How to choose loader tires and what are the precautions – tips to ensure longevity and optimum performance

 Take, for example, a loader tractor which is put to best use for various field operations. In this sense, ask yourself what would make this machine perform better and that too on a more consistent level? The one-word answer would be ‘tires’ and to be more accurate loader tires. Overall, tire wear can significantly impact the performance of your tractor or any other machine that you happen to be employing and this is why it is wise to go over the fundamentals when it comes to choosing the right loader tire.

Matthew T Rader, https://matthewtrader.com, Caterpillar 950k Wheel Loader, CC BY-SA 4.0

The scientific stance

A loader’s operations and output will be determined by the tire that you use. Moving a tad further, the loader’s traction, braking and economy bears a direct link with the choice of tire. Tires fall into the category of a consumable product and in turn, loader tires arrive carrying a heftier price tag which is all the more reason to approach the subject matter with purpose and precision. From a scientific point of view, the selection of loader tires is crucial when it comes to ticking off the boxes relating to safety, longevity and importantly, cost! Bear in mind that different environments and operations will warrant attention to detail and a careful eye in selecting a product which will make sure that work continues uninterrupted.

The process of choosing

The thought of randomly selecting loader tires must be discarded at the very outset for if you find yourself with tires of varying service life, the durability of your products will suffer. The golden rule to be adhered to is that similar axles require the same tires. Essentially, opt for branded products as opposed to inferior or lesser-known products that will invariably meet your eye in the market. Branded loader tires comprise a higher lift and are manufactured for a certain model at the beginning. For example, consider the products marketed by GRI Tires which include a range of material handling tires inclusive of the GRIP EX LT100 variant which is highly shock resistant and well suited for backhoe loaders. Moreover, two-wheel spacing wheels are utilised to guard against tire wear resulting from contact between the tires and promote better heat dissipation. Further, the wear degree of the coaxial tires of the loader tires must remain the same which in other words means that the task of simultaneous replacement of the same must be followed when circumstances demand it. 

How to maximize tire performance

First up is the mandatory assessment of tire pressure on both front and rear tires. Improper tire pressure can bring about back-to-front bouncing and side-to-side motions which when taken cumulatively will impede your daily operations. Prolonging tire life and getting the most out of your investment is imperative and therefore, have a closer look at the differential lock. Always remember to lock it only if you desire extra traction. Running parallel to the usage of the loader tire is the need to pay attention to the surrounding environment in which you find yourself operating in. Tire punctures are bound to get in the way of things which can be extremely infuriating but this does not mean that one should go looking for trouble. Wet conditions and standing water can make it easier for sharp rocks and other hazardous materials to puncture your loader tire. It is advisable to only turn your front tires when in motion to mitigate such effects. Sharp and sudden turns can be detrimental even at low speeds, which must stay well clear. In instances where the bucket is fully loaded, always fall back to a three-point manoeuver that will guarantee longer-lasting tires and smoother functions.