Key Considerations for Choosing the Right Tractor Tire

Choosing the right tire setup for a tractor involves a lot of considerations beyond just picking a tire size or type. The decision affects everything from performance to cost efficiency over time. 

Here's a breakdown of why tire choice is such a complex but crucial decision for farmers or anyone operating heavy machinery:

Key Considerations When Choosing Tires:

Traction: This is one of the most immediate and noticeable effects of your tire choice. The right tires can significantly improve performance in the field, whether you're working in loose soil, wet conditions, or muddy terrain. More aggressive tread patterns or larger tires can provide better grip, but they might come at the cost of ride comfort on roads or wear rate.

Ride Comfort: On the road, or when moving between fields, ride comfort plays a huge role in minimizing operator fatigue. Larger or higher-pressure tires often provide a smoother ride but may not always be ideal for field conditions where low-pressure tires excel.

As Barry Hawn, Director of Off-Road Products for Tirecraft Ontario, notes, “Farmers are in their tractors all day long. When they get on the road they’ve got to get to the next field as quickly as possible. They are going pretty fast, so ride comfort is a huge issue. If they get beat up on the road, at the end of the day they are not happy!”

“The CEAT tires have done a great job with their capability to roll down the road with a nice comfortable ride,” says Hawn who has been in the tire business for 50 years. He has experience with the vast majority of Ag tire brands.

Durability: The cost-per-hour metric you're talking about really comes into play here. A more expensive tire might last longer, reducing the overall wear cost, but it’s tough to predict exactly how long a tire will last in different conditions. This is especially tricky since tire wear is highly dependent on factors like soil type, speed, load, and operating conditions.

Load Capacity: Different tires have different load-bearing capacities, which affects the total weight you can safely carry. Overloading tires leads to premature wear and safety concerns, so understanding the weight distribution and what your tractor is handling is critical.

Cost Per Hour: This is the tricky one because, as you mentioned, you can't fully determine the cost until the tire is worn out. But you can try to estimate it based on tire life expectancy in your conditions, maintenance costs, and how long it will last relative to its acquisition price. Some tires might cost more upfront but will save you money in the long run due to longer wear life or better fuel efficiency.

Fuel Efficiency: The type of tire can affect fuel economy as well. Some tires, particularly those with less rolling resistance, might save you fuel in the long run, especially on hard surfaces like roads.

Balancing Act

In the end, tire choice is about balancing these factors against your operating conditions and business model. The immediate feedback from traction and comfort on the road helps you know right away whether you’ve made a good choice in those areas. But the cost-per-hour and long-term wear-and-tear won’t be clear until later. Keeping track of tire performance over time and understanding how tire wear correlates with cost per hour will help you make better future decisions.

“If you have a tire that performs well in the field and equally well on the road . . . along with long tread wear . . .  you have a winner,” Hawn says. “CEAT is that tire!”

When purchasing farm tires, understanding the terminology and key definitions is crucial to ensuring you select the right tires for your specific needs. Here are some important terms and concepts to familiarize yourself with:

1. Tire Size

Ag tires are usually labeled with a series of numbers that indicate the tire's size and specifications. For example, a tire marked 18.4-34 can be broken down as follows:

• 18.4: The width of the tire in inches (18.4 inches wide).

• 34: The diameter of the tire in inches (34-inch diameter).

There are also metric sizes, such as 420/85R30, where:

• 420: The tire's width in millimeters.

• 85: The aspect ratio (percentage of tire height relative to the width).

• R30: The radial construction (R) and the diameter of the rim (30 inches).

2. Aspect Ratio

The aspect ratio refers to the ratio of the tire's height to its width. For example, in an 18.4-34 tire, the aspect ratio would be approximately 80% (the height is 80% of the width). Tires with lower aspect ratios are generally wider, while those with higher ratios tend to be taller.

3. Radial vs. Bias Ply

• Radial Tires: The plies (layers of fabric or steel) are arranged at a 90-degree angle to the direction of travel, offering better flexibility, improved traction, and more fuel efficiency. Most modern farm tractors use radial tires.

• Bias Ply Tires: The plies are arranged at an angle (usually 45 degrees) to the direction of travel, giving the tire a stiffer, more durable structure. Bia tires can be the right choice for certain applications; your trusted tire dealer can help guide you in deciding whether to go radial or bias.

The CEAT LOADPRO bias tire, for example, is designed with an optimized lug to reduce uneven wear-out and provide better stability. The high denier textile casing, combined with superior quality tread, makes it suitable for backhoe loader and tele-handlers in agro-industrial, lifting and loading applications.

4. Load Index

The load index is a number that represents the maximum load a tire can carry. It's essential for ensuring the tires are rated to handle the weight of the tractor and any implement being towed or carried.

5. Speed Rating

This is a letter that indicates the maximum speed the tire can safely sustain for extended periods. It's typically not a critical factor for farm tractors, but it’s still good to know. For instance, a speed rating of A8 might indicate a maximum speed of around 25 mph.

6. Tire Tread Pattern

The tread design on the tire will significantly affect performance. Common tread patterns for farm tractors include:

• R1 (Agricultural): Deep, lugged tread that provides excellent traction on loose soil, muddy fields, and uneven terrain.

• R1W (Winter): Similar to R1 but designed for improved traction in winter conditions.

• R2 (Rice and Swamp): Very deep lugs designed for wet, swampy conditions.

• R3 (Turf): Shallower, wider lugs that are gentler on grass or turf surfaces, making them ideal for mowing or landscaping.

• R4 (Industrial): More robust, flatter tread designed for working on hard surfaces like roads and pavements. It’s ideal for loaders and other heavy-duty equipment.

7. Tire Pressure

Maintaining the correct tire pressure is crucial for safety, efficiency, and tire longevity. Overinflated or underinflated tires can lead to uneven wear, decreased fuel efficiency, and potentially unsafe handling. Tire pressure varies based on the load and size of the tire, so always consult the manufacturer’s recommendations.

8. Tire Ply Rating

The ply rating refers to the strength of the tire. In older bias ply tires, the ply rating represented the number of plies in the tire, but today it typically refers to the tire’s load-bearing capacity. A higher ply rating indicates a stronger tire capable of handling more weight.

9. Sidewall Markings

In addition to the tire size and type, the sidewall of a tractor tire will often feature additional information, such as:

• Max Load: Maximum weight the tire can carry.

• Max Pressure: The maximum inflation pressure.

• DOT Certification: Indicates the tire meets the U.S. Department of Transportation standards.

10. Tire Construction

Tractor tires can be made with either radial or bias ply construction:

• Radial Tires: Use steel belts beneath the tread for strength and durability. They provide a smoother ride, better traction, and longer wear.

• Bias Ply Tires: Older design, offering strength but with more rigid construction, often leading to less comfort and uneven wear.

Conclusion:

When talking to your local tire dealer, be sure to specify what type of farming work you’ll be doing (e.g., tilling, hauling, irrigation, etc.), and the kind of terrain you’ll encounter (e.g., soft, wet ground, or hard, dry fields). This will help your dealer recommend the best tires for your specific needs, ensuring that you maximize efficiency and get the most value out of your purchase.

What is the average lifespan of an Ag tire? And what steps can a farmer take to prolong it?

The lifespan of agricultural (Ag) tires can vary widely based on factors like the type of tire, usage conditions, maintenance and load. Generally, you can expect:

• Radial Ag tires: 3,000 to 5,000 hours of use
• Bias-ply Ag tires: 2,000 to 3,000 hours of use

The first way to maximize tire life is to buy high-quality tires like CEAT. Pay attention to the materials used in their construction. For instance, the CEAT FLOATMAX RT for Ag trailers, has steel belted construction for resistance to puncture and stubble damage. Steel-belted construction is best for durability and heat dissipation. This tire also incorporates stubble guard compounds to minimize punctures and stubble damage. Many CEAT Ag radials also feature special design features ranging from reinforced sidewalls to bead guards to boost tire life.

The lifespan of an Ag tire is dependent on how it is used and for what purposes. If the tire is used only in the field, it will last much longer before wearing out. Unfortunately, with farms scattered and tractors traveling on the road quite a bit these days, Ag tire life is diminished due to road wear.

Proper maintenance, like regular inspections, inflation checks, and proper storage, can significantly extend tire life, while heavy loads and rough terrains can shorten their lifespan. Always consider the specific tire model and usage patterns for a more accurate estimate . . . your trusted tire dealer can provide good estimates based on the above criteria.

Ag tires have made tremendous gains in longevity in recent years. Ag tire manufacturers like CEAT devote considerable R&D resources to develop chemicals and other ingredients in the tire compound to help with ozone cracking, stubble damage and wear.

Of course. Good practices will add to the life of a tire. Proper inflation relevant to the load is critical. Make sure to have them set at the proper recommended pressure for the load, speed and application. This will prevent unnecessary damage and wear on the lugs and casing of a tire.

If possible, take the weight off the tires by lifting the machine slightly during prolonged periods of storage. This will help to prevent stress at the top of the tire casing and cause flat-spotting.

Washing off the tires from manure, oils or other foreign substances is a good practice. Storing tires out of direct sunlight when possible will also pay off in tire life.

The tread pattern has a huge influence on tire life. For instance, deeper lugs are not always better when it comes to choosing among R-1, R-1W and R-2 tires because tire life is not just a matter of how much rubber you have. If you’re operating primarily in mud, the deeper lugs of the R-1W or R-2 can be a great investment. But if you’re operating primarily in dry or hard soils or (are) doing a lot of roading, deep lugs will scour off more quickly or flex and crack, actually reducing your tire’s life. In those cases, you’d be better off with a shallower R-1 tread.

The most important factor in extending the life of farm tires is minimizing the buildup of heat. Don’t overload your tires. Don’t operate at speeds higher than they are built to handle. And the single best thing you can do for your tires is to operate them at the correct inflation pressure, which minimizes the chance of overheating.

On the road, an overinflated tire will bulge in the middle, reducing contact with the ground in the center of the tread, which is likely to lead to faster, more marked wear on the central part of the tire.

