Forklifts are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, and each sort of forklift has a different set of tires. Usually, tires are either cushion or pneumatic, however distinctions extist within those classifications. Pneumatic tire and cushion tire forklifts have differing frames, which makes them not cross-compatible.

Despire the fact that your forklift tires are sturdy and durable, they have to be changed out every now and then. Raymond West offers tires for all sorts of lift trucks at highly favorable prices.

Cushion Tires

Sometimes called Press On Tires, this sort of tire is generally used inside, and sometimes outdoors on smooth surface materials. Press on tires are shorter in diameter than other kinds of forklift tires, and thus have a smaller turning radius. This makes them ideal for smaller spaces like warehouse aisles. Fixating a cushion tire onto a lift truck wheel requires a hydraulic press.

As part of the press on tire category, two standard types are found:

Rubber Cushion Tires: Rubber cushion tires are used inside or on smooth outdoor surfaces such as concrete or asphalt. They are made from solid rubber, attaching around a solid steel band. This type of tire is available smooth or with a tread. Often the front tires will have a tread while the back tires that control steering lack treading.

Polyurethane Cushion Tires: Solid polyurethane tires can hold heavier loads than their rubber counterparts, and are ideal for use in narrow aisles, order pickers and other warehouse jobs. These tires are lightweight, and are more resistant to splitting, tearing, and chunking when compared to rubber, and their life can be up to twice as long as rubber when properly cared for.

Pneumatic Tires

Pneumatic and solid pneumatic tires are commonly used for outdoor applications, and are better suited for rough or uneven surface conditions as opposed to cushion tires. They possess excellent traction and higher ground clearance making them suited for uneven terrain.

Regular Pneumatic Tires: This sort of tire is pumped up with air, and is ideal for very rough surfaces where shock absorption is a concern, for both the longevity of the forklift and the comfort of the operator. The potential issue with these tires is that they are more easily punctured, and they are sometimes filled with foam instead of air in order to prevent flats.

Solid Pneumatic Tires: Solid pneumatic tires work best for level surface indoor / outdoor heavy duty scenarios. Made from solid rubber and basically puncture proof, they work best for terrain with pointy objects, such as construction sites or recycling yards.

Non Marking Tires

Non-marking options are available for pneumatic, solid pneumatic, and solid tires. They are assembled with hydrated silicas and other additives to avoid leaving floors marred by black marks.

These types of tires are commonly found in retail facilities or other spots where clean floors are important. They are likewise used in some industrial or food processing plants where dust reduction and cleanliness are concerns.

There are some detractors to using non-marking tires. Firstly, they often don’t have the durability of other tires and can need replacement more often. Another problem is that they experience static electricity buildup, and any lift that has them must be equipped with static abatement technology.

Forklift Tires Near Me

When maintained properly, your forklift tires can decrease energy usage, significantly improve the comfort of operators, and boost your collective efficiency. To speak with a forklift tire specialist, call Raymond West today!

Raymond West's Sacramento facility serves the greater Sacramento area and other parts of Northern California, including Sacramento, Elk Grove, Auburn, Placerville, Vacaville, Fairfield, Sausalito, Napa, Santa Rosa, Redding, Eureka and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Sacramento Forklift Dealer

900 National Dr
Sacramento, CA 95834
(800) 675-2500