Selecting Between Cushion & Pneumatic Tires
Significantly contributing to the handling and safety of the machine are forklift tires. They also affect the maintenance expenses. The kind of forklift would determine to a large extent the kind of tire since nearly all forklifts are made with a specific frame that accepts just a specific kind of tire. It helps to know the properties of both cushion and pneumatic tires prior to selecting a tire.
Instructions
1 For tire specifications, you should check your forklift owner manual. Most likely your forklift runs either on cushion tires or pneumatic tires. This would limit your choice to the kind of tire wherein the forklift frame is built.
2 Make sure you know the particular kind of forklift you are utilizing. Electric pallet jack trucks and electric forklift trucks normally are constructed to utilize cushion tires that do not require much friction. Pneumatic tires are generally for forklifts that function on liquid propane gas or diesel.
3 Make sure you know what kind of terrain you would be utilizing the forklift on. Soft cushion tires are constructed for even terrain while pneumatic tires are best for rough terrain. Cushion tires, if used on uneven surface, could 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 potholed surfaces and really rough terrain.
4 Make certain you know the space limitations. Forklifts utilized mainly for indoor applications must be able to pivot in tight spaces. Cushion tires work better than pneumatic tires in those types of conditions.
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