Choosing Between Cushion & Pneumatic Tires
Considerably contributing to the handling and safety of the machine are forklift tires. They also impact the maintenance expenses. The type of forklift would determine to a large extent the type of tire as most forklifts are made with a particular frame that accepts only a specific kind of tire. It helps to understand the properties of both cushion and pneumatic tires before selecting a tire.
Instructions
1 Check your forklift owner guidebook for specifications about tires. Most likely your forklift will function either on cushion tires or pneumatic tires. This would limit your options to the type of tire for which the forklift frame is constructed.
2 Check the type of forklift. Electric pallet jack trucks and electric forklift trucks usually are made to utilize cushion tires which do not require much friction. Pneumatic tires are generally used for forklifts that function on liquid propane gas or diesel.
3 Check the kind of terrain. Soft cushion tires are constructed for even terrain whilst pneumatic tires are suitable for rough terrain. Cushion tires, if utilized on grounds which are uneven, can cause the forklift to get stuck because they are set lower. Pneumatic tires perform well on crushed concrete, gravel and packed stones but not on very rough terrain and potholed surfaces.
4 Make certain you know the space limitations. Forklifts utilized mostly for indoor applications should be able to turn in tight spaces. Cushion tires work better than pneumatic tires in those types of environments.
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