To be able to help you choose the correct Forklift Tire and Compound, we would ask you to consider the following things: type of fuel used; weight of your typical load; length of your standard run; kinds of problems you are having; type of surfaces the forklift runs on; whether your forklift operates over dock plates; percentage of time and number of shifts the forklift is loaded; and the average speed and the top speed of your forklift
There are particular terms which describe different attributes of tires. It can help to know what they mean. The term Durometer means the hardness of forklift tires. The range is typically from 83 to 95, the number would increase that depends on the hardness of the tire. Nearly all of the tires made these days fall within a couple of standard industry classifications.
Softer tires offer the operator a more comfortable ride. They are preferable for applications that require frequent maneuvering because they provide better traction. They are better able to tolerate driving over floor debris. For uses requiring maximum speed and long runs, soft tires are not suggested. They are made of softer compounds that have the tendency to heat up and wear faster compared to hard tires.
For applications that need long runs, multiple shifts and high speed, it is best to have harder tires. They are better than soft tires for maximum loads, and they would last longer and wear better. Hard tires are less forgiving of floor debris and give a less comfortable ride. They tend to be more energy efficient because they provide less resistance.
Universal Compound tires combine advantages and are recommended as all-around tires for general applications.