If you want to maximize the full potential of your skid steer, then it takes more than getting the proper skid steer attachment. It is essential to have the right skid steer tires to get from one place to another. Choosing the right tire impacts the lifespan of the machine, the operator's comfort, maintenance, and cost. The tires are often not prioritized when it comes to any machines, but machines are just useless without them. Having flat tires frequently means cost and lost lime. You could've finished the task, yet you end up removing and fixing those big dirty tires because you failed to get the right tire.
There are two types of tires for your skid steers that you can get in the market; Foam Filled or Solid Tires. When looking for a skid steer tire that will undergo fewer to no flats, foam-filled and solid tires are your best options. The question is, which is the better tire? To decide whether to choose foam-filled or solid skid steer tires, read this guide.
Foam Filled Skid Steer Tires
These foam-filled tires are essentially tires filled with foam. The foam is made from a liquid rubber compound that cures to form a product similar to a solid rubber tire.
PROS
- Less chance of going flat. Filling the tire with foam makes it more durable and less likely to damage it while working. As a result, no downtime, so you get to finish the task in time at the same time, you save money from replacing tires.
- Additional traction for your machine.
CONS
- Heaviness. These tires are heavy and give more unwanted weight to your skid steer, resulting in slowing down your machine when moving.
- Shorter lifespan. Foam tires are tough, but they will eventually experience more tread depending on how intense the job sites are.
- Not completely Flat-proof. Once the tire gets cut, it should be replaced right away. Even if it is new, once it's been cut or damaged, it has changed due to foam spilling, a health and safety protocol.
Solid Skid Steer Tires
Solid tires are flat-proof or airless tires, composed of solely solid rubber and not filled with any air.
PROS
- Flat proof. Solid skid steer tires don't have air or filled with any foam, so they won't go flat.
- Longer wear life. Since these tires don't go flat, it means longer wear life. Significantly longer than that of foam-filled tires.
- Comfort. Solid skid steer tires can offer a smooth, cushioned ride—unlike foam-filled tires, which typically are stiff and rigid.
- Lighter than the foam-filled tires. Although they add additional weight to the drivetrain, they add lesser weight to the machine than foam-filled tires.
- Save time and cost. This requires lesser downtime so you can accomplish your job in time. You won't keep on changing your tires, so it saves you money over time.
CONS
- Price. Solid skid steer tires cost more than foam-filled tires, but not significantly. However, its durability and resistance to flats can eventually result in cost-savings over time as the need to purchase replacement tires is reduced.
Which is better Foam Filled or Solid Skid Steer Tires?
Different job sites require varying operating times and endurance, but it can be difficult to determine which type of tire best suits your machine if you don’t consider what your job is typically like.
Important things to consider when choosing the right tire for your skid steer.
- Are the tires going to last long?
- How are they going to impact the machine during operation?
- What it’s like to maintain them?
Solid skid steer tires are clearly the better choice over foam-filled tires. It is flat-proof, lasts longer, comfortable, and will let you save time and cost over time. Your tires are just as important as your attachments.
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