There are different drawbacks to driving with underinflated tires. Excessive casing deflection due to underinflation leads to a rise in internal temperature and the structure of the tire deteriorates progressively, which may lead to a sudden puncture or break in the casing. When a tire overheats, the rubber become more supple and therefore more vulnerable to wear. Ideally, you should adjust inflation pressure based on the load, the application and the type of ground.

Tires are a significant expense for any farm operation. Following these steps will help you get the most value out of your tire investment.

Are you in the market for farm tractor tires? In addition to the type and size of the tire, tread design is very important, as it can greatly affect the performance of the tractor. We will examine 4 different tread designs of tractor tires: R1, R2, R3 and R4, which each serve a different purpose:

Common Tractor Tire Sizes

R1 (Agricultural Traction)

Description: These are standard agricultural tires designed for fieldwork. They have deep treads for better traction in soft soil. R1 tires are the narrowest of the 3 designations that are suitable for off-road use. It is designed to generate maximum adhesion over challenging terrain and offers the most aggressive traction.

Common sizes include 320/70R24, 380/85R24 and 400/75R38.

R1 tires, like the popular CEAT FARMAX R70, can also come in a R1-W designation for extended tire lifespan and enhanced traction. The tread depth of an R-1W tire is at least 20 percent deeper than the same sized R-1 tire.

In addition to deeper tread depth, the FARMAX R70 also features a lower shoulder angle for outstanding traction, rounded shoulders to minimize soil and crop damage, and a wider tread and larger inner volume to decrease soil compaction.

R2 (Agricultural Flotation)

Description: R2 tires have wider treads for reduced soil compaction, ideal for wet or soft ground conditions. R2 tires, which are ideal for Ag trailers and other farm implements, have the widest spacing between lugs, which allows mud to shed easier.

Common sizes include 480/45-17 and 600/55-22.5.

R3 (Turf Tires)

Description: These tires have a smoother tread pattern for minimal ground disturbance, making them great for lawns and sensitive areas. They are designed to operate on yards and grassy terrain without leaving behind tracks. The tread depth of an R3 is approximately half as deep as an R1 tire. It distributes the tractor weight across a wider surface area, allowing the tires to be gentle on lawns to minimize damage.

Common sizes include 23x8.50-12 and 16.9-24.

R4 (Industrial/Construction)

Description: R4 tires are designed for loader and industrial applications, providing good traction and durability on hard surfaces. It is a wide and durable tire, useful in a wide variety of purposes and conditions, and can be used on both hard and soft surfaces. In terms of tread depth, they fall in between R1 and R3 patterns, more aggressive than R3 but less aggressive than an R1.

Common sizes include 15.5-25 and 17.5-24.

Consider these factors to choose the right type of tractor tire for your operation:

Application: Consider what tasks your tractor will perform (fieldwork, landscaping, construction).

Soil Type: Assess the soil conditions you'll encounter (hard, soft, muddy).

Load Requirements: Check the load capacity needed for your tractor.

Tread Pattern: Match the tread design to your work environment for optimal performance.

Selecting the right tractor tires involves understanding the specifications and matching them to your specific needs. If you have more detailed questions, your local Ag tire dealer can be a great resource.

Farming and ranching demand a lot from equipment, and tires are no exception. Given the diverse and challenging conditions—whether it's plowing fields, hauling heavy loads, or navigating rough terrain—having tires that can handle these demands is crucial.

Dependable traction ensures that machinery stays in control and efficient, good roadability is key for arriving at the next field in good shape, and low soil compaction helps preserve soil health and productivity.

The High-quality Ag tires can make a significant difference in both the performance and long-term success of the farm. This is where CEAT Specialty comes in.  The company’s mission is to offer high quality tires at a better value to North America’s farmers and ranchers. By all accounts, the company is accomplishing its mission after seven years in North America.

“As a distributor of farm tires, we look for quality, dependability and diversity in sizes, along with affordability. CEAT covers all our bases,” says Jay Sellers, OTR, Farm & Track Manager, T&W Tires in Oklahoma.

“The CEAT is a very tough tire, well built. My customers have been very happy with the traction, so I’m moving a lot of my stock over to CEAT,” says Kerry Andrew, owner of Integra Tire Mirror in Alberta, Canada.

“The CEAT tires have done a great job with their capability to roll down the road with a nice comfortable ride. Our customers have also been very happy with the CEAT traction in the field,” says Barry Hawn, Director of Off-Road Products, Tirecraft Ontario.

The CEAT FARMAX radial tractor tire line, for example, delivers long tread life, dependable traction in the field, a smooth and steady ride on the road, and low soil compaction.

This is accomplished through a R1-W tread depth for extended tire lifespan, lower shoulder angle for enhanced traction, and rounded shoulders to minimize soil and crop damage.

High technology at an affordable price – that is the CEAT advantage!

When you’re looking to purchase farm tractor tires, it is good to understand the key definitions so you can have a productive, informed discussion with your local tire dealer.

Here are some important definitions you need to know to ensure you make the right choice for your specific needs:

1. Bias Construction — bias ply cords extend diagonally from bead to bead on the tire. Bias tires might be a viable alternative but they do not provide the benefits of radial technology. If you want the best traction possible, improved efficiency, larger footprints, reduced compaction, a better ride, or any of the above, you need to stick with radials. Bias Ag tires do not deliver these improved features due to the carcass design.

In most cases, the bias tire will be less expensive than the radial but not always. Pricing differentials have narrowed in the last few years. It is always good to check both if you are considering bias tires. Another very important factor is the service life of a comparable radial . . . about 30% longer than the bias. However, bias tires can be the right choice for certain applications; your trusted tire dealer can help guide you in deciding whether to go radial or bias.

The CEAT LOADPRO bias tire, for example, is designed with an optimized lug to reduce uneven wear-out and provide better stability. The high denier textile casing, combined with superior quality tread, makes it suitable for backhoe loader and tele-handlers in agro-industrial, lifting and loading applications.

2. Compound — a particular blend of rubber and other raw materials enabling desired performance characteristics of the tire. For instance, the CEAT Torquemax radial tire features a compound that provides durability and ensures resistance to chipping and cuts. Meant for high power tractors, the Torquemax ensures a constant and smooth transfer of torque from the tractor to the ground.

3. Flotation — defines tires with wider section widths than standard tires; designed to improve traction and reduce soil compaction, while enabling the equipment to operate in wet mucky conditions. The newest flotation tire from CEAT Specialty is the FLOATMAX CARGO PLUS, which offers high traction, stubble puncture protection, uniform pressure distribution, and minimal soil/crop damage for tank and trailer applications.

4. IF (increased flexion) and VF (very high flexion) tires — As their full names indicate, IF and VF tires offer increased flexibility. At an equal pressure to standard radials, an IF tire can bear 20% more weight and a VF tire can bear 40% more weight. Alternately, these tires can carry the same load as a standard radial at 20% or 40% lesser pressure. CEAT Torquemax and Spraymax tires come in IF and VF versions.

5. Load Carrying Capacity — amount of weight the tire is certified to carry at a specified air pressure.

6. Load Index — an assigned number equating to the load carrying capacity of the tire.

7. Radial tire — produced with radial cords extending at right angles from bead to bead across the tread that “radiate” from the imaginary center of the wheel, allowing the tread to act independent of the sidewall, resulting in a larger footprint compared to bias tires. If you want the best traction possible, improved efficiency, larger footprints, reduced compaction, a better ride, or any of the above, you need radial tires.

CEAT radial tires offer low compaction, high traction, and high roadability. With tilted lug tips, the FARMAX R65 radial tractor tire, for example, delivers superior operator comfort, with less vibration and noise. A higher angle and lug overlap at the center offers superior roadability.

Look for a future blog post on more Ag tire definitions.

Farmers must make many critical choices to achieve success, and there are so many factors out of their control such as the weather. One important decision totally in their control and critically important to farm profitability is choosing the right farm tractor tires.

In this blog post, we will give you tips and insights from CEAT Specialty Tires to help you choose the right Ag tire for your farm.

Tread Pattern
One very important consideration is the tire tread pattern. The tread pattern needs to match the terrain and soil conditions on

your farm. For instance, if you use your tractor on uneven and rough terrain, an R-1W tire, such as the CEAT TORQUEMAX, with a deep and aggressive tread pattern is perfect. The tread depth of an R-1W tire is at least 20 percent deeper than the same sized R-1 tire; this extra deep tread also comes in handy when dealing with muddy conditions and clay-type soils. For flat and even terrain, a R-1 tire with a less aggressive tread pattern may be more appropriate; your tire dealer can provide guidance on this decision.

Load Capacity
Load capacity is another significant factor to pay attention to when choosing agricultural tires. The tire’s load capacity must be able to support the weight of your equipment and the load you carry. To find the load capacity of a tire, you can refer to the Load Index Chart. The higher the load index number, the greater the load capacity of the tire.

Weather Conditions
Weather conditions also play a significant role when choosing agricultural tires. For instance, if you live in an area with heavy rainfall, mud, or snow, you need tires that can handle the wet and slippery conditions, like the CEAT TORQUEMAX. The CEAT TORQUEMAX features a tilted lug tip that reduces vibration and noise. A higher angle and lug overlap at the center provides better roadability, and the lower angle at shoulder gives superior traction. The rounded shoulders ensure lesser damage to soil and crops. A wider tread and larger inner volume reduce soil compaction, and the R1-W tread depth ensures longevity of the tires. On the other hand, if you live in a dry and hot climate, you need tires that can handle the heat and dry soil.

Durability and Longevity
You need to choose tires that have good durability and longevity. A tire that wears out quickly would mean frequent replacements, which ultimately results in more expenses.

CEAT Specialty Tires has been supplying Ag tires, such as the FARMAX tractor tire line, to North American farmers for five years now – long enough to truly assess their durability and tread wear.

Brent Sisson, Agricultural Tire Specialist for Tirecraft Sarnia in Ontario, Canada, says it takes him about four years to truly evaluate an Ag tire brand. He’s been selling CEAT farm tires for four years now is all in!

“For myself, it’s about a 4-year process before I can feel confident in telling my customers I have confidence in a product,” Sisson notes. “I must see it first-hand with known comparisons. CEAT is one brand that has surpassed my requirements. They provide a high quality, precision product. We have had lots of excellent customer feedback.”

