What Type of Forklift Tires do I need?

What type of forklift tires do I need for the surface I’m working on?

What is the difference between cushion and pneumatic forklift tires?
There are several different types of forklift tires, each has its own benefit and is suited for a specific surface.

Cushion Tires

which are also known as a Press-on Tire are best suited for hard smooth surfaces. Usually, indoor warehouses are where you’ll find this type of tire. Sometimes light outdoor use on smooth surfaces is acceptable. The construction of this tire is a hard rubber that is molded onto a steel band, it is pressed onto a special wheel by a large hydraulic press. When the tire wears down to a specific thickness, it has to be replaced. The replacement tire is then pressed onto the wheel as the old tire is being pressed off. Cushion tires are available in smooth which have the longest usable lifespan and are best used indoors on dry smooth surface. If needing additional traction on uneven surface or if outdoors, installing a traction or treaded tire on the front is beneficial. Pneumatic tires can’t be installed on a cushion style forklift because the forklift has a shorter and lower profile design that is specifically design around the use of cushion tires.
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Pneumatic Tires

which are best used in indoor and outdoor warehouses, are similar to a truck tire. Made of rubber and filled with compressed air, these tires are very versatile and off the best tractions on uneven surfaces like blacktop and gravel. The disadvantage is they are prone to punctures and flats due to screws, nails and sharp debris often found in construction yards. To solve this issue, owners can install a solid tire in place of an air tire. This gives the benefit of traction and no flats. Solid tires typically have a higher upfront cost, but will last longer and have less down time. The last type of tire available is an air tire that is foam filled. This also has the benefit of no flats and good traction. These tires don’t normally last as long as solid because they have increased pressure on the sidewalls and the foam will break down over time. Both Cushion and Pneumatic Tires are available in a non-marking white tire that is preferred when working on surfaces where no tire marks are allowed.
When the time comes to replace the tires and you ask yourself “what type of forklift tire do I need?” Choose carefully!
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As an Authorized TVH dealer, Contact Landmark Equipment for replacement.
When purchasing a forklift, you need to decide what makes the most sense for your application. Are you inside or outside, smooth or rough surface, warehouse, construction yard? Tight areas or open. Most forklifts require a specific type of tire and can not always be changed to a different style. Pneumatic tire forklifts have a higher center of gravity and longer wheel base. These can be used inside and outside.
Cushion tire forklifts have a lower center of gravity and typically used inside warehouse where there are narrow aisles and limited area to move.

Contact us for a price today.

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