When talking about warehouse operations, forklifts stand out as the backbone, and their safety is crucial for drivers /employees in your industry. They play an important role when it comes to ensuring smooth lifting and moving operations in a warehouse or construction site, hence, their maintenance is equally as important.
In terms of maintenance, several operators overlook major areas of care; this includes the maintenance of the tire, which is usually confusing for most people. This is because detecting problems in the tire of any Moffett equipment are tricky since they have no suspension. The tires of the lift truck end up taking most of the stress and the weight from the heavy loads.
As you go through this article, it should guide you on how and when you can determine whether your lift truck tires need a replacement and the importance of knowing the right time to replace the tires. In forklifts, you should know that cushion tires and pneumatic ones are the two popular choices, and the focus below will remain on these two in this post.
Here’s an idea of what the warning signs may look like:
The Possible Warning Signs Your Forklift Tires Will Show
You should know there are several tire brands for forklifts, but several options fall under the cushion and pneumatic ones. Each one of these has its own warning sign, especially when it comes to knowing the time of replacement. You should note that cushion tires usually go on beyond their working life when the rubber wears off to about 30-35%.
When using pneumatic tires, you need to check the tread and wearing off effects, and if you experience a great difference, it will mean that the point of traction is here and it will compromise the stability of the equipment a great deal.
Pneumatic Tires Warning Signs
Experienced people, such as those at Bobby Park Truck & Equipment or any other dealer in your area will guide you about how pneumatic tires greatly differ from cushion tires. Pneumatic forklift tires are best for outdoor use. Here are some of the areas you need to keep a check on, and if you notice any change, then you need to consider replacing the tires.
Inflation: In terms of stability, you need to know that under and over inflation often has an effect on the stability of the lift truck and this accelerates the wear and tear. It can also affect the stopping power of the vehicle, due to the traction that lessens.
Tire Cuts: If in case you notice any visible cord or frayed cord piles, it is important that you should replace the tires of your lift truck. In most cases, the results can lead to loss of air, causing instability and balance issues.
Balding: The wearing off effects is usually at different rates, so it is important that operators inspect the lug for tires, outer tread, and smooth centers.
Simple Wearing Away: It is crucial to stick to the 2-inch rule as a benchmark, but then again, this isn’t something straightforward in regards to knowing when you need to replace the forklift tires. A major reason for this is that most pneumatic tires have wider sizes compared to cushion tires and they are preferable for use in tougher environments.
Cushion Tires Warning Signs
Although the wearing time of these tires is relatively slow, tires can damage easily. It is important to keep a check on the top warning signs for these and consider their replacement.
Simple Wearing: It is important to check the wearing off rate of lift trucks. In most cushion tires, it is common to see about 50% of lines showing wearing off signs. When the top tire meets the wear line, this is the time that you need to invest in new tires.
Chunking and Tire Cracks: Often, pieces of rubber fall off from the tire, since they experience constant exposure to debris and misuse. Eventually, this will lead to the tires leaving huge rubber chunks and you will need to consider a replacement.
Tearing: In some cases the forklift tire could experience tears especially, if it passes on sharp objects, which will result in instability. You should know that this can pose great harm to the operator.
Flat Spots: In addition, misalignment and spinning may cause flat spots, or when the Moffett equipment comes to an abrupt halt. The best option is to consult experts and detect any signs of spots, by searching for balder parts on the forklift tire when compared to the rest.
Regular maintenance is important for the smooth operation of Moffett’s. Make sure that you check the condition of the tires at least once every week or before a shift. In addition, pay attention to other maintenance details, like the fluid levels, seatbelts and more.