Total cost of ownership — Farm tractor tires are a significant investment, but don’t be penny wise and pound foolish! Buying the cheapest Ag tire could quite likely cost you more in the long term. Likewise, opting for the farm tire with the highest acquisition price is not a guarantee that you are getting good value. CEAT delivers long tread life, good performance in the field and on the road, and durability at an “honest” price . . . or in other words, a low cost of ownership.

According to CEAT Specialty CEO Amit Tolani, “CEAT’s mission is to offer high quality tires at a better value to America’s farmers and ranchers.” By all accounts, the company is accomplishing that mission.

Taking care of your farm tractor tires will make them last longer, and longer lasting tires will certainly reduce your farm operating costs.

This means checking the air pressure often. A tire operating outside of the specified inflation range is a problem waiting to happen. Your tractor’s tire pressure can have a large effect on tread life, not to mention pulling power, traction, ride quality, and soil compaction. It is estimated that a tire under inflated by just 10% below the recommended levels can reduce your tire life by as much as 15%.

The tire pressure supports the structural integrity of the tire.  If the tire is not properly inflated, the tire can become degraded and its life shortened.  Another consequence of an under-inflated tire is bead slip, which occurs when the bead of the tire slips against the tire’s rim — creating a tremendous amount of heat that ultimately destroys the tire.

So how do you get it right? Inflate to the air pressure that is appropriate for the most demanding application for each tire. This critical information is contained in the tire manufacturer’s data book. The load and inflation tables show the speed range, inflation range and the load range for each tire. Your tire dealer can also give valuable guidance.

To maximize the lifespan of your tractor tires, it is important to inspect your tires on a regular basis. Look for abnormalities in the tread pattern and sidewall, such as bulges cracks and tears. Also, if you see signs of irregular wear in the tread, this could mean the tire is not being used properly for the application (most often is under inflated) or there is an issue with the equipment. Either way, detecting irregular wear early will help you correct the problem and obtain optimum tire life.

Properly storing your farm tires over the winter or when they are not in use will extend their life. The first step is to clean them before storage.

Tractor tires typically accumulate brake dust, road grime, and dirt. This gunk can be harmful to the tire if it is allowed to stay on for extended periods of time. Use soap, water and a good tire brush. Then wipe the tires down completely and allow them to air dry.

Do not speed! Farm tractor tires are spending more and more time on the road these days as farmers work tracts that are more spread out. Most farm tires have a maximum speed rating of 25 miles per hour or less. When drivers go faster than their recommended speeds, they generate an excessive amount of heat in the tires. This heat breaks down the rubber in the tires, separating interior liners and belts and reducing the tire’s lifespan.

For a longer lasting and better performing tractor tire, choose a high-quality farm tractor tire from a brand such as CEAT. You can find tractor tires at less cost than CEAT, but you would be hard pressed to find an Ag tire brand that delivers more value than CEAT, as measured in terms of performance versus price. Buying the lowest priced tractor tire will likely cost you more in the long-term.

There are always so many chores on the farm and finite time, but taking the time to properly maintain your tractor tires will greatly maximize their life span and, thereby, reduce your farm operating costs.

As a farmer, have you ever faced challenges with low yields and decreased efficiency due to soil compaction? Are you struggling to reduce the impact of heavy machinery on your farm’s soil?

Are you looking for a solution that can help you increase the productivity of your farm while reducing soil compaction? If so, then this blog post is for you! We will discuss how flotation tires can help you maximize your farm yield and efficiency while reducing soil compaction.

Soil compaction is a major challenge faced by farmers worldwide. It occurs when the weight of heavy machinery compresses the soil, reducing its pore spaces, which leads to decreased water infiltration, root development, and nutrient uptake. This results in stunted crop growth and low yield potential. One of the ways to reduce soil compaction is by fitting farm equipment with flotation tires.

Flotation tires, also known as wide tires, distribute the weight of heavy machinery over a more extensive surface area, reducing its impact on the soil. These tires are designed to float on top of the soil rather than sinking into it, reducing the damage caused by heavy machinery. As a result, soil compaction is reduced, and the yield potential of crops is increased.

CEAT Flotation TX 440 tires are one such solution that can help you achieve maximum yield potential while reducing soil compaction. These tires feature an advanced lug design that provides optimal traction and reduced slippage. The tires’ tread design also ensures that soil damage is minimized even in wet conditions. Additionally, the reinforced shoulder of the Flotation TX440 tires provides increased cut resistance and longer tire life, making them a cost-effective solution for farmers.

Moreover, flotation tires also help in increasing the overall efficiency of farm operations. They ensure that farm machinery can move easily through soft soil conditions while maintaining traction, reducing fuel consumption and wear and tear on the machinery. In turn, this reduces the operational costs for farmers while increasing their productivity.

In addition to their durability and efficiency capabilities, flotation tires are also versatile and can be used with a wide range of farm equipment, including tractors, combines, and other heavy machinery. They are available in various sizes and designs, making it easy to choose the right tire based on your specific needs.

In this blog post, we have discussed the challenges faced by farmers due to soil compaction and how flotation tires can help solve them. We also introduced CEAT Flotation TX 440 tires and how they can help farmers maximize their yield and efficiency while reducing soil compaction.

By choosing flotation tires like the CEAT Floation TX 440, farmers can greatly minimize soil damage, reduce fuel consumption, and increase the productivity of their farms.

As a farmer, you know how crucial it is to choose the right agricultural tire for your farm. The efficiency of your farm operations depends largely on the quality of your tires. With so many options available in the market, choosing the right agricultural tire can be a daunting task. However, with the right knowledge and factors to consider, you can make an informed decision.

In this blog post, we will give you tips and insights from CEAT Specialty Tires to help you choose the right Ag tire for your farm.

Size Matters
The first factor you need to consider when choosing an Ag tire is the size of your equipment. Tires that are too small can cause instability and reduce your farming efficiency, while tires that are too big can affect the performance of your equipment. Check the size indicated by the tire manufacturer on the sidewall of the tire and consult with your tire dealer.

Tread Pattern
The next factor to consider is the tire tread pattern. The tread pattern needs to match the terrain and soil conditions on your farm. For instance, if you use your tractor on uneven and rough terrain, an R-1W tire, such as the CEAT TORQUEMAX, with a deep and aggressive tread pattern is perfect. The tread depth of an R-1W tire is at least 20 percent deeper than the same sized R-1 tire; this extra deep tread also comes in handy when dealing with muddy conditions and clay-type soils. For flat and even terrain, a R-! tire with a less aggressive tread pattern may be more appropriate; again, talk to your tire dealer.

Load Capacity
Load capacity is another significant factor to pay attention to when choosing agricultural tires. The tire’s load capacity must be able to support the weight of your equipment and the load you carry. To find the load capacity of a tire, you can refer to the Load Index Chart. The higher the load index number, the greater the load capacity of the tire.

Weather Conditions
Weather conditions also play a significant role when choosing agricultural tires. For instance, if you live in an area with heavy rainfall, mud, or snow, you need tires that can handle the wet and slippery conditions, like the CEAT TORQUEMAX. The CEAT TORQUEMAX features a tilted lug tip that reduces vibration and noise. A higher angle and lug overlap at the center provides better roadability, and the lower angle at shoulder gives superior traction. The rounded shoulders ensure lesser damage to soil and crops. A wider tread and larger inner volume reduce soil compaction, and the R1-W tread depth ensures longevity of the tires. On the other hand, if you live in a dry and hot climate, you need tires that can handle the heat and dry soil.

Durability and Longevity
Lastly, you need to choose tires that have good durability and longevity. A tire that wears out quickly would mean frequent replacements, which ultimately results in more expenses. Therefore, it’s best to choose high-quality tires, like the CEAT TORQUEMAX, that are built for heavy-duty work and can withstand tough farming conditions.

Conclusion
Choosing the right Ag tire for your farm is an essential decision that can impact your efficiency and profitability. By considering the factors mentioned above, you can make an informed decision and choose the right tire for your equipment. Moreover, choosing high-quality tires like the CEAT TORQUEMAX can help you get the best value for your investment. So, take your time, do your research, and choose the right Ag tire that suits your farm’s needs.

When is a good time to replace your farm tires? Hopefully before you have a tire failure in the field or on the road! The first part of a preventative replacement tire program is:

Complete and thorough assessment of all of the tires in your fleet. Ideally, this should be done when fall harvest is complete, but it is never too late to take this important action.

Next, inspect any damaged areas and make proper repairs if appropriate. If any damaged areas have exposed cords, that tire will fail . . . and probably at a very inconvenient time!

Are the tires wearing evenly? If you experience uneven wear, there may be a mechanical reason that likely can be corrected. Also, air pressures should be recorded because under inflation, as well as over inflation, can cause wear patterns that should be corrected.

Measure tread depth on periodic basis. Measure and record the remaining tread depths on your tires. As you compile tread depth information from year to year you can predict the remaining service life of your tires. If the remaining tread depths are different for tires on the same piece of equipment, a rotation may enable you to extend the service life of the tires.

Are your tires incurring any stubble damage? If you find any exposed cords on a tire, that tire needs to be replaced. Front tractor and combine tires are the most likely to incur damage.  Is it time to replace or possibly rotate tires to extend the service life? Also, do your tires have a field hazard warranty? CEAT farm radials come with a 3-year field hazard warranty in addition to a 7-year manufacturer’s warranty.

There will be failures, and downtime that are disruptive and quite expensive. The goal of any preventative maintenance program is to reduce failures and problems to a minimum.

Farm tractor tires and implement tires are obviously essential components in any farm and ranch operation. A good preventative maintenance program will help you get the most value from your tire investment.

More and more North American farmers and ranchers are learning that CEAT is the right choice for their Ag tire needs. Here’s five reasons why:

Word-of-Mouth – What are farmers and tire dealers saying about specific Ag tire brands? After all this time, there is still no better barometer for evaluating a product or company.

Feedback on CEAT Ag radial and bias-ply tires has been outstanding since CEAT Specialty Tires entered the North American market five years ago.

