It’s always important to know the correct forklift tire type and size for your material handling operations. From rough terrain pneumatic tires to indoor cushion options, the ideal tire size and type varies based on several factors, including industry, environment, and production sensitivity. Understanding these factors will help you determine the type of forklift tire that will result in optimal safety and productivity. Knowing what you need is the best way to get value when buying new or used forklift parts for sale. This article is going to outline all you need to know about forklift tire types and sizes. Read on.
Pneumatic forklift tires
Pneumatic tires can be used for indoor and outdoor jobs, depending on the materials. They have thicker thread than cushion tires, which offers traction and stability on uneven surfaces.
Air Pneumatic Tires
Air pneumatic forklift tires closely resemble car tires. They are filled with air and feature thick, durable treading, which is ideal for both indoor or outdoor applications. Pneumatic tires are wider and longer than their cushion counterparts, making them more suitable than cushion tires for outdoor environments. They can also easily absorb uneven ground. Use air pneumatic tires for;
- Jobs that require indoor and outdoor use
- Multi-use and versatile jobs on gravel, small rocks or other uneven outdoor sites
- Heavy-load and high-capacity projects
- Work requiring a sturdy, shock-absorbing ride
Solid Pneumatic Tires
Made from solid rubber, pneumatic forklift tires won’t be easily punctured by job site debris like metal or nails. Their toughness and durability is best applied in outdoor environments, like recycling centers or lumber yards, due to their ability to tackle rough terrain. While they usually cost more than air pneumatic tires, the solid pneumatic option makes up for it with a long lifespan and maximized productivity in tough job sites. Use Solid Pneumatic Tires for;
- Lumberyards
- Recycling
- Railyards
- Agriculture job sites
- Airport loading site
- Other rough terrain application
- Oil, gas & mining sites
Cushion Forklift Tires
Formed from solid rubber molded to a steel band, cushion tires are ideal for smooth, indoor surfaces, like you’d find in a warehouse. This option is often more cost-effective and sustainable than pneumatic variations, as they require less manufacturing material and labor. Cushion tire forklifts work well in compact warehouse areas in which small tires and low ground clearance are required. Use cushion tires for;
- Indoor warehouses & other indoor job sites with smooth flooring
- Compact spaces requiring low ground clearance
- Smaller forklift frames
- Navigating narrow aisles
Specialty Forklift Tires
Non-Marking Forklift Tires
Non-marking forklift tires help you avoid leaving black marks and stains on your warehouse floor. You can customize pneumatic, solid, and cushion tires to be non-marking when the situation demands it. Traditional tires can be converted to non-marking tires, which may be used in an array of indoor and outdoor warehouse settings when needed.
Designed without carbon black, non-marking tires are also the ideal solution in sensitive applications like food and paper production, as they avoid cross-contamination with the carbon dust. Use non-marking tires for;
- Warehouses where you want to avoid leaving black marks on the floor
- Food storage & packaging operations
- Paper production sites
- Other job-sites in which operators need to avoid cross-contamination
Forklift Tire Size Guide
You can find your recommended size in your owner’s manual, or often on the sidewall of the tire. It’s important to note that press-on and pneumatic tires record their dimensions differently.
Press-on dimensions are listed as:
“Height of the Outer Diameter x Width x Rim Inside Diameter,”
Pneumatic dimensions are listed as:
“Width x Rim Inside Diameter.”
For example, if you’re searching for a 21-inch tall cushion forklift tire, it would be listed as “21 x 7 x 15.” Alternatively, a 14-inch wide pneumatic tire would be listed “14 x 24.”
Wrap up
Forklift wheels and frame are usually designed for either pneumatic or cushion options and can rarely accommodate other types. While you can put traction tires on the rear wheels of your forklift and soft tires on the front wheels, they must be all cushion or all pneumatic. Front and rear tires can differ but you must make sure that both the front pair and back pair are the same type, respectively. That way, you will avoid damaging the steering and axle components of your machine. Accurate Forklift in Atlanta is your one-stop-shop for all types of used forklifts for sale. Call us today to discuss your requirement for used forklift parts for sale, forklifts for sale, forklifts for rent, as well as forklift repair and maintenance in Atlanta.
Seven tips for proper battery maintenance
- Keep the battery clean, dry, and free from corrosion
- Maintain the correct water level (about one half inch below the battery cap opening)
- Add water only after the charge cycle
- Set up a weekly or bi-monthly watering schedule to ensure proper water levels
- Avoid opportunity charging (charging during break times and lunch breaks) because each time you connect the battery to a charger, it uses one of its life cycles
- Inspect your battery for any defects or malfunctions, and have your service provider repair them as needed
- Have your batteries washed and serviced semi-annually to help control acid and corrosion.
10 commandments of battery care
- Add approved water only— never add acid
- Keep electrolyte level above separator protectors
- Keep battery top clean and dry
- Keep flames and metal away from battery top
- Keep vent caps tightly in place
- Discharge to no lower than 80 percent, and do not operate battery if the specific gravity is below 1.150 for Powerline, Varta, Waterless, and Top Power batteries, and 1.175 for Energy-Plus batteries
- Cool before charging or operating if battery is above 115 degrees Fahrenheit
- Only use approved chargers of correct voltage and current output
- Keep truck compartment and battery cover open during charging
- When in doubt, call your Accurate Forklift Service representative for assistance
Watering instructions:
- Approved water: Only distilled and deionized water should be added to batteries, be sure to check your manual for specifications.
- Proper electrolyte level: The electrolyte level must be kept between the “high watering level” and the separator protectors. Only fill batteries at the end of the charging cycle.
Talk to Accurate Forklift
Whether it is repairs and maintenance or forklift equipment rental service in Atlanta, Accurate Forklift has got you covered. Talk to us today to discuss your requirements and hear how we can help. We also offer heavy-duty forklift rental services. Just dial 770-692-1455. You can also email us at service@accurateforklift.net, rentals@accurateforklift.net or sales@accurateforklift.net.
