[A/S] Tire monitors

[chris21838@xxxxxxx]

Just got this answer from SmarTire.  Thought it might be of interest to some 
folks on the list.  Also, talked to the Blue Ox people and their system does 
not seem to meet the needs of most applications.  This unit must be hardwired 
to the wheel wells and then extend to the cab of the tow vehicle.  They need 
to spend some time developing something that would offer state of the art 
technically!  Hardwire is very old technology in this day and age!

"Dear Chris Cavanaugh:

SmarTire is exactly that.  An early warning device that alerts the driver to
irregularities in tire pressure and temperature.  

As requested please find some information on our SmarTireTM Wireless
Pressure Monitor System for passenger cars, RV and trailers.  SmarTire is
ideal for anyone that values the security, peace of mind and efficiency
provided by continuous tire pressure and temperature monitoring.  Best of
all, SmarTire is approved for use with virtually all tubeless tire and wheel
assemblies.  Presently SmarTire can monitor up to a total of six tire
locations.  Suggested retail for pricing for our Tire Monitoring Systems not
including installation is as follows (US Currency):

052.1004 - Passenger Car System             $299.00
052.1012 - 2 Position Light Truck/RV System     $199.00
052.1014 - 4 Position Light Truck/RV System     $399.00
052.1016 - 6 Position Light Truck/RV System     $499.00

You can purchase SmarTire at many retail outlets such as Discount Tire,
America's Tire, SEARS, NTB, Goodyear Tire Stores, Bridgestone/Firestone
Stores and many other independent Tire Dealers.  (Participation varies from
store to store).  

Discount Tire/America's Tire Part numbers
37501 - Passenger Car System
37502 - 2 Position Light Truck/RV System
37503 - 4 Position Light Truck/RV System
37504 - 6 Position Light Truck/RV System

SEARS & National Tire & Battery (NTB) Classification numbers
95114 - Passenger Car Systems
95214 - Light Truck/RV Systems

In the Northwest you can try Bob Dickman Tire Centers at 800 257-8430.

The following is a guideline for application of the SmarTire system on
various Recreational Vehicles:

Motorhomes:     30' in length or less
Note: SmarTire does not recommend application on Motorhomes in excess of 30'
in length with tires of all steel construction (steel body plies, i.e.
11R22.5, 11R24.5).

Travel Trailers:    40' in length or less
5th Wheel:      40' in length or less
Boat Trailers:      40' in length or less
Utility Trailers:   40' in length or less
Horse Trailers: 40' in length or less
Towed Car:      Behind Motorhome not exceeding 25'

The above is merely a guide. SmarTire has been used successfully on vehicles
beyond the range specified in these guidelines. Due to the nature of radio
transmission however, SmarTire cannot guarantee reception on vehicles in
excess of these guidelines. 

We have established these guidelines to ensure customer satisfaction with
our current product before we release the all-new 20-position RV system.
SmarTire is making every effort to bring the new RV system to market as soon
as possible with the features and quality the RV community is expecting. We
at SmarTire thank you for your dedication and loyal support, we will keep
you informed of new product developments as they occur.


If you have any questions or require additional information I can be reached
at 888-982-3001."

Unfortunately, this answer does not seem to be as good as the one offered by 
Camping World about a year ago since the tires must be removed to place the 
sensors.  However, it sure is a better solution than hardwired units.  Will 
keep searching as I know I will be putting something on my tires for 
protection.

Chris Cavanaugh
23ft Safari
WBCCI #4002