“If you have a good tire that performs well in the field and equally well on the road, you have a winner,” says longtime Ag tire industry veteran Barry Hawn who serves as Director of Off-Road Products for Tirecraft Ontario. “CEAT is that tire!”

“We have been very pleased with the CEAT tires,” says Georgia peanut farmer Justin Studstill. “Our tractors spend a lot of time on the road, and the CEAT tires provide a smooth steady ride. They don’t get squirrelly like some tires do; very stable even when pulling heavy implements.”

Outstanding
Quality — CEAT continually invests in R&D and its manufacturing plants to deliver the highest quality products to its customers. Of particular note, CEAT is totally committed to following Total Quality Management (TQM) principles. CEAT is the only tire company outside of Japan to receive the prestigious Deming Prize (in 2017) for TQM excellence.

IF/VF Tires — One of the most important developments in farm tires in recent years is IF (increased flexion) and VF (very high flexion) tires. IF tires are designed to carry 20% more load than a standard radial and, alternately, carry the same load as a standard radial at 20% less pressure. VF tires such as the Torquemax VF, are even more advanced with the ability to carry 40% more load or the same load with 40% less pressure. CEAT is delivering IF/VF technology to farms and ranches at a more competitive cost.

Warranty — Farm tractor tires are a significant investment; a good warranty provides peace of mind. CEAT Ag radials are backed with a 7-year manufacturer’s warranty and a 3-year field hazard warranty. The warranty is very rarely needed. Also, does the company have a no hassle warranty? Tire dealers know which Ag tire companies are, and are not, easy to deal with on the warranty process. CEAT is easy to work with.

Total cost of ownership — Farm tractor and implement tires are a significant investment, but don’t be penny wise and pound foolish! Buying the cheapest Ag tire could quite likely cost you more in the long term. Likewise, opting for the farm tire with the highest acquisition price is not a guarantee that you are getting good value. CEAT delivers long tread life, good performance in the field and on the road, and durability at an “honest” price . . . or in other words, a low cost of ownership.

The guiding mission of CEAT Specialty Tires is to offer high quality tires at better value to North America’s farmers and ranchers. Or another way of saying it – “high quality tires at an honest price.”

Both bias-ply and radial tires have their place on the farm and ranch. Radial tires provide many important benefits, such as less soil compaction and more traction, but bias tires have a role in the right applications.

We will explain why radial tires are better for your tractor in most cases, but first definitions:

Bias tires — Tractors have been riding on bias tires ever since farmers left metal wheels for pneumatic tires in the 1930s. Bias tires feature multiple plies of rubber in a diagonal pattern from bead to bead, enabling the tread and sidewall to function as one unit. This results in a stiff and strong sidewall that can fend off damage from stumps and rocks. This stiffness provides excellent stability on hills.

On the downside, the bias tire’s stiff construction can deliver a punishing ride for the operator. When the sidewall of the bias tire flexes, so does the tread, which can lead to a smaller or distorted footprint; this can increase wheel slip, reduce traction, and result in additional compaction in the field.

Radial tires — In the radial-play design, the cord plies are arranged at 90 degrees to the direction of travel, or radially (from the center of the tire). This avoids having the plies rub against each other as the tire flexes, reducing the tire’s rolling friction.

Radial tires are the preferred option for most farm uses today. However, that’s not to say that old-fashioned bias-ply farm tires are obsolete. Because they cost less, bias tires are a great purchase for your secondary or utility tractors. This could be the tractor you use for mowing ditches, cutting and raking hay, and performing chores around cattle lots and other livestock sites.

So which is best for your farm equipment? It begins with answering these questions:

• What is your application?

• What is your needed load carrying capacity?

• Is compaction a concern?

• What is your timeline?

More Traction, Less Compaction

If the application requires high traction, you should target radials like the CEAT FARMAX R70 – same for reducing compaction.

What type of radial depends on the application, load carrying capacity needed and speed required. If high speed (above 25 mph) is required, you need a “D” rated or 40 mph rated tire. If the standard radial does not have an adequate load carrying capacity required for the most demanding application, which is quite often when you are roading equipment at the highest speeds, you should look to the “IF” and “VF” options, such as the CEAT Torquemax.

The “IF,” or increased flexion radials, carry about 20% more load than standard radials at the same inflation pressures. The “VF,” or very high flexion radials, carry about 40% more load than standard radials at the same inflation pressures.

Conversely, these high-tech tires can carry the same loads as standard radials with reduced inflation pressures. If you want to run the lowest inflation pressures you can to help minimize compaction, the “IF” and “VF” options will provide the best opportunities to achieve your objective.

The Bias Option

Bias do not provide the benefits of radial technology. If you want the best traction possible, improved efficiency, larger footprints, reduced compaction, a better ride, or any of the above, you need to go with radials.

In most cases, the bias tire will be less expensive than the radial but not always. Pricing differentials have narrowed in the last few years. It is always good to check both if you are considering bias tires. Another very important factor is the service life of a comparable radial . . . about 30% longer than the bias. Keep in mind that the pricing of the bias tires should be around 30% less than the radials to provide a comparable value or cost per hour of service regardless of additional benefits.

Above all, ask your tire dealer the right questions and request options along with the costs involved as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

Determining the right inflation pressure for your farm tractor tires is extremely important for getting the optimal wear and possibly avoiding dreaded downtime.

Inflation pressure for agricultural tires is very simple. Farmers just need to inflate to the most demanding application. The hard part is determining exactly the most demanding application. Inflating tires to their maximum recommended air pressures is one approach, but it’s not the best way to deliver the maximum performance and benefits from your tires.

What is the right inflation pressure? The answer depends on many different factors, but generally speaking:

Inflate to the air pressure that is appropriate for the most demanding application for each tire. This critical information is contained in the tire manufacturer’s data book. The load and inflation tables show the speed range, the inflation range and the load range for each tire. Your tire dealer can also be a valuable resource.

A tractor tire operating outside of the specified range is a problem waiting to happen – probably sooner rather than later. The farmer may have a tire not suited for his or her application, or the farmer may need to adjust the speed or load to ensure the tire is operating within these boundaries. Damage is inflicted on any tire that operates outside of these limits and will eventually lead to failure.

The heaviest load the tire carries may not be the most demanding application. If that tire operates at higher speeds such as during the roading of one’s equipment, the highest speeds are likely the most demanding aspect, and air pressures will need to be set to account for the increased speed.

Check When Cold

Air pressures taken after the tire has been running will be higher than the “cold” air pressures and can be misleading. If you reduce your pressure after taking a warm inflation pressure, you likely will end up in an under-inflation situation. Under inflation of any tire can result in sidewall deflection that extends beyond the deflection parameters of the sidewall, resulting in tire damage. Overinflation can also be damaging. Maximum “cold” inflation pressures should be adhered to very diligently. The air chamber determines the load each tire can carry. The larger the air chamber, the larger the load it can carry. When you have too small of an air chamber to carry the required load, it is sometimes tempting to over-inflate the tire. Increased air pressures can carry more load but exceeding the manufacturers’ maximum inflation pressure is not endorsed by any manufacturer.

There are some situations where a manufacturer may utilize extended load and inflation tables for certain tires in certain applications in their portfolio. These extended tables are not usually printed in their data books. If you have this information from the manufacturer, it is fine to follow their directions.

All manufacturers have buffer zones for inflation pressures as well as speed ratings. What is comfortable and reasonable for a manufacturer to recommend is up to them. Tire dealers are advised to follow the manufacturer’s specifications.

Farm tractor tires are expensive, down time is critical and tires do not repair themselves. Maintaining proper inflation in your Ag tires will unquestionably save you money and enhance your tire performance.

Choosing a tire setup is more complex than choosing your tractor, says Brent Sisson, Agricultural Tire Specialist for Tirecraft Sarnia in Ontario, Canada.

For some criteria, such as traction in the field and ride on the road, you will know fairly soon whether you made the right decision. Concerning the very important metric of cost per hour, you cannot ascertain that until the tire is worn out. Then you can compare the acquisition price to the number of hours of service.

“For myself, it’s about a 4-year process before I can feel confident in telling my customers I have confidence in a product,” Sisson notes. “I have to see it first hand with known comparisons. Some brands that are positioned as a premium don’t meet my requirements. There is definitely a good size market for good midline tires such as CEAT. I just try to provide the best information I can, and let the customer decide.”

Sisson says, “CEAT is one brand that has surpassed my requirements. They provide a high quality, precision product. We have had lots of excellent customer feedback.”

When choosing a tire for your tractor, Sisson recommends basing your decision on the following:

The size, model and designation of the tire that is optimal for a particular tractor

“The space limitations on the tractor will somewhat dictate what you can use. Choose a taller tire to provide a longer, more efficient contact area and provide the most volume.

Keep in mind the need to retain reasonable clearances. Consider your other requirements for overall width, track width, row width, what type of surface, draft hp, weight and speed you will be using this tractor for. You want to choose a tire that meets or exceeds all of your requirements.

Usually the larger volume tire will give you the best chance at lowering soil impact. All soil types benefit from lower compaction. A good rule of thumb is a field pressure from 8-15 psi for an optimum setup.

In row crop situations you may want to consider multiple tire setups and/or IF/VF options (like the CEAT Torquemax VF) to make the best choice for your situation. Choose a model and size with the traction/wear trade off that suits your needs best.  Another factor farmers  are up against lately is availability. Having a ‘one off’ tire or a low production size is not good if you ruin a tire and there are no replacements.

Consider value

Usually choosing something on the premium side will provide more value . . . in terms of price per hour of use, as well as the ability to maintain excellent traction, wear and ride quality during the life of the tire. A company that offers a better warranty is probably a sign that you won’t need to use that warranty (CEAT Ag radials are backed with a 7-year warranty along with a 3-year field hazard warranty). A brand that is supported by the supplier and the manufacturer is key.  Be aware that some brands don’t offer much warranty and some brands have a warranty but have trouble admitting their product may have deficiencies.

