Tractor Tires
Gaining Traction On Tractor Tires: Best Value Options
Purchasing and maintaining tractor tires can be somewhat mysterious for a new owner. Questions such as whether the front and rear wheels need the same kind of tires, what the differences in tread mean and when to replace them can all come up. However, an initial understanding of what is needed can give owners the confidence to select the best option for themselves.
The Different Types Of Tractor Tires
Tractors utilize three different types of tires, depending on the tread needed. The agricultural lug tread, or R1, is the most common and is used for general farming. Turf tread or R3 is the second type, similar to tread on a riding lawn mower. The third choice is industrial tread or R4. R4 has lugs similar to those on the agricultural model, but the lugs are more rounded, with more surface area and fewer angles on them and the body are typically wider. The R4 can be regarded as a compromise with less traction than the agricultural lugs, but also less damage to turf. For a tractor used for many different purposes, R4 is a good choice.
The next thing to consider is if the front wheels and back wheels on the tractor may require different tires. Like cars, tractors can have front wheel assist or front wheel drive. With front-wheel assist, the front tires will be smaller versions of the back tires. A tractor with agricultural lugs on the rear and front-wheel assist will also require agricultural lugs on the front. Without front-wheel assist, a ribbed front tire will be used that is different from those used on the rear.
Full time farmers require replacement for their tractors when tread wears down and there is less traction, but for tractors used casually on a small area, the tread may wear very slowly and not need replacing. However, tires are still vulnerable to cracks, dry rot, punctures and sidewall problems, which may cause them to need replacing.
Where To Buy Tractor Tires
Once you have determined which type you need and how many of each, the question of where and what brand to purchase comes up. Tractor outfitting is available at most farming stores and retailers as well as online. As the tires are quite heavy, shipping prices may outweigh the cost benefit from ordering online and some retailers offer free mounting and warranties for those purchased in-store. Be sure to call ahead and ensure the store has the tire you are interested in stocked; many require 7-10 days to ship from the manufacturer.
Carlisle and TBC are two of the largest producers of tractor tires in the United States. Established in 1917, Carlisle manufactures specialized products for the U.S. market and it has expanded into Europe since 2009. TBC Company’s Private Brands Division is the single largest marketer of private brand tires in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. According to a recent survey, independent dealers rated TBC products number one in ten of the categories, including Best Overall Brand. Either of these manufacturers would be a good choice for your tractor tire needs.
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