and how regular maintenance will get you the best return on investment.
When it comes to skid-steer tires, it is not one size fits all. There are enough options available that there is no reason for not using the“ right tool for the job.”
The two basic divisions of tire type are pneumatic and solid. As indicated by those classifications, one uses air, the other doesn’ t; it’ s solid rubber. The pneumatic tires for the skid steer are basically like those used in cars and trucks, but on a more industrial level. Pneumatic tires are the industry standard but, like anything else, there is an upside and a downside to them.
Pneumatic Pros and Cons
There are two basic reasons why the air-filled tire is the most popular. One is the price. They are the least expensive type of tire for this machine. Coming in at a very close second place for choosing a pneumatic tire is the comfort. Unlike cars and trucks, the skid steer has no suspension, that is, no springs, struts, air suspension or anything to soften the ride. Using a skid steer day in and day out on rough terrain can prove to be very hard physically on the drivers. So, the air in the pneumatic tires provides a bit of a cushion to take the edge off the jarring ride.
There are two offsetting cons to the pneumatic tire. Punctures and other damage to tires is common on jobsites. Downtime due to changing or repairing a tire could get expensive. Also, the cushion provided by the tires could prove to be a doubleedged sword. Pneumatic tires tend to bounce. Depending on the terrain being worked in, the skid steer could bounce quite a bit, resulting in shifting loads and difficult driving.
Solid Rubber Pros and Cons
One of the advantages to solid rubber tires is obvious: they won’ t blow out. The potential need for constant repairs or replacement would
22 • 800-247-2000 • December 2024