Choosing a tire today based on price can be misleading. There are some higher priced brands I would put to the lower end of premium, if not higher side of mid range. Sometimes the most expensive is not the best. You really need the advice of a trusted expert. Keep in mind money and honesty are rarely found together. Salespeople tend to promote what they have to sell, so it is hard to get a non-biased advisor. Sometimes salespeople may be excited about their offerings, but really don’t have the experience to know if they are a good value. Independent testing results are another way, but these have been misrepresented by omitting or including some of the comparisons with competitor tires.”

The bottom line, according to Sisson, get advice from a trusted Ag tire dealer and then do some homework of your own on the brand he recommends. Finally, keep good records on the hours of service per tire so you can compare the hours with the acquisition price.

When CEAT Specialty Tires first visited Barry Hawn of Tirecraft Ontario, traction in the field was a big discussion point because of its obvious importance to farmers.

That was four years ago. Since then, CEAT has been gaining steady traction with Tirecraft dealers and their farmer customers.

“Traction wise I have not had a single complaint on the CEAT tires,” the longtime tire industry veteran notes. “When CEAT first came to present to us, they explained how well they did against the competition on traction in the field. So far it has worked out exactly as they said.”

A farm tire’s ability to deliver traction is a big factor in its overall performance. A tractor tire providing good traction increases the tractor’s productivity and reduces the tractor’s fuel consumption. It can also minimize slipping and sliding which reduces efficiency, burns more fuel and can tear up a field which has all sorts of negative consequences.

The CEAT FARMAX R70 tractor tire, for example, features a lower angle at the shoulder for superior traction. The key for a farm tractor tire is to deliver the needed traction while not compacting the soil. The FARMAX R70 has rounded shoulders to ensure there’s less damage to the soil and crop. Wider treads with larger inner volumes also reduce soil compaction, which is critical for protecting the farmer’s yield now and in the future.

Lug-to-Void Ratio

The space between a tire’s lugs is also a very important factor in traction. The space allows tractor tires to expel mud, dirt, and water for better traction. Treads with lower lug-to-void ratios work better in the field. Tires with higher lug-to-void ratios work better on hard surfaces like the road. Ideally, the tractor tire, like the CEAT FARMAX tires, delivers the best of both worlds – dependable traction in the field and a smooth ride on the road.

Tread Depth

A discussion of tractor tires would not be complete without a look at the difference between R1 and R-1W tires. R1 tractor tires are excellent tires for everyday farm chores. They perform decently in muddy fields and dirt but are not as capable in the snow.

A R-1W farm tire, like the FARMAX R70, is a more aggressive type of tractor tire in terms of tread; the W (wet) in the name signifies its ability to perform tasks in deep mud or clay. This ability comes from a 25 percent deeper cleat compared to the R1 tire.

The Bottom Line

A very important consideration when selecting a tractor tire is the intended application; is it meant to be used for pulling, plowing, tilling or something else?

Talk to your local tire dealer about CEAT and find out what Tirecraft customers have learned – the combination of CEAT technology and acquisition price is hard to beat. All CEAT Ag radials are backed with a 7-year manufacturer’s warranty and a 3-year field hazard warranty.

There are always so many chores on the farm and finite time, but taking the time to properly maintain your tractor tires is well worth the time and effort.

Priority #1 is keeping your farm tires properly inflated. A tire operating outside of the specified inflation range is a problem waiting to happen. Your tractor’s tire pressure can have a large effect on pulling power, traction, ride quality, and soil compaction. Tread life is also an issue – it is estimated that a tire underinflated by just 10% below the recommended levels can reduce your tire life by as much as 15%.

The tire pressure supports the structural integrity of the tire.  If the tire is not properly inflated, the tire can become degraded.  Uneven wear and poor traction are two side effects of an underinflated tire.  Another consequence of an underinflated tire is bead slip, which occurs when the bead of the tire slips against the tire’s rim — creating a tremendous amount of heat that ultimately destroys the tire.

Overinflated tires can cause an operator to experience discomfort while running the machine — plus the overall tractor performance can falter. An overinflated tire reduces the tire flex, which affects the ride quality.  Over inflation will also increase the wear and tear on the tractor. Tire and tractor manufacturers agree that as little as a 20% over-inflation can reduce your tractor performance by as much as 30%.

Correct tire inflation minimizes soil compaction, gains traction due to having the maximum ground contact, delivers optimum ride quality and extends the life of the tire.

So how do you get it right? Inflate to the air pressure that is appropriate for the most demanding application for each tire. This critical information is contained in the tire manufacturer’s data book. The load and inflation tables show the speed range, inflation range and the load range for each tire.

It’s important to regularly check the tire air pressure. Air pressures should be taken when the tractor tires have not been running and considered to be at a “cold” temperature. Checking tires first thing in the morning is best since they have been sitting overnight. If you reduce your pressure after taking a warm inflation pressure, you likely will end up in an under-inflation situation. Under inflation of any tractor tire can result in sidewall deflection that extends beyond the deflection parameters of the sidewall, resulting in tire damage.

Adjust Inflation for the Load

Each tractor tire has a load capacity as mentioned above. Carrying load that is way above the recommended load for the tractor or implement will cause damage and increase the tread wear rate. This critical information is contained in the tire manufacturer’s data book. Your tire dealer can also be a valuable resource for determining a tire’s load capacity.

Visual checks

In addition to tire inflation, it is important to inspect your tires on a regular basis. Look for abnormalities in the tread pattern and sidewall, such as bulges cracks and tears. Also, if you see signs of irregular wear in the tread, this could mean the tire is not being used properly for the application (most often is under inflated) or there is an issue with the equipment. Either way, detecting irregular wear early will help you correct the problem before too much damage is done.

Tire Storage

Properly storing your farm tires over the winter or when they are not in use will extend their life. The first step is to clean them before storage.

Tractor tires typically accumulate brake dust, road grime, and dirt. This gunk can be harmful to the tire if it is allowed to stay on for extended periods of time. Use soap, water and a good tire brush. Then wipe the tires down completely and allow them to air dry.

Watch the speed

Farm tractor tires are spending more and more time on the road these days as farmers work tracts that are more spread out. Most farm tires have a maximum speed rating of 25 miles per hour or less. When drivers go faster than their recommended speeds, they generate an excessive amount of heat in the tires. This heat breaks down the rubber in the tires, separating interior liners and belts. Not a good thing as you can imagine!

Leading global tire manufacturers like CEAT Specialty spend tens of millions of dollars to develop tractor tires that provide exceptional levels of traction, durability, roadability and less soil compaction that were unattainable just a few years ago.

The CEAT Torquemax VF, for example, keeps your tractor running smooth regardless of conditions on field on and off the field. It features a tilted lug tip that reduces vibration and noise. A higher angle and lug overlap at the center provides better roadability, and the lower angle at shoulder gives superior traction. The rounded shoulders ensure lesser damage to soil and crops. A wider tread and larger inner volume reduce soil compaction, and the R1-W tread depth ensures longevity of the tires.

With the VF (very high flexion) technology, the Torquemax has the ability to carry 40% more load or the same load with 40% less pressure. By utilizing the lower inflation pressures, a farmer can increase the tires’ ground contact area, helping with traction and fuel economy . . . and reduce the harmful downward forces that cause soil compaction.

Farmers are always prioritizing their many tasks. Make tire maintenance one of your “must do’s” and you will receive substantial rewards.

Are you in the market for farm tractor tires? Here are the top 5 features to look for:

• Total cost of ownership – At the end of the day, this is what matters the most– which tractor tire gives you the longest life and best service at the optimum acquisition price? Until you have experience with a new tire brand, follow your tire dealer’s advice based on his experience. The objective is to compare the acquisition price with the tread wear and overall performance achieved to determine the total cost of ownership (TCO). CEAT farm tractor tires, such as the Torquemax VF, are gaining rapid acceptance from North American farmers because they deliver a superior TCO.
  
• Radial tires have many advantages — Bias tires might be the right option but they do not provide the benefits of radial technology. If you want the best traction, larger footprints, reduced compaction, a better ride, or any of the above, you need to go with radials. Bias farm tractor tires do not deliver these improved features due to the carcass design, but they may be the right choice depending on the equipment and usage.
• R-1W tread depth — R1 tractor tires are great for everyday farm chores, performing decently in muddy fields and dirt –but they are not as capable in the snow or deep mud and clay. The R-1W farm tire, like the FARMAX R70, has more aggressive tread; the W (wet) in the name signifies its ability to perform tasks in deep mud or clay and snow. This ability comes from a 25 percent deeper cleat compared to the R1 tire.
• Warranty – Does the tire come with a warranty? Farm tractor tires are a significant investment for any farm or ranch, so a good warranty provides peace of mind. CEAT Ag radials are backed with a 7-year manufacturer’s warranty and a 3-year field hazard warranty which many Ag tire brands do not provide. The CEAT warranty is very rarely needed but, again, good peace of mind.
• IF/VF — One of the most important developments in farm tires in recent years is IF (increased flexion) and VF (very high flexion) tires. IF tires are designed to carry 20% more load than a standard radial and, alternately, carry the same load as a standard radial at 20% less pressure. VF tires are even more advanced with the ability to carry 40% more load or the same load with 40% less pressure. Structural and compound innovations in IF/VF tires allow the sidewalls to flex more during operation. By utilizing the lower inflation pressures made possible by IF/VF tires, a farmer can increase the tires’ ground contact area, helping with traction and fuel economy, and also reduce the harmful downward forces that cause soil compaction.

CEAT farm tractor tires deliver the latest technologies, such as IF/VF, to farms and ranches of all sizes. Talk to your local tire dealer about CEAT and find out why so many farmers are going with the CEAT brand.

Tractor tires are a significant investment for farmers and ranchers. Follow these steps to ensure you get maximum life and performance from your investment.

Inflate properly– Nothing is more important than keeping your farm tires properly inflated. A tire operating outside of the specified inflation range is a problem waiting to happen – probably sooner rather than later. Damage is inflicted on any tractor tire that is not properly inflated. Inflate to the air pressure that is appropriate for the most demanding application for each tire. This critical information is contained in the tire manufacturer’s data book. The load and inflation tables show the speed range, inflation range and the load range for each tire.

