Tire Pressure Monitoring System

It has always been my assumption that the tire manufacturer specified a "Cold Pressure" with the knowledge that the temperature would increase with load, altitude, and ambient temperature. This increase is anticipated and the manufacturer has determined that the pressure will not increase to the point that the tire will fail (assuming that loading specifications are not exceeded). Consequently, I only check my tires when they are cold and NEVER after use. The current tire pressure monitoring devices prevalent today only tell you what the manufacturer already knows and any manipulation of the pressure during use is looking for trouble. RIGHT?
Correct, but you don't go far enough.
 
It has always been my assumption that the tire manufacturer specified a "Cold Pressure" with the knowledge that the temperature would increase with load, altitude, and ambient temperature.

This what I received from Cooper which I have followed:

"The inflation pressure should be set at the placard specified pressure. If there are large changes in ambient temperature, the inflation pressure should be reset to the target inflation pressure at the current morning ambient temperature.
This came from our Radial Medium Truck department for you."

I don't sweat small changes in ambient cold morning temps but last season we saw morning ambient temps that varied by as much as 30-40 degrees between locales and I inflated/deflated to reach the PSI on the sticker and tire. Example - early AM in South Dakota and Wyoming was in the 70-80 range. We had come from upstate NY which was in the 40-50 range morning ambient. I let air out in South Dakota as the morning PSI was above max pressure and with 106F driving on 90, the tire PSIs were very close to the 25% max that Cooper recommends (i.e. within 1-2 PSI). After Wyoming, cold and rainy in Scotts Bluff and temps were back in the 40-50 range so I aired up as the TPMS was alarming and tires were about 7PSI below where they should be.
 
We have the TireLinc system. It works great with one MAJOR flaw that defeats the whole purpose of a TPMS system.

Setup? Easy. Just open the app on your phone and screw in the sensors one at a time. When they're recognized, designate which tire they are.
Monitoring? Much better signal with the repeater than I had with my EEz system and my smaller 23-footer.
App? I like the features - I can set up the high/low thresholds for pressure and temperature for all 4 tires or for each one individually. Great.

The massive failure: It's iOS integration. Despite turning on all my notification settings on my iPhone, TireLinc does not give me alerts when the temp or pressure goes outside the range I've selected - kind of the key component of a TPMS system. When I asked a TireLinc rep what I was doing wrong, he just suggested I buy the monintoring device I plug into my dashboard. I told him I didn't want yet ANOTHER gadget cluttering up my dash, that's why I chose his product and its iOS integration.
 
We have the TireLinc system. It works great with one MAJOR flaw that defeats the whole purpose of a TPMS system.

Setup? Easy. Just open the app on your phone and screw in the sensors one at a time. When they're recognized, designate which tire they are.
Monitoring? Much better signal with the repeater than I had with my EEz system and my smaller 23-footer.
App? I like the features - I can set up the high/low thresholds for pressure and temperature for all 4 tires or for each one individually. Great.

The massive failure: It's iOS integration. Despite turning on all my notification settings on my iPhone, TireLinc does not give me alerts when the temp or pressure goes outside the range I've selected - kind of the key component of a TPMS system. When I asked a TireLinc rep what I was doing wrong, he just suggested I buy the monintoring device I plug into my dashboard. I told him I didn't want yet ANOTHER gadget cluttering up my dash, that's why I chose his product and its iOS integration.

I ditched my TireLinc today and put a TST-507 on in it's place. Took me an hour to pair all the sensors on TireLinc last year - made me start over 3 times because it failed to recognize the last sensor. 2 leaking sensors and a month old sensor that now won't link up to the repeater. Lippert replaced the repeater because they had a newer software rev that didn't require moving to see PSI. That didn't work either. Bottom line, I didn't trust what it was telling me.

Talk about easy setup on the TST - pairs before you put the sensors on. I ordered a 6 pack and now have a sensor on my RV spare and Goosebox. Sensors read before I get done hitching.
 
It’s pretty obvious to me that the designers of Lippert’s TPMS never towed a trailer. The lack of an alarm on the app would have been an obvious shortfall had they had that experience.
 
I ditched my TireLinc today and put a TST-507 on in it's place. Took me an hour to pair all the sensors on TireLinc last year - made me start over 3 times because it failed to recognize the last sensor. 2 leaking sensors and a month old sensor that now won't link up to the repeater. Lippert replaced the repeater because they had a newer software rev that didn't require moving to see PSI. That didn't work either. Bottom line, I didn't trust what it was telling me.

Talk about easy setup on the TST - pairs before you put the sensors on. I ordered a 6 pack and now have a sensor on my RV spare and Goosebox. Sensors read before I get done hitching.

I was hoping you would report how the new TST worked.
TireLinc is getting the boot.
 
I just ordered the Tire Minder i10 system. It has great reviews, easy to setup and bright display. Reviews for it on e-trailer and Amazon and here have been 5 stars mostly. I have read tons of reviews on the Tire Linc and will not waste my time or money on it. I'll let you know how the Tire Minder i10 works.

