4 tips to optimise the lifespan of tyres
You might think that the maintenance of machines and their vital parts would be fairly standard and straightforward. This may be the reason maintenance is not always performed as thoroughly as it needs to be. Tyres are the largest replacement cost you’ll have over the entire operational lifespan of a machine: one more reason why it’s so important to properly maintain tyres. It will extend the life of the tyres, save you money and reduce downtime. Small jobs make a big difference.
1. Maintain correct tyre pressure
Just like a car, it is very important that pneumatic tyres are inflated to the correct pressure to save energy and prevent damage. Pneumatic tyres lose air pressure after continuous driving. Check the tyre pressure on a monthly basis and make sure to refill the tyres to the correct pressure. With underinflated tyres, one runs a greater risk that the machine will topple over. Overinflation makes the tyres stiff. It decreases resistance to hits and bumps.
Tip: Be prepared and make sure to also check the pressure of the spare tyres.
2. Inspect treads regularly
Get to know the tread of the machines. This will help to identify excessive wear. One can use the pneumatic tyres until the tread pattern has worn away. Wearing beyond the tread pattern represents a safety hazard, with the tyres becoming more susceptible to punctures, leaks and blowouts.
Solid tyres also have a tread pattern. However, they are not completely worn out when the tread pattern is completely gone. Using a tyre cutter, it’s possible to etch a new pattern into the tyre tread. One can keep repeating this process until reaching the ‘60-J’ line, at which point, the solid tyres are completely worn out.
3. Drive safe
Good driving behaviour is essential to prevent the wear and tear of your tyres. Taking turns too quickly, accelerating hard and braking abruptly are also known to cause damage. As well as saving money by wearing out the tyres more slowly, this lowers the rolling resistance, saving energy and fuel.
4. Keep the tyres away from damaging sources
Avoid parking the machines anywhere they will receive prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Sunlight will make the tyres wear out much quicker. We also advise avoiding contact with grease, petrol, volatile solvents or other substances that will cause the rubber to deteriorate.
At TVH, we offer a wide range of tyres suitable for a variety of machines. Browse our range to find the right part and tools, or contact us for more information.
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