Landscapers operate tire machines, track machines or a combination. Each has its own advantages and setbacks, but did you know how you operate each machine translates to the life of the machine? It’s common knowledge, like Equipment Operation 101, but many landscapers don’t take the time to really understand their machines, which can hurt their budgets in the long run.

Preventing hazardous practices
The most common pitfall to avoid with tires is low tire pressure. The Tire Retread & Repair Information Bureau (TRIB) says tires driven on low pressure cause unnecessary drag, which can reduce the number of miles the machine gets for every gallon used. A machine is also more apt to blow a tire when driven on low pressure.

Load ratings are another potential problem operators tend to overlook. Harry Tripp, assistant manager of the Maxxis Specialty Division, says when you operate a machine with tires not rated for the load it will carry, tires are more likely to heat up or split.
“Load rating is a function of tire pressure,” Tripp says. “Keep the tires in recommended operating range so they can handle the load.”

Don Chambers, product manager and sales for OTR Wheel Engineering, says to check ply ratings when buying tires, and make sure you buy thick enough tires for the job. He says 10-ply is the most common.

Tripp says most loader tires are made for abuse; however, operators should still be careful on jobsites where nails and rebar are present.

“Don’t plow full on into something,” Tripp says.

The easiest way to combat most tire problems is to keep a close eye on tire pressure. Check tire pressure often, and do this with a gauge, not by kicking the tires.

It is especially important to be aware of tire pressure in colder conditions. For every 10-degree drop in temperature, tire pressure can drop one to two pounds per square inch, according to the Rubber Manufacturers Association.