Check air pressure — It’s important to regularly check the tire air pressure. Air pressures should be taken when the tractor tires have not been running and considered to be at a “cold” temperature. Checking tires first thing in the morning is best since they have been sitting overnight. If you reduce your pressure after taking a warm inflation pressure, you likely will end up in an under-inflation situation. Under inflation of any tractor tire can result in sidewall deflection that extends beyond the deflection parameters of the sidewall, resulting in tire damage.

Don’t overload tractor or implement– Each tractor tire has a load capacity as mentioned above. Carrying load that is way above the recommended load for the tractor or implement will cause damage and increase the tread wear rate. This critical information is contained in the tire manufacturer’s data book. Your tire dealer can also be a valuable resource for determining a tire’s load capacity.

Visually inspect tractor tires– Look for abnormalities in the tread pattern and sidewall, such as bulges cracks and tears. Also, if you see signs of irregular wear in the tread, this could mean the tire is not being used properly for the application (most often is under inflated) or there is an issue with the equipment. Either way, detecting irregular wear early will help you correct the problem before too much damage is done.

Tire storage — Properly storing your farm tires over the winter or when they are not in use will extend their life. The first step is to clean them before storage.

Tractor tires typically accumulate brake dust, road grime, and dirt. This gunk can be harmful to the tire if it is allowed to stay on for extended periods of time. Use soap, water and a good tire brush. Then wipe the tires down completely and allow them to air dry.

Store them upright in a cool, dry place — Store tractor tires in an upright position, not lying down flat or stacked if possible. Make sure to keep them in a cool, dry place away from the sun

Watch the speed – Farm tractor tires are spending more and more time on the road these days as farmers work tracts that are more spread out. Most farm tires have a maximum speed rating of 25 miles per hour or less. When drivers go faster than their recommended speeds, they generate an excessive amount of heat in the tires. This heat breaks down the rubber in the tires, separating interior liners and belts. Not a good thing as you can imagine!

Leading global tire manufacturers like CEAT Specialty spend tens of millions of dollars to develop tractor tires that provide exceptional levels of traction, durability, roadability and less soil compaction that were unattainable just a few years ago.

The CEAT Torquemax VF, for example, keeps your tractor running smooth regardless of conditions on field on and off the field. It features a tilted lug tip that reduces vibration and noise. A higher angle and lug overlap at the center provides better roadability, and the lower angle at shoulder gives superior traction. The rounded shoulders ensure lesser damage to soil and crops. A wider tread and larger inner volume reduce soil compaction, and the R1-W tread depth ensures longevity of the tires.

With the VF (very high flexion) technology, the Torquemax has the ability to carry 40% more load or the same load with 40% less pressure. By utilizing the lower inflation pressures, a farmer can increase the tires’ ground contact area, helping with traction and fuel economy . . . and reduce the harmful downward forces that cause soil compaction.

Farmers are always prioritizing their many tasks. There are just enough hours in the day right? Taking the time to properly maintain your tractor tires, however, will pay handsome dividends.

Farm tractor tires represent a significant portion of a farm’s operating budget. Be aware of these five secrets before purchasing your next tractor tires:

• The farm tractor tire’s inflation is okay as long as it does not have a big bulge. You cannot confirm a radial tire’s proper air inflation through a visual check. This is a myth from the bias tire days when any kind of sidewall bulge meant the bias tire was low on air. Radial tires must have a certain bulge in order for the tire to deliver optimum traction and the overall performance intended by the tire manufacturer. You cannot confirm a radial tire’s proper air inflation through a visual check. Consult with your tractor/tire dealer and check the tire manufacturer’s databook and load range table. The radial’s superior performance is realized only with proper inflation.
• You get what you pay for in farm tractor tires. When you buy the most expensive farm tractor tire, you will most likely get a good quality tire. But you must compare the acquisition price with the tread wear and overall performance achieved to ascertain the true total cost of ownership (TC0) of that tire. This is the only meaningful metric on tire value. For instance, if a particular brand tire costs half the price of the most expensive brand but delivers 80% of the operating hours and comparable performance, then the less expensive tire is delivering a better TCO by 30%. CEAT farm tractor tires, such as the FARMAX R80, are gaining rapid acceptance from North American farmers because they deliver a superior TCO. CEAT farm tractor tires deliver the latest tire technologies at a more affordable price.
• The dealer (tractor or tire dealer) doesn’t always set the tires to the proper inflation when the tractor or tires are delivered to the farmer. New farm tractor tires are normally inflated to 30 psi when shipped from the factory to minimize bouncing on the trailer. Dealers may overlook reducing the tire pressures or may not reduce the pressure to the proper level for the load on the axle. Also, tire changers often inflate the farm tractor tire to 35 psi to set the tire beads on the rim. The farmer must take the initiative to ensure that the pressure matches the load on the axle by double checking with the dealer and consulting the tire databook and load range tables
• Bias tires might be the right option but they do not provide the benefits of radial technology. If you want the best traction, larger footprints, reduced compaction, a better ride, or any of the above, you need to go with radials. Bias farm tractor tires do not deliver these improved features due to the carcass design.
• R1 tractor tires are great for everyday farm chores, performing decently in muddy fields and dirt –but they are not as capable in the snow or deep mud and clay. The R-1W farm tire, like the FARMAX R70, has more aggressive tread; the W (wet) in the name signifies its ability to perform tasks in deep mud or clay and snow. This ability comes from a 25 percent deeper cleat compared to the R1 tire.

CEAT farm tractor tires deliver the latest technologies, such as IF/VF, to farms and ranches of all sizes. Talk to your local tire dealer about CEAT and find out why so many farmers are going with the CEAT brand.

Farm tractor tires are a major investment for farmers and ranchers. With input costs such as fertilizer increasing exponentially, it’s even more important than ever for farmers to make the right choice on tractor tires.

Should you consider CEAT Specialty for your tractor tires? Here’s what our customers have to say:

“The traction provided by the CEAT tires is as good as any of the major Ag tire brands, and the acquisition price is very favorable compared to the so-called name brands,” according to Georgia peanut farmer Justin Studstill.

“The CEAT tires are very durable. We’re anticipating 10,000 hours on a current set. In the past, with other radial tires I’ve run on, we’ve gotten about half that life,” says Ohio dairy farmer Jarad Sage.

“When we first started carrying CEAT, with every pair sold I did a follow up. What are your thoughts on the looks of the tires, how did they mount, how did they ride? Not a single negative word. All positives. No longer is there a need to follow up,” notes Barry Hawn, Director of Off-Road Products for Tirecraft.

CEAT Specialty Tires spends millions to develop tires that provide dependable traction in the field, smooth ride on the road and long tread wear.

The first task at CEAT is understanding the needs of farmers and ranchers, the terrain they work on, and their type of equipment. Driven by the core technologies of tire design, engineering, material development and process engineering, the company delivers tires that increase the efficiency of the vehicles and the people they work with, while being gentle enough to protect the crops.

One of the most important developments in farm tires in recent years is IF (increased flexion) and VF (very high flexion) tires. IF tires are designed to carry 20% more load than a standard radial and, alternately, carry the same load as a standard radial at 20% less pressure. VF tires are even more advanced with the ability to carry 40% more load or the same load with 40% less pressure.

Structural and compound innovations in IF/VF tires allow the sidewalls to flex more during operation. By utilizing the lower inflation pressures made possible by IF/VF tires, a farmer can increase the tires’ ground contact area, helping with traction and fuel economy . . . and reduce the harmful downward forces that cause soil compaction.

The CEAT TORQUEMAX, designed for high power tractors, is available in both VF and IF versions. This high-tech farm tractor tire features many other innovations such as:

• a stepped lug design that provides better grip and traction.
• a center tie bar gives the TORQUEMAX superior roadability, which is increasingly important these days as farm equipment spends more time on the road traveling from one tract of land to another.
• rounded shoulders which mean less soil and crop damage.
• a tilted lug tip that reduces vibration and noise.
• a wider tread and larger inner volume reduce soil compaction, and the R1-W tread depth ensures long service life.

Technology is one thing . . . acquisition price is another. The best farm tire is one that delivers the lowest total cost of ownership, factoring in acquisition price, tread life and overall performance. If you purchase the least expensive tire and it fails in no time, your cost of ownership is high. Likewise, the most expensive tire may not deliver the tread life commiserate with the price.

With CEAT, you can count on a farm tire developed through advanced R&D and produced through stringent total quality management (TQM) manufacturing processes . . . at a price that does not break the bank.

A farm tractor tire that is right for the application and delivers on traction, roadability, less soil compaction and tread wear can greatly enhance farm productivity. Here’s 12 tractor tire facts that farmers need to know:

• Tractors vary by HP wherein a higher HP tractor is used when the farm sizes are bigger and the load to be hauled is more. Tractor tires are designed keeping these varied requirements in mind.
• Tractor tires come in multiple sizes. Depending on the tractor HP, there is a specific tractor tire size that is recommended.
• While tractor tires come in radial and bias technologies, the specific application, load-carrying capacity, and compaction and traction needs are the main deciding factors on whether radial or bias tires are better suited.
• Bias tires might be the right option but they do not provide the benefits of radial technology. If you want the best traction possible, improved efficiency, larger footprints, reduced compaction, a better ride, or any of the above, you need to stick with radials. Bias farm tractor tires do not deliver these improved features due to the carcass design.
• The angle of the farm tire’s lugs is a big factor in dictating traction. The CEAT FARMAX R85 features a higher angle lug and lug overlap at the center of the tread for superior roadability.
• A lower angle at the shoulder, an important feature of CEAT FARMAX tractor tires, delivers superior traction in the field.
• The space between a tire’s lugs is also a very important factor in traction. The space allows tractor tires to expel mud, dirt, and water for better traction. Treads with lower lug-to-void ratios work better in the field. Tires with higher lug-to-void ratios work better on hard surfaces like the road. Ideally, the tractor tire, like the CEAT FARMAX line, delivers the best of both worlds – dependable traction in the field and a smooth ride on the road.
• R1 tractor tires are excellent tires for everyday farm chores. They perform decently in muddy fields and dirt but are not as capable in the snow.
• The R-1W farm tire, like the FARMAX R70, is a more aggressive type of tractor tire in terms of tread; the W (wet) in the name signifies its ability to perform tasks in deep mud or clay. This ability comes from a 25 percent deeper cleat compared to the R1 tire.
• One of the most important developments in farm tires in recent years is IF (increased flexion) and VF (very high flexion) tires. IF tires are designed to carry 20% more load than a standard radial and, alternately, carry the same load as a standard radial at 20% less pressure. VF tires are even more advanced with the ability to carry 40% more load or the same load with 40% less pressure. Structural and compound innovations in IF/VF tires allow the sidewalls to flex more during operation. By utilizing the lower inflation pressures made possible by IF/VF tires, a farmer can increase the tires’ ground contact area, helping with traction and fuel economy, and also reduce the harmful downward forces that cause soil compaction.
• Nothing is more important for long tire life than keeping your farm tires properly inflated. A tire operating outside of the specified inflation range is a problem waiting to happen – probably sooner rather than later.
• Each tractor tire has a load capacity. Carrying load that is way above the recommended load for the tractor or implement will cause damage and increase the tread wear rate. This critical information is contained in the tire manufacturer’s data book. Your tire dealer can also be a valuable resource for determining a tire’s load capacity.
  