Two systems that come "prepped" on our 2022 2600RB Imagine, Tire Linc and the Furrion back up camera. And I will use neither. I think GD needs to re-think their "prepping" bonus items.
 
I was hoping you would report how the new TST worked.
TireLinc is getting the boot.

We head out on a two month trip in 10 days so it should get a good workout. So far, the sensors sync without any movement of the RV. It picked up a leak in my Goosebox after I replaced the manifold - tightened some fittings and so far OK. It was very convenient to pair the sensors to the display and pick which tire they go to, then install them and see the TST pick up pressure and temp. TST does not suggest keeping the display plugged into power continuously with a fully charged battery. I used to have my cell phone over the center dash and it was the only piece of equipment that was higher than the hood of the truck. TST display is much lower and easier to read with no view blocking. The alarm is built into the display so I don't need that separate alarm that Tire Linc used which always went off during travel when it lost sync. I would say the only thing I liked about Tire Linc is I had visibility of all tire PSI and temps at the same time - the TST cycles through them and always shows the TV and and 6 dually trailer axles but only values for the programmed sensors - maybe I just haven't figured out if there is a way to unclutter the display yet.

EDIT: Went out an powered it up and now it only shows the tires with the sensors on it - much better. I also really like the dedicated spare tire options. This allows me to put a sensor on the RV spare and one on either the Goosebox (which is what I'm initially doing) or the truck spare which doesn't have a factory sensor. I can set the spares to different hi/lo PSI thresholds which is nice for the Goosebox.
 
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Eagerly waiting for usage updates by the group on the TST and Tireminder i10 discussed here.
Considering replacing my Tymate with a in tire sensor system. Tired of having to remove the sensors from the valve stems to check the pressure before a trip. I'm considering the Schrader version so I can use my tpms reading/programming tool in the event I need to perform some maintenance.
 
Eagerly waiting for usage updates by the group on the TST and Tireminder i10 discussed here.
Considering replacing my Tymate with a in tire sensor system. Tired of having to remove the sensors from the valve stems to check the pressure before a trip. I'm considering the Schrader version so I can use my tpms reading/programming tool in the event I need to perform some maintenance.
Okay, you have to remove a valve stem cap to check the tire pressure, how is removing a valve stem cap sensor different? And how does that compare to having to remove the wheel, take it to a tire shop, break down the tire, replace the sensor, pay for the privilege, take the tire back, put the tire back on the trailer, and then remove the valve stem cap to make sure the pressure is correct. Nah, I think I'll stick to the valve stem sensor cap with easily replaced, owner serviceable batteries. :) JMO of course.
 
If yours is like mine, you will likely develop issues over time. Ours will randomly lose a tire sensor during travel, it won’t necessarily be the same one every time, and new batteries won’t always help. It’s to the point that when it alarms, it’s a family bet as to which one we lost. I’ve had so many false alarms that it’s become worthless. Before our next long trip, it’s on the chopping block. Hope you get better performance.

Same with our Tire Linc. Never a trip without Tire Linc problems. I replaced it with a Tireminder I10 system and have not had any problems with it. Recommend you give the I10 a look. And they offer free batteries every year.
 
Okay, you have to remove a valve stem cap to check the tire pressure, how is removing a valve stem cap sensor different? And how does that compare to having to remove the wheel, take it to a tire shop, break down the tire, replace the sensor, pay for the privilege, take the tire back, put the tire back on the trailer, and then remove the valve stem cap to make sure the pressure is correct. Nah, I think I'll stick to the valve stem sensor cap with easily replaced, owner serviceable batteries. :) JMO of course.

Thanks for the response. I have access to tire changing and balancing equipment so for me its not the same struggle. I'll agree this puts me into a bit of a different situation.

Removing the current valve stem thread on sensors to check the air pressure is a bit more work than just the caps. I am using the jam nuts that came with the sensors and while not impossible, it's a chore that I don't have to do with the tow vehicle (having internal sensors) when I check it each time. Also, removing and putting external sensors back on does change the pressure more than just a quick check using a pressure gage. How much more, probably 3x ish. How much is that, maybe 1/2 psi or so. Just guessing by removing and replacing them 4 or 5 times in a row and monitoring pressure with a gage each time I can take a reading.

I am however concerned with valve stem life. I have recently had a low tire found before a trip and discovered it to be caused by the seat of the valve stem to the rim. I checked all the rims with soapy water and found a second with a very slow leak in the same place. Was the centrifugal weight of the sensor flexing the stem more than it's intended rating causing this? I don't know but I wonder if the valve stems were designed to have this extra weight put on them. I doubt it. Am I considering updating my stems if I stay with the externals? Yes, but I will need access to the inside of the tire then as well.

Also, the update times for psi readings on the Tymate can be slow, even with the installed repeater. I have observed the update times of my stock Schrader 29015 units on my tow vehicle to be noticably better. Anyone reading about trailer tire blowouts has surely come across complaints where users felt that that installed tpms sensors didn't warn them in time. Maybe just posturing on their part, maybe not.

