When to Replace Your Forklift Tires
Forklifts routinely bear substantial loads, and their tires are fundamental to supporting that weight. Given that the average forklift weighs about three times as much as the average car, ensuring that the tires are in top condition is crucial
When to Replace Your Forklift Tires
Forklifts are NOT Cars
The average forklift is three times heavier than the average car! The counterbalance weights in the rear of your forklift are there to balance the weight of the cargo on the forks. While cars feature brakes that apply to all four wheels, most forklifts only have breaking power on the front drive wheels.[LF1] [AV2] So why does that matter?
All these factors make forklifts more challenging to stop! If you use substandard tires, you increase the risk of issues like tip-overs, load loss, stability problems, and accelerated wear and tear. Quality tires in good condition enhance the efficiency of your forklifts and improve safety for operators.
Regular Tire Inspection and Replacement
Make checking your forklift tires part of your daily inspection routine! Replacing worn tires is essential for maintaining a safe and efficient working environment. To ensure balanced wear, it is advisable to replace all four tires simultaneously. Here are some key signs that indicate that your tires might need replacing:
· Tearing, Chunking, and Separation: Replace your tires immediately if you notice tearing or chunking, or if the tire is starting to separate from the rim.
· Flat/Bald Spots: Regularly check for evenness and tread loss. Tires with flat or bald spots compromise traction and should be replaced.
· Wear Beyond the ‘Wear Line’: Most forklift tires feature a 50% wear line. If wear surpasses this mark, it’s time for a replacement.
· Reduced Tire Height: The original tire height is marked on each tire. A reduction of 2 inches or more necessitates a replacement to avoid excess strain on your forklift, which can lead to premature wear.
If you are uncertain about the condition of your tires, contact Morrison for a free, no obligation tire survey. Delaying tire replacement after noticing these signs can jeopardize both operator safety and machine longevity.
Watch these videos for more detailed information:
How to perform a forklift smooth non-marking cushion tire inspection
How to perform a treaded tire inspection
When to replace forklift tires
Savings Opportunity!
Did you go look at your tires after reading this article? Do you think they need to be replaced? Mark your calendars and plan to take advantage of Morrison Industrial Equipment Co.’s 50th Annual September Tire Sale! This popular annual event is an excellent opportunity to save on quality tires and ensure your equipment remains in peak condition.
Resources:
Forklift Tire Guide & Warranty Page
© update