With input costs such as fertilizer going through the roof, it makes more sense than ever for farmers to get as much wear and performance out of their farm tractor tires as possible. Every penny saved these days is welcomed news, and tractor and implement tires represent a significant portion of the farm’s operating budget.

Here are 3 tips to properly maintain your tractor tires.

• Inflate properly– Nothing is more important than keeping your farm tires properly inflated. A tire operating outside of the specified inflation range is a problem waiting to happen – probably sooner rather than later. Damage is inflicted on any tractor tire that is not properly inflated. Inflate to the air pressure that is appropriate for the most demanding application for each tire. This critical information is contained in the tire manufacturer’s data book. The load and inflation tables show the speed range, inflation range and the load range for each tire. It’s also important to regularly check the tire air pressure. Air pressures should be taken when the tractor tires have not been running and considered to be at a “cold” temperature. Checking tires first thing in the morning is best since they have been sitting overnight. If you reduce your pressure after taking a warm inflation pressure, you likely will end up in an under-inflation situation. Under inflation of any tractor tire can result in sidewall deflection that extends beyond the deflection parameters of the sidewall, resulting in tire damage.
• Don’t overload tractor or implement– Each tractor tire has a load capacity as mentioned above. Carrying load that is way above the recommended load for the tractor or implement will cause damage and increase the tread wear rate. This critical information is contained in the tire manufacturer’s data book. Your tire dealer can also be a valuable resource for determining a tire’s load capacity.
• Visually inspect tractor tires– Look for abnormalities in the tread pattern and sidewall, such as bulges cracks and tears. Also, if you see signs of irregular wear in the tread, this could mean the tire is not being used properly for the application (most often is under inflated) or there is an issue with the equipment. Either way, detecting irregular wear early will help you correct the problem before too much damage is done.

Today’s farm tractor tires, such as the CEAT Torquemax VF, are engineering marvels that provide levels of traction, durability, roadability and less soil compaction that were unattainable just a few years ago . . . but only if they are properly maintained!

Farm tractor tires are a major investment for farmers and ranchers. The stakes are even higher these days with input costs, such as fertilizer, increasing exponentially! You most certainly want to avoid making the wrong decision on the type of farm tractor tire or brand you purchase.

Here’s some key questions to begin with:

• What is your application?
• What is your needed load carrying capacity?
• Is compaction a concern?
• What is your timeline?

Here are 5 common mistakes when choosing tractor tires:

• Buying on price alone – The goal is to achieve the optimum equation of price versus performance. How much did you pay for the farm tractor tire? How many hours of service did it provide? Did it die prematurely from failure? Did it deliver dependable traction, good roadability, minimal soil compaction, etc., during its lifespan? A key metric is cost per hour, which takes into account the acquisition price compared to the total hours of service.
• Warranty or not – Farm tires are expensive so find out if the tire is covered by a manufacturer’s warranty. CEAT Ag radials are backed with a 7-year limited workmanship warranty, plus a field hazard warranty. The CEAT warranty is very rarely needed, but it gives peace of mind to CEAT customers.
• Going with bias tires over radial or vice versa – It all depends on how the equipment is being used. Bias tires might be an alternative but they do not provide the benefits of radial technology. If you want the best traction possible, improved efficiency, larger footprints, reduced compaction, a better ride, or any of the above, you need to go with radials. Bias Ag tires do not deliver these improved features due to the carcass design. In most cases, the bias tire will be less expensive than the radial but not always. Pricing differentials have narrowed in the last few years. It is always good to check both if you are considering bias tires. Another very important factor is the service life of a comparable radial . . . about 30% longer than the bias. If your tractor or implement are used less often and in less demanding conditions, the bias design might be the right choice though.
• Not consulting your trusted local tire dealer – Tire dealers who specialize in Ag tires are very motivated to get you in the right tire. Repeat customers are their lifeblood and word-of-mouth, whether good or bad, in farming communities is absolutely critical for tire dealers. Ask your tire dealer the right questions and request options along with the costs involved as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each option. The “best” option should not depend on what your tire dealer has in the warehouse.
• Trying to “shoehorn” a tire onto your equipment that was not engineered for that type of equipment and your application — For instance, is the tire specially designed for sprayers or a tractor tire that happens to come in a size for your sprayer? A tire purpose-built for sprayers will deliver better performance. Go with the manufacturer’s intent – use sprayer tires for sprayers (or whatever the equipment is) and tractor tires for tractors.

A good example is the CEAT Spraymax VF which is specially designed for self-propelled sprayers. It is engineered to carry 40% more load than a standard radial. Alternately, it carries the same load as a standard radial at 40% lesser pressure. The VF technology is very important for sprayer tires because it facilitates the higher load carrying capacity and decreases soil compaction.

In conclusion, carefully consider how your tractors and implements are being used in terms of frequency, load carrying needs, soil compaction concerns and the type of soil. Get the advice of a trusted tire dealer who specializes in farm tires. If the tractor is just doing jobs in the yard, it may not need as much tread depth and technical sophistication as one pulling heavy implements in the field. But if good tread depth is needed for the job, a good dealer won’t let you go into the field with one arm tied behind his back.

The tire dealer also has a very good idea on which tire brands are working best for his customers in terms of tread wear, resisting stubble damage, traction in the field, roadability and the other key farm tire attributes. CEAT tractor and implement tires, both radial and bias, have grown dramatically in market share since entering the North American market five years ago because CEAT dealers are getting great feedback from farmers and recommending CEAT to their other customers.

Tractor tires and sprayer tires are sometimes used interchangeably, but you need to be aware of the differences.

Here are the top 5 tips for choosing the right sprayer tires:

• Is it a tire specially designed for sprayers or a tractor tire that happens to come in a size for your sprayer? A tire purpose-built for sprayers will deliver better performance. Go with the manufacturer’s intent – use sprayer tires for sprayers and tractor tires for tractors.
• Does the sprayer tire come with VF (very high flexion) or IF (increased flexion) technology? VF or IF technology facilitates a higher load carrying capacity — self-propelled sprayers can carry quite a heavy load of liquid.
• What is the lug to void ratio in the tread pattern? Traction is generally not as much of a concern for sprayers as it is for tractors. A smooth, stable ride on the road is a big concern for sprayers however. That is why more lugs and less void (the gap in the tread) is best for sprayer tires.
• How is the sprayer being used? Self-propelled sprayers can be retrofitted with different tire sizes according to how they are being used at the time. For instance, wider tires can be used for flotation and less compaction before planting. The sprayer can be switched to more narrow tires to work between the rows once the crops have been planted.
• For pull -behind sprayers, the tanks are smaller and carry less fluid, so tires are not as critical as on self-propelled sprayers. The sprayer will travel as fast as the tractor pulling it, and there is no torque applied to the tires. These free rolling tires still must be rated heavy enough to carry the load, however.

Most of today’s self-propelled sprayers are heavy because they carry a lot of liquid weight, and they can run up to 40 miles per hour.

They are driven on the highway to get to the fields, so tires built especially for these sprayers must be able to handle the speeds, loads and the highway. A self-propelled sprayer is quite tall to clear the growing crops, so a stable ride with less tread squirm on the road is very reassuring for the operator.

The CEAT Spraymax VF is specially designed for self-propelled sprayers. It is engineered to carry 40% more load than a standard radial. Alternately, it carries the same load as a standard radial at 40% lesser pressure. The VF technology is very important for sprayer tires because it facilitates the higher load carrying capacity and decreases soil compaction.

Especially as the weights of self-propelled sprayers increase, IF/VF technology becomes even more critical. These technologies allow a tire to increase carrying capacity at lower inflation pressures, affecting the contact patch and compaction levels. Despite the narrow sizes of a sprayer tire, the flexion of IF/VF tires creates a fuller tread profile, promoting traction and reduced soil compaction benefits.

The CEAT Spraymax VF has a stepped lug design that provides better grip and traction in the field. A center tie bar gives this tire superior roadability. Its rounded shoulders mean less soil and crop damage. This highly advanced CEAT tire has more lugs and less void ratio for more stability and less squirm on the highway.

In the future, the sprayer tire market may be further impacted by hybrid tread patterns that lower the void ratio and deliver stability with on-/off-road tread patterns.

You can count on CEAT Specialty Tires to be at the forefront of technology for purpose-built sprayer tires and farm tractor tires.

The purchase of tractor tires is one of the most important decisions farmers and ranchers will make. A tractor tire that is right for the application and delivers on key benefits such as traction, roadability and tread wear can greatly enhance farm productivity and lower operating costs.

Key facts about farm tractor tires:

• Tractors vary by HP wherein a higher HP tractor is used when the farm sizes are bigger and the load to be hauled is more. Tractor tires are designed keeping these varied requirements in mind.
• Tractor tires come in multiple sizes. Depending on the tractor HP, there is a specific tractor tire size that is recommended.
• While tractor tires come in radial and bias technologies, the specific application, load-carrying capacity, and compaction and traction needs are the main deciding factors on whether radial or bias tires are better suited.

