In selecting the right Forklift Tire and Compound, the following things should be taken into account: type of fuel used; average weight of load; standard length of your run; kinds of problems you are having; kind of surfaces the forklift runs on; whether or not your forklift operates over dock plates; percentage of time and number of shifts the forklift is loaded; and the normal speed and the top speed of your forklift
There are certain terms that describe various attributes of tires. It can help to know what they mean. The term Durometer means the hardness of forklift tires. The range is normally from 83 to 95, the number will increase which depends on the hardness of the tire. Most of the tires manufactured nowadays fall within a couple of standard industry classifications.
Softer tires offer the driver a more comfortable ride. They are preferable for applications that require frequent maneuvering since they offer better traction. They are can better tolerate driving over floor debris. For applications requiring long runs and maximum speed, soft tires are not recommended. They are made of softer compounds which tend to heat up and wear more quickly than hard tires.
Harder tires are recommended for use needing long runs, high speeds and multiple shifts. They are better than soft tires for maximum loads, and they will wear better and last longer. Hard tires give a less comfortable ride and are less forgiving of floor debris. They have the tendency to be more energy efficient because they offer less resistance.
For general applications, it is recommended to use Universal Compound tires. These are all-around tires that combine a lot of advantages.