Lift trucks are available in many different shapes and sizes, and each type of forklift has a unique set of tires. In general, tires are classified as pneumatic or cushion, although distinctions extist within those categories. Cushion tire and pneumatic tire forklifts have different structures, which makes them lack cross-compatibility.

Despire the fact that most forklift tires are tough and sturdy, they do need to be replaced periodically. Raymond West offers tires for a variety of lift trucks at very favorable prices.

Cushion Tires

At times referred to as Press On Tires, this sort of tire is most often used inside, and at times outside on flat surface materials. Press on tires have a smaller diameter as opposed to other varieties of lift truck tires, and thus possess a smaller turning radius. This means they are best for narrower spaces like warehouse aisles. Mounting a cushion tire on a forklift wheel needs a hydraulic press.

Within the press on tire categorization, there exist a couple of typical types:

Rubber Cushion Tires: Rubber cushion tires can be used indoors or on level surfaces outside like concrete or asphalt. They are constructed with solid rubber, shaped to fit around a steel band. This type of tire can come smooth or with treading. Frequently the forward tires will be treaded while the back tires that control steering are smooth.

Polyurethane Cushion Tires: Solid poly tires can hold heavier loads compared to rubber tires, and are ideal for narrow aisles, order pickers, and other warehouse tasks. These tires are lightweight, and are more resistant to chunking, tearing, and splitting in comparison to rubber, and they can survive up to twice as long as rubber with proper maintenance.

Pneumatic Tires

Pneumatic and solid pneumatic tires often are used in outdoor settings, and are better suited to rough or uneven surface conditions as opposed to press on tires. They have excellent traction and higher clearance with the ground making them optimal for rougher surfaces.

Regular Pneumatic Tires: This kind of pneumatic tire is inflated with air, and is optimally used on the roughest surfaces where shock absorption is important, both for the integrity of the forklift and the comfort of the operator. The one concern about regular pneumatic tires is that they are subject to punctures, so sometimes they are filled with foam instead of air to reduce flats.

Solid Pneumatic Tires: Solid pneumatic tires are designed for smooth surface inside and outside heavy duty scenarios. Made from solid rubber and nearly puncture proof, they are best used for environments with sharp objects, such as construction sites or recycling yards.

Non Marking Tires

Solid, solid pneumatic, and pneumatic tires have non-marking options available. These are assembled with hydrated silicas and other additives to prevent leaving floors marred by black marks.

These kinds of tires are frequently used in retail or other areas where clean floors are important. Sometimes they are used in a selection of industrial or food processing plants where dust reduction and cleanliness are important.

There are a few drawbacks to using non-marking tires. First and foremost, they often don’t have the durability of other tire varieties and can need more frequent replacement. Another issue is that they are more prone to static electricity buildup, and a lift with them must be equipped with static abatement options.

Forklift Tires Near Me

When maintained properly, your lift truck tires can decrease energy usage, significantly improve the comfort of operators, and elevate your overall efficiency. To speak with a forklift tire expert, call Raymond West today!

Raymond West's Calexico facility serves Imperial County and Yuma County, Including Calexico, Brawley, El Centro, San Luis, Yuma and surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Calexico Forklift Dealer

285 Rood Rd
Calexico, CA 92231
(760) 768-8700