The travel trailer wheels must carry much higher loads per wheel than passenger car or truck wheels. Each wheel may carry 1,000 pounds and higher. Furthermore, wheels on tandem axle travel trailers do not steer, and are subjected to very high side load stress whenever the travel trailer makes a tight turn.
When going around corners, especially on slow, tight turns, the wheels are subject to very strong side loads. This tends to flex the wheel and gradually loosen the wheel nuts. Although the materials and manufacturing methods are maximized for this kind of service, these extra loads can cause stress, which can result in flexing and loosening of wheel nuts.
Before each trip and any time a wheel is replaced, be sure to tighten the wheel nuts, following one of the lug-pattern sequences shown below. If the wheel was replaced, check the torque every 10, 25, and 50 miles.
Refer to the following table for wheel specifications.
NOTE - Use a torque wrench to tighten lug nuts. Tightening by hand or with an impact wrench is not recommended.
NOTE - Torque Aluminum Wheels to 110 ft. lbs and Steel Wheels to 100 ft. lbs.
Airstream Travel Trailer Torque and Tire Pressure