Narrow tires for orchard and row-crop tractors

Vineyards, orchards and row-crop hoeing require the tractor to fit between rows. Wide tires damage plants, compact the soil and make turns harder, so narrow tires are preferred. But picking a tire just because it is narrow can cause real problems, especially on a 4WD tractor.

Measure the track width first

Besides tire width, the track width (outside to outside of the left and right tires) must fit the row spacing with room to spare. Many tractors can change track width by reversing wheel centres or with adjustable rims; check this before changing tires.

Narrower, same outside diameter

The goal is to reduce width while keeping the outside diameter. If the diameter drops a lot, ground clearance falls, the speedometer reads wrong and the 4WD ratio changes.

The 4WD ratio

When narrowing the rear on a 4WD tractor, the front must match. The front/rear diameter ratio should stay close to a factory pair; see front/rear ratio on 4WD tractors.

How to check on the site

When you select your tractor, a “Narrow tire options” section lists narrower sizes with a rolling circumference close to the factory pair. These are calculated suggestions, not factory approvals; a rim change may be needed. The “Row spacing” tool helps you check which tire width fits your rows.

Tips

• Narrow tires carry less load; check capacity if a front loader is fitted.
• They sink more in soft soil.
• The rim width must suit the tire.

Check the size on your current sidewall and the rim width before switching.