Construction Tires FAQs

How Do I Determine the Right Tire Size for My Construction Equipment?

The correct tire size will be listed in the manual or on the manufacturer’s website if your equipment still has OEM rims.

Should you not have access to a manual or cannot find information from the manufacturer, you can measure the rim’s width and diameter and the clearance in the wheel well to find appropriate tires. Construction tires come in both metric and standard sizes.

Metric tire sizes use this format: 300/75R-18. The first number indicates the tire is 300mm wide. The second number is the aspect ratio, which divides the width by the sidewall height. In this case, the sidewall height is 75% of the tire’s width.

The R indicates the tire is radial rather than bias-ply construction. The last number indicates the tire is intended for a rim that’s 18 inches in diameter.

Standard sizes typically use a two-number format that looks like this: 10x16.5. The first number is the tire width in inches, with this particular tire being 10 inches wide.

The second number is the rim diameter in inches, with this tire being intended for a 16.5-inch rim. There is not usually a ratio number or an overall height for the tire in standard sizing.

If you’re unsure whether a tire will fit inside your fender or wheel well, check all the dimensions listed for the tire on the seller’s or manufacturer's website, then measure your equipment.

Which Types of Construction Tires Are Available?

Construction equipment varies greatly in size, weight, and purpose. Tires for these machines are typically classified with letters that stand for which piece of equipment they’re for. For instance, E tires are for earthmovers, L tires are for loaders, and G tires are for graders.

In addition to letter designations, these tires will also feature numbers to indicate the tread type and hardness of the rubber.

For example, L2 tires have deep, widely spaced lugs for secure traction in loose soil. Higher numbers indicate harder, more durable rubber, with L5 tires having the toughest, most puncture and scrape-resistant rubber compounds.

What’s the Difference Between Bias-Ply and Radial Construction Tires?

Tires can be radial or bias-ply construction. Radial tires use 90-degree plies that run from bead to bead and a series of steel belts directly under the tread. As a result, the tread and sidewall act independently, improving heat distribution, handling, traction, and durability.

Bias-ply tires use diagonally laid plies that form a stiff carcass. These tires typically have a stiffer ride, less predictable handling, less longevity, poorer durability, and build up heat more quickly than radials. However, bias-ply tires are less prone to sidewall punctures and cost less to purchase.

How Long Do Construction Tires Typically Last?

Tire longevity depends on the type of tire and its amount of use. On the low end of longevity, soft rubber tires that see high continuous use might last as little as 600 hours, which typically is about six months. Hard, thick rubber tires used occasionally on smooth surfaces can last as much as 10,000 hours.

Remember that age takes as much of a toll on tires as use does. In general, construction tires will last 3–5 years. Beyond five years, the rubber will start to become brittle and crack, especially if the tires have been left in constant sunlight.

Are There Puncture-Resistant Tires for Construction Machines and Vehicles?

Airless tires and solid rubber tires are effectively puncture-proof. Unlike traditional pneumatic tires that rely on air pressure to maintain shape, they either feature a series of support structures or are entirely made of one solid piece of rubber.

These tires also typically feature higher load capacities and longer lifespans, though ride quality is usually harsher.

What Load Capacity Do Construction Tires Support?

A construction tire’s load index indicates how much weight it can support. Load indexes are three-digit numbers that have a corresponding number of pounds they can handle. A load index of 130 means the tire can support 4,190 pounds.

Construction tires will typically feature load indexes well over 100, which would be a tire that can handle 1,754 pounds and can be as high as 269, which would support 227,370 pounds.

Do Larger Construction Tires Improve Performance?

The larger the tire, the higher the top speed. However, more torque is required to achieve speed. Larger tires can also improve ride quality, assuming they are pneumatic radials, as the taller sidewall offers more of a cushion.

However, larger tires may not fit properly on a stock machine as they can rub in wheel wells around turns and when the suspension is compressed.

Wider tires can improve traction, but this is dependent upon the terrain. Deep-lugged tires intended for use in snow or mud need to be able to reach through and grip the ground underneath, and in such cases, a wider tire may not be desirable. However, wide flotation tires will improve performance in sand.

If you’re not sure whether a set of tires will provide the performance you need, consult a tire expert.

What Is the Recommended Tire Pressure for Construction Tires?

Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for tire pressure. Operating outside a safe range can lead to severe tire damage. Underinflation can ruin the cords or belts inside a tire and will provide poor traction. Overinflation can lead to low grip and even a blowout.

There is no universal tire pressure, as some tires can safely operate at pressures as low as 20 PSI while others are intended for as much as 150 PSI.

How Do I Maintain My Construction Tires?

To maximize the lifespan of your construction tires, follow these tips:

• Do not store the tires in direct sunlight
• Never under or overinflate the tires
• Do not subject your tires to higher loads than they can handle
• Inspect tires for damage before and after use
• Clean the tires thoroughly after use
• Do not expose the tires to harsh chemicals
• Do not use the tires outside their intended operating temperature or climate
• Keep equipment in good shape to avoid unnatural wear patterns
• Use responsible driving habits

Perhaps most important of all, use the appropriate tires for your particular machine. Always choose the correct tread type, rubber hardness, size, and construction (radial or bias-ply) for your given application.