Forklifts are available in many different sizes and shapes, and each sort of forklift uses a unique set of tires. Generally, tires are either pneumatic or cushion, however there are some distinctions within those options. Cushion tire and pneumatic tire lift trucks have different types of frames, which makes them lack interchangeability.

While your tires are sturdy and durable, they have to undergo periodic replacement. Raymond West sells tires for a variety of forklifts at highly competitive prices.

Cushion Tires

Sometimes called Press On Tires, this variety of tire is generally used inside, and also outdoors on level surface materials. Press on tires are shorter in diameter compared to other sorts of lift truck tires, and as such have a smaller turning radius; making them best for narrower circumstances like warehouse aisles. Mounting a press on tire on a forklift wheel needs a hydraulic press.

Among the press on tire selection, a couple of typical types are found:

Rubber Cushion Tires: Rubber cushion tires can be used inside or on flat surfaces outside like concrete or asphalt. They are made from solid rubber, shaped to fit around a steel band. These types of tires can come smooth or with treading. Frequently the forward wheels of a forklift will have treaded tires while the rear tires responsible for steering will be smooth.

Polyurethane Cushion Tires: Solid poly tires can support bigger loads than their rubber counterparts, and they are optimal for narrow aisles, order pickers, and other warehouse jobs. These lightweight tires are more resistant to splitting, tearing, and chunking in comparison to rubber, and they can last up to twice as long as rubber when taken care of.

Pneumatic Tires

Pneumatic and solid pneumatic tires are commonly used outdoors, and are better suited to uneven or rough surface conditions compared to cushion tires. They have superb traction and higher ground clearance meaning they are optimal for uneven terrain.

Regular Pneumatic Tires: This type of pneumatic tire is filled with air, and is ideal for rougher surfaces where there is a concern about shock absorption, for both the safety of the forklift and the operator’s comfort. The concern about regular pneumatic tires is that they are subject to punctures, so they are sometimes filled with foam to ward off flats.

Solid Pneumatic Tires: Solid pneumatic tires are designed for smooth surface indoor / outdoor heavy duty situations. Constructed with solid rubber and nearly puncture proof, they are best used for places with pointy objects, like recycling yards or construction sites.

Non Marking Tires

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

These sorts of tires are commonly used in retail or any places where unmarked floors are of concern. They may also be used inside certain industrial or food processing plants where cleanliness and dust reduction are important.

There are a few detractors to using non-marking tires. The first is that sometimes they don’t have the durability of traditional tire varieties and can need replacement more often. Another problem is that they experience static electricity buildup, and a lift using them has to be equipped with static remediation technology.

Forklift Tires Near Me

When maintained properly, your lift truck tires can decrease energy usage, dramatically improve operator comfort, and elevate your overall efficiency. To speak with a forklift tire specialist, call Raymond West today!

Raymond West's Long Beach service area includes Long Beach, North Long Beach, Wilmington, San Pedro, Lomita, Torrance and nearby surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Long Beach Forklift Dealer

Long Beach
(562) 444-1222