Choosing Between Pneumatic and Cushion Tires
Forklift tires contribute a lot to your equipment's handling and safety characteristics, as well as affecting maintenance expenses. The type of forklift would determine to a large extent the type of tire because nearly all forklifts are constructed with a specific frame which accepts just a particular kind of tire. It helps to understand the properties of both cushion and pneumatic tires prior to selecting a tire.
Instructions
1 Check your forklift owner manual for specifications regarding tires. Most likely your forklift runs either on pneumatic tires or cushion tires. This will limit your choice to the type of tire for which the forklift frame is constructed.
2 Make certain you know the specific kind of forklift you are utilizing. Electric forklift trucks and electric pallet jack trucks are usually built to utilize cushion tires that do not require much friction. Pneumatic tires are normally used for forklifts that are powered by liquid propane gas or diesel.
3 Make certain you know what type of ground you would be utilizing the forklift on. Soft cushion tires are made for even terrain whilst pneumatic tires are suitable for rough terrain. Cushion tires, if used on grounds that are uneven, could cause the forklift to get stuck as they are set lower. Pneumatic tires perform well on gravel, packed stones and crushed concrete but not on very rough terrain and potholed surfaces.
4 Check space limitations. Forklifts used mostly indoors should be able to turn in tight areas. Cushion tires really work better than pneumatic tires in those types of situations.
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