Tires are one of the most important components of farm machinery – it’s pretty hard to operate anything on wheels without them. Even with being as important as they are, it is easy to overlook potential problems with tires, and this can lead to decreased efficiency and safety issues.
There is no set way to determine how long tires will last. They might last five years or more, or you might puncture a brand new tire with a nail and have to replace it.
According to the tire company Michelin, the lifespan and mileage of a tire depends of a combination of factors: its design, the driver’s habits, the climate, the road conditions and the care that’s put into the tires.
One thing to consider when checking over your farm vehicle’s tires is the age of the tire. Michelin suggests that once your tires reach the five-year mark, you have them inspected yearly to determine the wear. Once your tires reach 10 years, if you are lucky enough to make it that long on your farm, they should be replaced for safety’s sake even if they still seem usable. You can extend the lifespan of your tires by performing proper maintenance, such as tire rotations, balancing and checking the air pressure, or by taking your vehicle to a shop to have these tasks done.
You can determine whether or not you need new tires by performing a tread test. Tread is essential to good tires. Tires are designed with treads that provide your vehicle with traction. This traction keeps your vehicle driving along the road – even in inclement weather.
Without tread, the elements would literally lift your tires off the road. When you drive through snow or a puddle, the grooves in between the tread blocks of the tires become channels that divert the water or snow away from the tires, allowing the tires to maintain traction in these slick conditions, according to Pep Boys Auto Specialists,
“When the tread gets worn down, the water, snow, and other slippery substances don’t have anywhere to go except directly under your tires severely decreasing your vehicle’s traction. If your tires are nearly bald, traction will be eliminated completely.”
You can check to see if your tires are still at the proper tread levels by doing a penny test: With President Lincoln’s head pointed down, insert a penny into the grooves on your tire tread. If any part of Lincoln’s head is hidden by the tire tread, your tires are fine. Otherwise, your treads are too shallow to be legal and safe, and it’s time to replace your tires.
Another good way to evaluate your tires is to visually check for damage. Michelin recommends you check for cracks, uneven tread wear, foreign objects like nails or rocks, and damaged valve caps monthly – if you notice any of these things, seek out a tire professional and invest in new tires for your rig.
Caring for the tires on your farm vehicles will ensure better efficiency and a better bang for your buck in the long run. Don’t wait to replace them at the end of their lifespan, and always perform proper maintenance to keep things running and driving smoothly on your farm.
