Forklifts are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, and each type of forklift has a different set of tires. Generally, tires are either cushion or pneumatic, although subcategories are present within those options. Pneumatic tire and cushion tire forklifts have different structures, which makes them not cross-compatible.

Despire the fact that your tires are tough and durable, they do need to be replaced periodically. Raymond West offers tires for all sorts of lift trucks at highly affordable prices.

Cushion Tires

At times known as Press On Tires, this sort of tire is most often used inside, and also outdoors on level surface materials. Cushion tires are of a smaller diameter compared to other varieties of forklift tires, and thus possess a narrower turning radius; making them better for confined spaces like warehouse aisles. Mounting a cushion tire onto a lift truck wheel mandates the use of a hydraulic press.

Within the cushion tire categorization, there exist a couple of standard types:

Rubber Cushion Tires: Rubber cushion tires are often used inside or on level surfaces outside such as concrete or asphalt. They are constructed with solid rubber, molded to fit around a steel band. This sort of tire is available smooth or with a tread. Usually the front tires will be treaded while the rear wheels that control steering are smooth.

Polyurethane Cushion Tires: Solid poly tires work with heavier loads than their rubber counterparts, and are optimal for use in narrow aisles, order pickers and other warehouse duties. These lightweight tires are more resistant to splitting, tearing, and chunking than rubber, and they can last up to twice as long as rubber when properly cared for.

Pneumatic Tires

Pneumatic and solid pneumatic tires are commonly used in outdoor settings, and are better equipped for rough or uneven surface conditions than cushion tires. They have excellent traction and higher clearance with the ground making them well suited to uneven terrain.

Regular Pneumatic Tires: This variety of tire is inflated with air, and is optimally used on the roughest surfaces where shock absorption is a concern, both for the longevity of the forklift and the comfort of the operator. The one concern about these tires is that they are in danger of puncture, so they are sometimes filled with foam in order to prevent flats.

Solid Pneumatic Tires: Solid pneumatic tires are good for smooth surface indoor and outdoor heavy duty situations. Made from solid rubber and nearly puncture resistant, they are the best option for places with sharp objects, like recycling yards or construction sites.

Non Marking Tires

Non-marking options are available for solid, solid pneumatic, and pneumatic tires. These are made with hydrated silicas and other additives to avoid leaving floors covered in black marks.

These types of tires are frequently used in retail or any spots where floor aesthetics are important. They are likewise used in some industrial or food processing plants where dust reduction and cleanliness are important.

There are a few detractors to using non-marking tires. The first is that they don’t tend to be as durable as other tire varieties and will need more frequent replacement. One more issue is that static electricity builds up on them, and a forklift with them has to be equipped with static abatement technology.

Forklift Tires Near Me

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

Raymond West's Santa Clarita / Valencia facility serves the northern region of Los Angeles County and the San Fernando Valley, including Valencia, Santa Clarita, San Fernando, Sylmar, Sun Valley, Reseda, Canoga Park, Van Nuys, North Hollywood, Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena, Hollywood and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Santa Clarita / San Fernando Valley Forklift Dealer

28303 Industry Dr
Valencia, CA 91355
(661) 206-0462