To help you select the right Forklift Tire and Compound, we would ask you to think about the following things: type of fuel utilized; weight of your typical load; length of your standard run; types of issues you are having; type of surfaces the forklift runs on; whether or not your forklift operates over dock plates; number of shifts and percentage of time the forklift is loaded; and the normal speed and the top speed of your forklift
There are specific terms that describe different attributes of tires. It could help to know what they mean. The term Durometer means the hardness of forklift tires. The range is typically from 83 to 95, the number will increase that depends on the hardness of the tire. Nearly all of the tires made these days fall within a couple of standard industry classifications.
Softer tires offer the operator a more comfortable ride. They are preferable for applications which require frequent maneuvering because they offer better traction. They are could better tolerate driving over floor debris. For uses that need maximum speed and long runs, soft tires are not suggested. They are constructed of softer compounds which tend to heat up and wear faster compared to hard tires.
For applications that require multiple shifts, high speed and long runs, it is best to have harder tires. They are better than soft tires for maximum loads, and they will last longer and wear better. Hard tires are less forgiving of floor debris and give a less comfortable ride. They have the tendency to be more energy efficient because they offer less resistance.
Universal Compound tires combine advantages and are recommended as all-around tires for general use.