Tips for Choosing Tractor Tires

Your tractor performs some of the most heavy-duty chores on your farm. So, you’ll want to fit it with the right parts to keep it up and going. Tractor tires are those essential parts that help optimize your machine’s performance and maximize fuel efficiency. If you are looking to change your tractor tires and don’t know where to begin, you have come to the right place. At Holder and Sons Equipment in Durham, North Carolina, our experts have rounded up this guide with some important factors that you’ll want to consider while buying tractor tires. Keep reading, and then visit us for more such tips. We’re happy to serve our customers from Raleigh and Greensboro.

Types of Tractor Tires

When you go shopping for tractor tires, you’ll be amazed at the variety of available options. Here are a few of the benefits for each of the different tire types:

• R-1 tires, also known as agricultural tires, are best for tractors used on dry farming land. The high-traction lugs of these tires give them a better grip on dry earth.
• The tread depth of R-2 tires operates well on wet, muddy grounds making them ideal for tractors used on rice paddies.
• R-3 tires, or turf tires as they’re usually known as, are best suited for turf work or loose material like sand and gravel. These tires are smoother, provide a less slippery ride, and can be used as a general, all-purpose solution for your tractor.
• R-4 tires are industrial tires with rough treads for exceptional traction. Due to their huge size, these aren’t usually used on farm tractors.

Radial Vs. Bias-Ply Tires

Radial tires are expensive but offer many benefits, including a smoother ride and a longer tread life when used on harder surfaces. These impact the soil less and effectively run at a lower pressure, which helps improve fuel economy.

Bias-ply tires feature sturdy sidewalls that provide them the durability they need against obstacles. Tractors, which are often used on hilly terrain, are usually fitted with these tires for their superior stability. They are cheaper to maintain and replace when used at a lower speed.

Load Rating

Last but not least, consider the load rating of tractor tires. The load rating describes the maximum load-carrying capacity of a tire at maximum speed and tire pressure (in psi), which is shown as stars where 1-star relates to 18 psi, 2-stars relate to 24 psi, and 3-stars relate to 30 psi (maximum).

The tires need to be able to support the weight of the tractor and its operator, attachments, and materials that will be carried in it. So, knowing the load rating will help you find the right tires for your machine.

We hope this article gives you all the info you need to pick the perfect tractor tires for your rig. If you have any other questions don’t wait to visit the experts at our dealership near Raleigh and Greensboro, NC.