Do I think the screw on sensors are a major issue? No. They seem to be used quite often with high success. Including mine so far! And before all the digging on my end, for me externals were better than nothing.

Again, for me having access to the needed equipment changes how I can approach the situation vs another.

YMMV, I'm no expert, use at your own risk, don't run with scissors, don't pet strange dogs, etc. and other standard disclaimers. :D
 
I went with the TireMinder i10 system, installed it August 29th and used it on our trip this past week. It was easy to install and setup and worked excellent. The display is bright enough to read clearly and small enough to stick on the way low left side of the windshield near the inspection sticker so it is out of the field of view while driving. Since I pull an Imagine with an equalizer hitch, I installed the tire pressure sensors on the four wheels of it and programmed them on the "REAR" screen. Surprisingly, only the Rear screen shows up on the monitor automatically which is great so I don't have to scroll around screens. The Booster was easy to install using strap ties near the battery and I wired in a switch to the battery and easily ran the wires into the battery box. I turn it off when parked at the campground. The display unit is chargeable with a small USB cable. Fully charged it dropped One bar of four on the Battery for 3 hours of use. Long trips may require hooking up the charger but then you would have to deal with cables across the dash etc. The suction mount and adjustable arm for the Monitor display work great. It is very lightweight. I am so far very happy with the TireMinder i10.
 
Thanks for the response. I have access to tire changing and balancing equipment so for me its not the same struggle. I'll agree this puts me into a bit of a different situation.

Removing the current valve stem thread on sensors to check the air pressure is a bit more work than just the caps. I am using the jam nuts that came with the sensors and while not impossible, it's a chore that I don't have to do with the tow vehicle (having internal sensors) when I check it each time. Also, removing and putting external sensors back on does change the pressure more than just a quick check using a pressure gage. How much more, probably 3x ish. How much is that, maybe 1/2 psi or so. Just guessing by removing and replacing them 4 or 5 times in a row and monitoring pressure with a gage each time I can take a reading.

I am however concerned with valve stem life. I have recently had a low tire found before a trip and discovered it to be caused by the seat of the valve stem to the rim. I checked all the rims with soapy water and found a second with a very slow leak in the same place. Was the centrifugal weight of the sensor flexing the stem more than it's intended rating causing this? I don't know but I wonder if the valve stems were designed to have this extra weight put on them. I doubt it. Am I considering updating my stems if I stay with the externals? Yes, but I will need access to the inside of the tire then as well.

Also, the update times for psi readings on the Tymate can be slow, even with the installed repeater. I have observed the update times of my stock Schrader 29015 units on my tow vehicle to be noticably better. Anyone reading about trailer tire blowouts has surely come across complaints where users felt that that installed tpms sensors didn't warn them in time. Maybe just posturing on their part, maybe not.

Do I think the screw on sensors are a major issue? No. They seem to be used quite often with high success. Including mine so far! And before all the digging on my end, for me externals were better than nothing.

Again, for me having access to the needed equipment changes how I can approach the situation vs another.

YMMV, I'm no expert, use at your own risk, don't run with scissors, don't pet strange dogs, etc. and other standard disclaimers. :D
Having rubber valve stems does change the issue quite a bit. I'm not a fan of rubber valve stems and TPMS sensors. But personally, I'd rather have the rubber valve stems replaced with metal, and continue using the sensors, rather than deal with the issues of an in-the-tire sensor. As far a checking the tire pressure frequently, that's why I have the TPMS. I turn it on when starting to hook up, and by the time I'm ready to hit the road, the tire pressure readings have come up, and I can clearly see if I'm ready to go. Having the equipment to do tire changes does ameliorate the issues with interior sensors, but still requires removing the tire, breaking it down, and then the reverse. Just more stuff that I choose to avoid. Everybody has their preferences. :)
 
Been using Tire Minder systems for many years; replaced my very old system with newer version i10 after 8 years. Rechargeable battery on old system started getting weak after 8 years. Saved my bacon once when I had blow out with china bomb tires that came on camper. Pulled over immediately and only had minor damage, fender skirt destroyed and slightly bend rim.
Changed all 5 tire (spare also) as soon as I got to campground with Goodyear Endurrance tires - one of best investments you can make.
 
Added the internal tire pressure sensors to my Reflection and love them. They report pressure and temps directly to the truck. No mess no fuss.
 
Added the internal tire pressure sensors to my Reflection and love them. They report pressure and temps directly to the truck. No mess no fuss.

What brand/source did you get these sensors from? Have you had any issues with the sensors losing connectivity to the tow vehicle?

I know the threads about three months old but I have read mixed reviews on connectivity issues with the GM system, just was wanting you input/perspective.

Appreciate any feedback.
 
Tire Minder just released a Apple CarPlay app that appears on the screen of your tow vehicle. You need to purchase the Bluetooth adapter to go from the repeater to your phone. I have the i10 unit for a couple years now and just went to the CarPlay. Works well in storage, but haven’t made a trip yet. The adapter is $80.00. You can use your existing screen along with the CarPlay app if you wanted.
 

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