Once again, I was reminded yesterday of the importance of doing a Pre-Trip Inspection. To review, the Pre-Trip always begins in the engine compartment, checking fluids, belts, hoses and underneath the engine for signs of leaks. Next is the light check, clearance lights, turn signals, hazards, brake lights, backup lights and horn. All was good.

Last but never least, the Safety Check [Free Download]. Starting at the entrance door, making sure the steps retracted, I worked my way around the coach, counter-clockwise, so I was facing possible on-coming traffic. I checked the windshield wipers, made sure the mirrors were secure, the compartment doors were secure and tires had proper inflation.

Guess what I found when I checked the outside dually on the drivers side? The tire had only 22 lbs of pressure! Further examination revealed there were two nails in the tire and there was no way I would have made the 231 mile trip without having the tire go totally flat or even worse, come apart. Never assume everything is OK, always do your checks to make sure that everything REALLY is OK!

What you find may delay you for a few minutes but it’s better to fix a possible problem BEFORE you begin your journey rather than trying to do it on the side of the freeway.