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When to Replace Forklift Tires & Choosing the Right Type

Do you think you need new tires on your forklift? Take a look at these tips on choosing the right Type of forklift tire and when you should replace them.

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When it comes to forklift tires, “black and round” won’t cut it. The right tire—made from the proper compound, with the correct size and profile—can dramatically improve performance and tire life. So, what should you consider when buying forklift tires? Here’s your complete guide.

Forklift Tire Selection Factors

  • Manufacturer specifications
  • Load weight and frequency
  • Number of shifts and trips
  • Travel distance and speed
  • Forklift capacity and class
  • Surface conditions (smooth warehouse floors vs. rugged terrain)
  • Turning area
  • Type and weight of materials moved
  • Housekeeping needs (non-marking vs. black compounds)
A professional in-plant survey by a forklift tire expert or your local dealer can help determine the best compound, profile, and size for your application.

Nearly all forklift tires fall into two main categories: cushion tires and pneumatic tires.

Cushion Forklift Tires

  • Made of smooth solid rubber.
  • Ideal for indoor use on concrete or asphalt surfaces.
  • Common in warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers.
  • Lower initial cost and smaller size compared to pneumatic models.
  • Lower resale value.

Pneumatic Forklift Tires

  • Suitable for indoor and outdoor use on improved surfaces like blacktop or hard-packed dirt.
  • Common in lumber yards and construction sites.
  • Larger frame and higher initial cost, but better resale value.
  • Two types:
    • Solid Pneumatic Tires: Solid rubber, puncture-resistant—great for rough surfaces.
    • Air Pneumatic Tires: Air-filled, standard option for outdoor versatility.

Important: Cushion and pneumatic forklifts have different frames—you cannot simply swap tire types. However, you can change tread styles (smooth, traction, grooved, wide-track) or upgrade to resilient solid tires.

Forklift Tire Tread Options

  • Smooth tires: Best for dry indoor applications and steer axles.
  • Traction tires: General-purpose for varied conditions.
  • Grooved tires: For heavy-duty trucks and extreme loads.
  • Wide-track traction tires: All-season indoor/outdoor use.

How to Measure Forklift Tires

Forklift tire dimensions use these acronyms:

  • OD: Overall Diameter
  • SW: Section Width
  • SH: Section Height
  • ID: Internal Diameter
  • AR: Aspect Ratio

Use a tape measure to check OD, ID, and SW. Always confirm specifications in your forklift manual before purchasing.

When to Replace Forklift Tires

Worn tires can cause:

  • Reduced load capacity and overheating.
  • Lower speeds and poor ride comfort.
  • Decreased ground clearance and lift height.
  • Increased maintenance costs.

Signs It’s Time for Replacement

  • Wear Indicator Bar: Visible on the sidewall.
  • Manufacturer Nameplate: If tread wears to the top of the nameplate.
  • Deformities: Tearing, chunking, cracks, or flat spots.

Need help choosing or replacing forklift tires? Contact your local UniCarriers Forklift dealer for expert advice and service.

Forklift Basics