Selecting Between Pneumatic and Cushion Tires
Forklift tires contribute a lot to your machine's handling and safety characteristics, as well as impacting maintenance costs. The kind of forklift will determine to a large extent the type of tire because most forklifts are constructed with a particular frame that accepts just a specific kind of tire. It helps to understand the properties of both cushion and pneumatic tires before choosing a tire.
Instructions
1 For tire specifications, you must check your forklift owner manual. Most likely your forklift runs either on pneumatic tires or cushion tires. This will limit your choice to the kind of tire wherein the forklift frame is built.
2 Make certain you know the particular type of forklift you are using. Electric forklift trucks and electric pallet jack trucks usually are built to utilize cushion tires that do not need a lot of friction. Pneumatic tires are normally utilized for forklifts that are powered by diesel or liquid propane gas.
3 Check the kind of terrain. Soft cushion tires are made for even grounds whereas pneumatic tires are suitable for rough grounds. Cushion tires, if utilized on surfaces which are not even, could cause the forklift to get stuck since they are set lower. Pneumatic tires perform well on crushed concrete, gravel and packed stones but not on really rough terrain and potholed surfaces.
4 Make sure you know the space limitations. Forklifts utilized mainly for indoor applications must be able to turn in tight areas. Cushion tires really work better than pneumatic tires in those types of situations.
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