Lift trucks are available in many different shapes and sizes, and each sort of forklift has its own specific set of tires. In general, tires are classified as pneumatic or cushion, however there are some distinctions within those options. Pneumatic tire and cushion tire forklifts have different types of frames, so they lack interchangeability.

Although your tires are tough and sturdy, they must be be changed out every now and then. Raymond West has tires for all types of forklifts at highly favorable prices.

Cushion Tires

Sometimes known as Press On Tires, this sort of tire is primarily used indoors, and also outdoors on flat surface materials. Press on tires are of a shorter diameter compared to other types of lift truck tires, and as such have a shorter turning radius. This makes them best for smaller spaces such as warehouse aisles. Putting a cushion tire on a lift truck wheel requires the use of a hydraulic press.

As part of the cushion tire selection, a couple of typical types are present:

Rubber Cushion Tires: Rubber cushion tires can be used within a warehouse or on even outdoor surfaces like asphalt or concrete. They are constructed with solid rubber, molded to fit around a steel band. This type of tire can come smooth or with treading. Often the forward wheels of a forklift will have treaded tires while the rear wheels that control steering will be smooth.

Polyurethane Cushion Tires: Solid poly tires can support larger loads compared to rubber tires, and are ideal for narrow aisle applications, order pickers and other warehouse jobs. These lightweight tires are more resistant to tearing, chunking, and splitting when compared to rubber, and their life can be up to twice as long as rubber when carefully maintained.

Pneumatic Tires

Pneumatic and solid pneumatic tires are commonly used for outdoor applications, and are better suited for rough or uneven surface materials than press on tires. They possess superb traction and higher ground clearance meaning they are optimal for rougher terrain.

Regular Pneumatic Tires: This sort of tire is pumped up with air, and works best with very rough surfaces where there is a concern about shock absorption, both for the lift truck’s longevity and the operator’s comfort. The potential issue with regular pneumatic tires is that they are in danger of puncture, so sometimes they are filled with foam to prevent flats.

Solid Pneumatic Tires: Solid pneumatic tires are good for smooth surface inside and outside heavy duty applications. Built from solid rubber and almost entirely puncture resistant, they are a good choice for environments 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 constructed using hydrated silicas and other additives to prevent leaving floors covered in black marks.

These varieties of tires are commonly used in retail or any spots where floor aesthetics are important. They are likewise used inside certain industrial or food processing plants where cleanliness and dust reduction are factors.

There are a few drawbacks to using non-marking tires. The first is that they often are not as durable as traditional tires and will need replacement more often. One more complication is that static electricity builds up on them, and a forklift using them must be equipped with static abatement options.

Forklift Tires Near Me

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

Raymond West's Santa Barbara County service area includes Buellton, Carpinteria, Goleta, Lompoc, Santa Barbara, Santa Maria and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Santa Barbara Forklift Dealer

Santa Barbara County, CA
(805) 749-2777