with small needle-nose pliers or simply carefully pry them out with a thin-bladed knife.
Title: Re: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Post by: Benjie Zeller on May 17, 2012, 02:51:39 pm
Post by: Benjie Zeller on May 17, 2012, 02:51:39 pm
About the only thing this type system is good for (in my opinion) is detecting a leak while driving. You all are supposed to verify the tire pressures manually anyway...that false sense of security is, to me, more of a risk than not having a TPMS.
I suppose a poll would be good. How often do TPMS users manually measure their tire pressures?
Maybe I'm in the minority here, but I think it would be an extremely rare occurrence (as in maybe never) for the TPMS to read higher pressure than what is in the tire. I understand the scenario where it might not be seated correctly and read nothing or significantly lower than what's in the tire and that is where I would check tire pressure manually, but can't really imagine a scenario where I would check manually if my TPMS system is reading safe levels. I'd be curious if someone's run into an issue where their TPMS was reading safe PSI levels and their tire was flat or dangerously low?