Forklifts can be purchased in a variety of shapes and sizes, and each sort of forklift uses a unique set of tires. In general, tires are either cushion or pneumatic, however distinctions extist within those categories. Cushion tire and pneumatic tire forklifts have different types of frames, so they lack interchangeability.

Although most tires are tough and durable, they do need to undergo periodic replacement. Raymond West offers tires for all types of forklifts at extremely affordable prices.

Cushion Tires

Sometimes known as Press On Tires, this type of tire is primarily used indoors, and at times outside on smooth surfaces. Press on tires have a smaller diameter than other sorts of forklift tires, and thus possess a smaller turning radius. This means they are ideal for narrower spaces such as warehouse aisles. Mounting a cushion tire onto a forklift wheel requires a hydraulic press.

Within the cushion tire categorization, there are two typical types:

Rubber Cushion Tires: Rubber cushion tires are often used within a warehouse or on smooth surfaces outdoors like concrete or asphalt. They are constructed with solid rubber, molded around a solid steel band. This sort of tire can be smooth or have a tread. Often the forward wheels of a forklift will have treaded tires while the rear tires responsible for steering lack treading.

Polyurethane Cushion Tires: Solid polyurethane tires work with bigger loads than rubber tires, and are perfect for narrow aisles, order pickers and other warehouse scenarios. Lightweight tires like these are more resistant to chunking, tearing, and splitting than rubber, and they can survive up to twice as long as rubber when properly cared for.

Pneumatic Tires

Pneumatic and solid pneumatic tires are commonly used outside, and are better suited for uneven or rough surface conditions as opposed to cushion tires. They have superb traction and taller ground clearance making them well suited to rougher surfaces.

Regular Pneumatic Tires: This variety of pneumatic is pumped up with air, and is optimally used on very rough surfaces where shock absorption is a concern, both for the integrity of the forklift and the comfort of the operator. The one downside of regular pneumatic tires is that they are in danger of puncture, and sometimes they are filled with foam to reduce flats.

Solid Pneumatic Tires: Solid pneumatic tires are good for smooth surface indoor / outdoor heavy duty situations. Constructed with solid rubber and almost entirely puncture proof, they are a good choice for environments with sharp objects, such as recycling yards or construction sites.

Non Marking Tires

Pneumatic, solid neumatic, and solid tires have non-marking options available. They are made with hydrated silicas and other additives to refrain from leaving floors covered in black marks.

These varieties of tires are frequently used in retail facilities or any spots where clean floors are of concern. They may also be used in a selection of industrial or food processing plants where dust reduction and cleanliness are important.

There are a few detractors to using non-marking tires. First and foremost, sometimes they aren’t as durable as other tire varieties and as such need to be replaced more often. Another problem is that they are more prone to static electricity buildup, and a forklift with them must be set up with static abatement options.

Forklift Tires Near Me

When properly maintained, your lift truck tires can decrease energy usage, greatly improve operator comfort, and boost your overall productivity. To speak with a lift truck tire advisor, give Raymond West a call today!

Raymond West's Orange County service area includes Anaheim, Costa Mesa, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Orange, Santa Ana, Tustin and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Orange County Forklift Dealer

Orange County, CA
(714) 790-9300