Signs That is is Time To Replace Your Forklift Tires

Forklifts don’t use a traditional suspension system, so the entire weight of the truck and its load rests on the tires. A 5,000 lb. capacity forklift can put over 11,000 lbs. of pressure on the front tires when fully loaded—that’s a lot of stress.

Worn tires put your operation at risk. They can:

• Damage your forklift
• Create instability that endangers your operator and others nearby
• Increase operator fatigue and mistakes due to rough, uncomfortable rides

Because bad tires quickly turn into a safety hazard, it’s critical to spot the warning signs early. Check your tires during every pre-shift inspection and watch for wear, damage, or flat spots.

If you notice any of these issues, contact W.D. Matthews right away. We’ll replace your tires on-site to keep your forklifts safe, stable, and productive.

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Worn over the wear line. Many forklift tires include a wear line, often called the 50% line. Replace the tires as soon as they reach that mark.

Chunking. If pieces or chunks of the tire break off, you need to replace the tires.

Tearing. If the tires tear in spots, replace them immediately.

Flat spots. Tires should stay round. If you see any flat areas, replace the tires.

When you inspect your tires, also check for uneven wear—both on individual tires and between front, rear, left, and right tires. Uneven wear may indicate a mechanical issue or application problem that causes premature tire damage.

Inspect the rims as well. If you see bending, replace them. For pneumatic tires, maintain the manufacturer’s recommended air pressure to ensure safety and performance.