One of the most important topics for RV safety relates directly to our tires. Without good tires, we’re likely to experience failures on the road that not only keep us waiting for roadside assistance but also possibly causing expensive collateral damage in the process. Hopkins created the nVision Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) a few years back and has improved the product so it’s even better at informing the driver of low tire pressure, which can lead to hazardous driving conditions.
Installation is so simple that anyone can do the job. The manufacturer’s instruction manual is straightforward and easy to understand.
Before starting the installation, be certain that all of your tires, including the spare, are inflated to the required pressure. It’s best to check inflation and install the nVision TPMS in the morning. The most accurate pressure information is established when tires are cold.
To begin activating the TPMS, the pivoting antenna is installed on the receiver that will eventually be mounted in the cab of the tow vehicle. For this project, we plugged the Quick-Set installation cord with the 9-volt battery attached into the base unit. This unique feature allows portability of the unit so the user can quickly and effectively install each individual tire pressure sensor. The unit is later plugged into the 12-volt DC accessory port in the dash.
The Hopkins nVision Runs on a single 9-volt battery.
Programming the system is simple. The first step is to turn on the base unit with all the sensors in your hand. The screen will show “Define Mode” which allows you to select wheel configuration. Press the arrow keys to scroll through the tire options to find and select the proper application for your tow vehicle and/or trailer and press OK. The front left tire readout will begin flashing; install the first sensor on that tire.
Wait for the correct pressure to appear and press OK. The monitor will advance to the next sensor location. Repeat the same steps for all of the tires. Once you have installed each of the sensors, scroll to save the information and again press OK.
The system can be used to monitor as many as 24 tires simultaneously and programmed for up to four different vehicle combinations for true portability. The monitor reads real-time tire pressure and has warning lights that activate when pressure is 12.5 and 25 percent below normal.
The kit comes with four easy-to-install sensors.
The nVision TPMS comes with the monitor, pivoting antenna, nonskid pad, 12-volt-DC power cord, Quick-Set cord and four tire sensors. Retail price is $300, but check the Internet for better deals.
It’s best to order an additional wheel sensor for use on the spare tire. Too often the spare is out of sight and out of mind, and ends up inflated improperly when needed. Two additional sensors retail for $100.
With tire pressure awareness and security comes peace of mind, which in turn allows us to drive safely. Hopkins nVision TPMS uses the most sophisticated and advanced TPMS technology on the market and is designed to provide years of dependable performance.
Hopkins nVision, (800) 835-0129, www.nvisionsafety.com.
