To help you select the correct Forklift Tire and Compound, we will ask you to think about the following factors: type of fuel used; average weight of load; average length of your run; kinds of problems you are having; kind of surfaces the forklift runs on; whether your forklift operates over dock plates; number of shifts and percentage of time the forklift is loaded; and the average speed and the top speed of your forklift
There are specific terms which describe various characteristics of tires. It can help to know what they mean. The term Durometer refers to the hardness of forklift tires. The range is usually from 83 to 95, the number increasing with the hardness of the tire. Most of the tires made today fall within a couple of standard industry classifications.
The operator could have a more comfortable ride if the tires are softer. They are preferable for applications which require frequent maneuvering because they offer better traction. They are could better tolerate driving over floor debris. For applications requiring maximum speed and long runs, soft tires are not suggested. They are made of softer compounds that have the tendency to heat up and wear faster than hard tires.
Harder tires are recommended for use requiring multiple shifts, long runs and high speeds. They are better than soft tires for maximum loads, and they will last longer and wear better. Hard tires give a less comfortable ride and are less forgiving of floor debris. They have the tendency to be more energy efficient as they offer less resistance.
For general applications, it is recommended to use Universal Compound tires. These are all-around tires that combine a lot of advantages.