How do you choose the best tires for your tractor?
- Consider the terrain you use your tractor in
- Factor in the durability of the tire
- Research about tire maintenance
- Establish a budget
Tractor tires are exposed to different ground conditions, such as soil, mud, concrete, rocks, dirt, and more. In addition, they are used for heavy-duty applications, such as pulling or pushing attachments and implements. In order for your tractor tires to last long, you need to pick a suitable one that meets your needs. With so many tire types out there, choosing the right one can be challenging. To help you out, here is a guide on how to choose tractor tires. Keep on reading!
Consider The Terrain You Use The Tractor In
The terrain you use your tractor in has a significant impact on the efficiency and longevity of its tires. Not all tires are made for all ground conditions, and using the wrong tires can affect your productivity.
For instance, there are three types of tractor tires that you’ll find in the market.
- Agricultural Tractor Tires (R1)
- Turf Tractor Tires (R3)
- Industrial Tractor Tires (R4)
The most common type of farm tires, R1 tires perform well in muddy fields and dirt. These provide the highest traction compared to the other tractor tires. If you need your tractor mainly for fieldwork, this will be a good investment. Another variant of the R1 tires is the R2, which comes with more tread depth and is suitable for paddy fields.
But if you use your tractor on grassy fields more often, then R3 tires are more suitable. R3 tires are designed specifically to be used on lawnmowers and golf carts because the tread can be used on turf surfaces without harming them. It doesn’t leave an imprint, which helps preserve the condition of the grass.
Lastly, R4 tires have a tread depth that’s between R1 and R3 tires. This makes R4 tires more wear-resistant and suitable for concrete, asphalt, and gravel roads. That’s why these tractor tires are also used for forklifts and on construction sites.
Factor In The Durability Of The Tire
To get the best value for your money from your tractor tires, you should also consider their durability. Remember that the durability of the tires is affected by the terrain you use them on. For instance, R2 tires can be used for paddy fields, but if you use them to travel on roads often, they might wear out quickly.
Tractor tires can also be categorized as radial or bias-ply tires. Radial tires offer a smoother ride and a longer tread life. Moreover, radial tires can be used at low air pressures. This helps give the tires more traction and can save more on fuel.
On the other hand, bias-ply tires can be operated at lesser speeds. These have a durable and tough sidewall that can withstand damage from stumps and rocks, so they’re suitable for tough applications.
Research About Tire Maintenance
Before you choose a tractor tire, it’s also helpful to know how much maintenance they need. For instance, R1 tires have deep lugs and big bars which makes it possible for them to provide superior traction. In addition, R1 tires also feature self-cleaning capabilities, even when used in other ground conditions that require increased traction.
Bias-ply tires are generally less expensive to maintain, repair, and replace. But if you’re looking for longer tread life on hard ground, radial tires are another good option. Since they run better at lower air pressures, they can also help you save on fuel costs.
Establish A Budget
Your budget plays an important role in what tractor tires you can choose. If you want to save on initial costs, you can try looking for used tires. Just make sure to look for quality product offerings. If you want to get the most out of your tractor tires, new products are highly recommended because they last longer.
When it comes to radial and bias-ply tires, the bias-ply tires are generally more inexpensive, making them easier on the pocket to replace. But since radial tires can provide a long tread life, they are a cost-effective option as well.
Key Takeaway
Choosing tractor tires can be tricky, especially if you don’t have knowledge about the features you need to look for. If you need more tips on how to choose tractor tires, you can contact us here at Ford Tractor!
We have a wide variety of tractors in the Philippines that are suitable for your agricultural purposes. With years of experience in providing quality farm equipment in the Philippines, we have the technical know-how and skills to help you pick the right equipment that will match your needs.
Other than that, you can also rely on us when it comes to parts availability and affordability. We have been in the business of spare parts distribution since the 1980s, so you can trust us to have spares available for our machines. We have the widest inventory and the most competitive price when it comes to spare parts.
