​5 Ways You're Damaging Your Forklift Tires

18th Jul 2019

Damaged forklift tires can be a threat to profitable business operations. In most cases, they directly lead to increased fuel consumption, reduced efficiency and pose threats to safety.

However, most of the damage on forklift tires occurs from engaging in harmful habits that accelerate the wear and tear.

In today's article, we look at five ways you could be damaging your forklift tires and what you can do about it.

Running Over Debris

It is common for a busy warehouse to experience an occasional build-up of debris.

When the forklift runs over this debris it creates a situation whereby pieces of the tire are cut off leading to chunking.

If this continues for a while the tires will become completely damaged and a source of great fatigue to the operator due to bumpy rides.

You should avoid running over debris instead make sure it is removed from your path.

Exposure To Oil spills

When you are using heavy machinery with faulty engines it is usual to experience oil spills.

If forklift operators run over this oil spill with the forklift tires, the oil affects the chemical composition of the forklift exposing it to easy breakdown.

Over a period of time, you will notice an increase in the wear and tear of the forklift tires.

You should, therefore, encourage prompt cleaning up of any oil spills in your warehouse or you can opt to use the polyurethane tires which remain unaffected by the oil.

Improper Application

One of the damaging things you can do to your forklift is using it for the wrong application.

For instance, cushion tires are ideal for indoor work where they enable easy maneuverability, however, when you use them outdoors in harsh environments you will end up accelerating their wear and tear.

You should always be aware of the environment you intend to use your forklift and the kind of forklift tires that are a good fit for that environment.

Overloading The Forklift

Overloading your forklift is also another way you are damaging your forklift.

When a forklift is overloaded, most of the weight is borne by the forklift tires which leads to a rapid build-up of heat.

If this continues for some time, the forklift tires will end up cracking. It is also a major safety risk as it exposes you to tip-over accidents.

You should, therefore, ensure that your operators do not overload your forklifts.

Improper Driving Habits

Training your forklift operators is also a crucial step to ensure you limit damage to your forklift tires.

The reason for this is that it prevents them from form engaging in improper driving habits that are damaging.

For instance, if your forklift operators engage in spinning or aggressive braking the forklift tires will end up developing flat spots.

These flat spots reduce the traction of the forklift tires exposing the operators to accidents.

Therefore, ensure your warehouse is free of any form of debris or oils spills, encourage proper driving habits amongst your operators, discourage overloading and apply the forklift tires in the right environment. 

Forklift Tire Company is one of the largest suppliers of forklift tires in the USA. We are happy to help you find the right tires for your forklift truck. Visit our online store here for great discounts or email us at sales@forklifttire.com, our customer service team is ready to assist you.