How to make tractor tires last longer

Tractor tires are expensive and, used well, last for years. Most early wear comes from how the tire is used, not its quality.

1. Check pressure regularly

Pressure has the biggest effect on tire life. Measure at least monthly, cold. See tractor tire pressure.

2. Reduce wheel slip

Spinning tires eat tread. If the tire digs instead of pulling, ballast may be too low, pressure too high or the load too heavy.

3. Take care on asphalt

Deep lugs wear fast on the road, especially at speed and with hard braking. Raise pressure for road trips and keep 4WD disengaged on asphalt unless needed.

4. Keep the front/rear ratio

Mismatched front and rear tires on 4WD scrub against each other and wear quickly.

5. Protect from sun, oil and chemicals

Sunlight, diesel, grease and fertiliser damage rubber. Park in the shade when possible and wash tires after spraying or fertilising.

6. Take the load off in storage

A tractor standing for months can flat-spot its tires. Put it on blocks or move it from time to time.

7. Catch damage early

Have cuts, bulges or cracks in the sidewall checked early; small repairs can save the tire.