Hitched and Ready to go!

­It’s been awhile since we traveled with the trailer but we packed it up today, got it hitched for an AM departure tomorrow (Thursday).

If you followed us last winter, you’ll recall the issues we experienced with the trailer tires.  A month or so ago, we towed the trailer to a local tire shop to get all that straightened out; Mag took the helm for the 15 minute drive.  We were instructed to back the trailer onto the loading dock pad and Mag was looking to hone her backing up skills.

We arrived on time but Mag didn’t get it onto the pad for another 20 minutes, or so.  Backing into the lot meant crossing Route 10/202, which added to the challenge.  At one point, a young employee came running out and asked, “Do you want me to get it?”  I had to inform him the Mag was intent on improving her backing up skills but thanks for offering.  Once we got it in position they got right to work.  Within a few minutes the first wheel is off and rolled into the shop so they can replace the existing valve stem with one that will have the sensor attached; it rests inside the tire.  It will monitor the tire pressure of the trailer tire and provide early warning of any pressure differential.  Tire blowouts can be hazardous, as you can imagine, but can also do tremendous damage to the trailer.

These TPMS (tire pressure management system) sensors will integrate with the truck and will display an alert right on the dash.  The mechanic came back out a few minutes later to inform us that the valve stems were too small and would not work. Oh boy!  They reinstalled the wheel and we headed back home to research our newest challenge.  After only a few search attempts, we learned it’s not an uncommon issue.  I found a company that manufactures a valve stem with a diameter of 5/8″ and a flange to mount the sensor.  This means I don’t have to toss out the sensors or sell them on eBay, I only have to remove the sensor and mount it on the new stem.  I ordered them and it was about a week before they arrived.  It looks like they will work perfectly and we scheduled our second trip to the tire shop.

With Mag the helm again, she backs it right onto the loading dock pad, first shot; it was perfect.  Again, they get to work right away and within maybe an hour, they’re done and we’re heading home.  We are so pleased to have this chore behind us ­ and also very pleased with Route 10 Tire in Granby, CT.  They we’re great!

Tomorrow we’re heading up to Lake Champlain.  We’re staying at Apple Island Resort and really looking forward to being back on the road again!  Stay tuned, we’ll be posting notes during our 5 night stay including some pics of other family members!!