Maximizing Performance with Proper Tire Pressure  

Compare a logging operation of today with those of the not-so-distant past and one thing is obvious—the machines on site have grown considerably in both size and power. While the need to increase operational productivity and efficiency is driving the adoption of larger, more powerful equipment, it is also presenting new challenges. Luckily, there’s a simple step operators can take to overcome these challenges and make the most of their tires (and, subsequently, their machines): check tire air pressure frequently. 

Under-inflation

Under-inflation can lead to a host of problems, causing everything from wheel slippage to reduced tire life. Wheel slippage can result in a gamut of problems for loggers. At its most benign, wheel slipping can tear up the forest floor, increase fuel costs, and hurt a machine’s productivity. At its worst, wheel slippage can cause flats—it jerks the valves from the tubes—causing downtime, grinding logging operations to a halt, and, in the long run, hurting profits.

Additionally, under-inflation allows a tire’s sidewalls to bulge more than intended, which can cause stress cracks in the sidewall. Under-inflation also can result in cracking at the base of the lugs, as the weight of the machine pushes the lugs into the face of the tread—an issue exacerbated by the growing size and power of today’s equipment. Stress cracks—the result of under-inflation—can even appear around the tire’s bead. 

Another negative consequence of under-inflated tires is an over-stressed engine. A good indicator of this is if you see an increase in the amount of black smoke coming out of your machine’s exhaust pipe. Not only is this tough for the machine, but it also burns more fuel.

Over-inflation

Steep slopes, sharp stumps, and puncture-threatening debris all present hazards to forestry tires. And, just like under-inflation, over-inflating the tires on logging equipment can have negative consequences. Over-inflated tires are susceptible to impact damage from stumps and rocks, because they will not flex as much as a properly inflated tire.

Over-inflated tires also bulge in the middle of the tread, creating uneven wear and shortening the life of the tire. Making matters worse, a tire that’s bulging in the middle isn’t putting its full tread on the ground, which leads to a loss of traction. Looking for another reason to avoid over-inflated tires? Simply, over-inflated tires deliver a far less comfortable ride for the operator.

Operator Accountability

The lesson here is that even as we continue to build tires with tougher treads, stronger steel belts, and cutting-edge compounds, operators need to ensure their equipment’s tire pressure is set correctly to maximize the advantages offered by our high-tech tires. A properly inflated tire will keep a machine from wiggling around in uneven terrain, help eliminate sidewall deflection, and help end wheel slippage. It will also help to ensure your tires last as long as possible.

To learn more about our Primex Brand of forestry tires—and learn how they are engineered to handle not just today’s logging equipment, but the logging equipment of the future—contact your dealer or rep today!