CEAT offers a complete range of tractor tires. No matter the requirements, farmers and ranchers will find a CEAT tractor tire that

is the perfect fit. CEAT radial tires offer low compaction, high traction, and high roadability. With tilted lug tips, the FARMAX R65 radial tractor tire, for example, delivers superior operator comfort, with less vibration and noise. A higher angle and lug overlap at the center offers superior roadability. While a lower angle at the shoulder imparts superior traction.

The company also offers an IF/VF radial tractor tire range that offers 20%/40% more load carrying capacity compared to standard radials. The CEAT Torquemax for high-power tractors is available in IF and VF versions. It ensures constant and smooth transfer of torque from the tractor to the ground. With lower compaction, higher traction and better roadability, CEAT TORQUEMAX keeps the tractor running smooth regardless of conditions in the field and on the road.

CEAT is a preferred supplier of tractor tires to major global tractor manufacturers including John Deere, AGCO, Mahindra and Mahindra, CNH. CEAT tractor tires are built to the manufacturer’s specifications and designed to offer high mileage and durability. CEAT tractor tires come in multiple tread patterns keeping in mind varied user requirements. The tractor tire compound provides durability and ensures resistance to chipping and cuts. CEAT tractor tires come in different sizes to fit a wide range of farm equipment. CEAT tires offer versatility and durability for farming as well as haulage.

A farm tire’s ability to deliver traction is a big factor in its overall performance.

A tractor tire providing good traction increases the tractor’s productivity and reduces the tractor’s fuel consumption. It can also minimize slipping and sliding which reduces efficiency, burns more fuel and can tear up a field which has all sorts of negative consequences.

No single part of a tractor tire is responsible for delivering traction, but the tread pattern and lug depth play a major role in determining how much traction a tractor tire delivers.

Tire Lugs

The angle of the farm tire’s lugs is certainly a big factor in dictating traction. CEAT FARMAX radial tractor tires, such as the

CEAT FARMAX R85, feature a higher angle lug and lug overlap at the center of the tread for superior roadability, which is increasingly important as farmers such as Justin Studstill in Georgia work many fields separated by miles of roadway. A lower angle at the shoulder of CEAT FARMAX tractor tires delivers superior traction in the field.

In addition to dependable traction in the field and a smooth ride on the road, CEAT FARMAX tractor tires have a wider tread with larger inner volume which helps reduce soil compaction.

In addition to the higher angle and lug overlap at the center and lower angle at the shoulder, the CEAT TORQUEMAX features a tilted lug tip that reduces vibration and noise. The rounded shoulders of this tractor tire for high-powered tractors ensure lesser damage to soil and crops.

Lug-to-Void Ratio

The space between a tire’s lugs is also a very important factor in traction. The space allows tractor tires to expel mud, dirt, and water for better traction. Treads with lower lug-to-void ratios work better in the field. Tires with higher lug-to-void ratios work better on hard surfaces like the road. Ideally, the tractor tire, like the CEAT FARMAX line, delivers the best of both worlds – dependable traction in the field and a smooth ride on the road.

Tread Depth

A discussion of tractor tire tread patterns would not be complete without a look at the difference between R1 and R-1W tires.

R1 tractor tires are excellent tires for everyday farm chores. They perform decently in muddy fields and dirt but are not as capable in the snow.

The R-1W farm tire, like the FARMAX R70, is a more aggressive type of tractor tire in terms of tread; the W (wet) in the name signifies its ability to perform tasks in deep mud or clay. This ability comes from a 25 percent deeper cleat compared to the R1 tire.

The Bottom Line

A very important consideration when selecting the tread pattern of the tractor tire is the intended application; is it meant to be used for pulling, plowing, tilling or something else?

Doing some of your own research and getting advice from your local Ag tire dealer, you can make an informed decision on a very importance purchase for your farm.

With tire costs a significant portion of a farm operating budget and downtime a major deterrent to operating efficiency, developing a relationship with a good tire dealer is paramount for farmers and ranchers.

Here’s three key things to look for in your tire dealer:

Knowledge

One key attribute is knowledge. The dealer must be knowledgeable about the farm tires he and his team sells . . . how they

perform in certain applications and how they deliver on key attributes such as tread wear and roadability.

This may seem like a no brainer but some dealers carry mostly passenger and/or medium/heavy truck tires, along with a limited supply of Ag tires. You should do business with a dealer who specializes in Ag tires . . . who hires people with Ag tire expertise and trains his staff on the latest Ag tire technologies. CEAT Specialty Tires works closely with its distributors and dealers to educate them on the latest technologies so they can better advise their farmer customers.

Customer Service

Successful Ag tire dealers are always off the charts on customer service. They treat their farmer customers almost like family. You can usually get a pretty good sense of how a dealer treats his sales and service staff by their tone, attentiveness, word-of-mouth and so on.

A very tangible customer service assessment is when you have a tire failure in the field. A good tire dealer will move mountains to get a service truck to your location as quickly as possible because down time is a killer for farmers.

Also, when a tire manufacturer’s warranty comes into play, does the tire dealer work closely with the manufacturer to handle the situation?

Your Profits or Their Profits?

Tire dealers, like all businesses of course, need to make decent profits to stay in business. But do they have your farm’s viability at heart when they make recommendations. Do they provide you an honest assessment of your tire needs?

For instance, If the tractor is just doing jobs in the yard, it may not need as much tread depth and technical sophistication as one pulling heavy implements in the field. But if good tread depth is needed for the job, the dealer won’t let you go into the field with one arm tied behind his back.

Can the deer antler in the sidewall be repaired or have there been so many punctures that you are better off with a new tire? This also gets into overall expertise and experience. A good tire dealer will check the overall condition of the punctured tire to assess its potential for failure. A repair is much less expensive than a new tire but will that repaired tire fail when you need it the most – again, no one wants down time in the field!

You need a tire dealer who takes the time to understand your operation and makes recommendations that are in your best interest – a real partner! We at CEAT Specialty Tires take a similar approach in determining the dealers that represent our brand. The tire dealer is our connection to farmers and ranchers and is absolutely critical to the ongoing success of our company and the end users of our products.

With spring planting season in full swing in most parts of the country, farmers are getting their various implements into the fields and ready for action. If your implement equipment needs new tires, here’s some facts to know:

Overall, implement tires by necessity have grown larger in diameter as well as section width. This increase in size was due to the increasing sizes of equipment and additional attachments to existing equipment. Larger, heavier and more complex implements require more load and speed capacity.

Farm implement tires traditionally were barely adequate at best in many fitments, but as the equipment size and more importantly the weights increased, there was a need to increase the weight carrying capacity to minimize tire failures. Increasing the diameter, as well as the section width, increases the size of the air chamber and can increase the tires’ weight carrying capacity along with raising the ply rating.

Also, farmers are becoming more concerned with compaction. They are looking for options to minimize compaction during all operations in their fields. This is why CEAT developed the Spraymax VF for self-propelled sprayers. The CEAT Spraymax VF is engineered to carry 40 percent more load than a standard radial. Alternately, it carries the same load as a standard radial at 40 percent lesser pressure. Furthermore, the Spraymax VF delivers exceptional traction in the field and a smooth steady ride on the road.

Key elements of the Spraymax VF design include:

• Stepped lug design provides better grip and traction.
• The center tie bar delivers superior roadability.
• Its rounded shoulders mean less soil and crop damage.
• The higher NSD ensures longer life.

Tread patterns on implement tires have typically been straight rib designs with low void ratios, but these designs tend to skid or push soil forward. Therefore, more and more implement tire tread designs like the Spraymax VF have some variations that incorporate higher lug-to-void ratios. These designs roll better and have enhanced self-cleaning capabilities. They also help stabilize the equipment to minimize sideways movement on hills.

We are also seeing a transition in implement tires from bias ply construction to radial tires such as the Spraymax VF that can be used in the field at lower air pressures than bias tires. Bias implement tires performed okay when the equipment was smaller, road use was not needed as much and the tractors didn’t drive as fast. Today’s equipment has outgrown the weight carrying capacity and speeds of standard bias implement tires.

The radial implement tires that employ IF or VF technology are even more adept at accommodating heavier equipment loads while minimizing soil compaction. In addition to reducing soil compaction, evenly distributing the load across the largest possible footprint also reduces fuel consumption by increasing flotation. With diesel prices at their present levels and farmers facing sky high input costs (i.e., fertilizer), farmers are more interested than ever in reducing fuel costs.

The Spraymax VF, as well as CEAT farm tractor tires, offer the latest technologies at an affordable price for farms and ranches of all sizes. CEAT believes the advantages of VF Ag tires, including soil conservation and higher yield per acre, should not be the sole realm of the mega farming operations. CEAT is delivering VF technology at an affordable price to small and midsize farms that are often multi-generational. The cost per hour of CEAT farm tires is among the industry’s best; coupled with an aggressive entry level price, CEAT delivers VF technology and other Ag tire innovations to farms and ranches of all sizes.

Farm tractor tires are a major investment for farmers and ranchers. The stakes are even higher these days with input costs, such as fertilizer, going through the roof! Making a false move on the type of farm tractor tire or brand you purchase can negatively impact operating costs and productivity.

It’s always good to be armed with information when you visit your local tire dealer – even more so if you are buying farm tractor tires online.

Before you Google “tractor tires for sale” or “tractor tires near me,” it’s important to understand the main classifications of tractor tires:

R1 Tires

These are excellent tractor tires for everyday farm chores. They perform efficiently in muddy fields and dirt but are not as capable on road surfaces and especially not on snow.

R-1W Tires

This is a more aggressive type of tractor tires in terms of tread; the W (wet) in the name signifies its ability to perform tasks on deep mud or clay. This ability comes from a 25 percent deeper cleat compared to the R1 tire. This tire is a perfect fit for working in muddy or greasy clay areas.

The CEAT FARMAX R80 is good example of a R-1W farm tractor tire featuring the latest in tire technologies . It helps reduce soil compaction and delivers enhanced roadability, superior traction, and longer service life, thus raising the levels of efficiency on any farm or ranch.

With a higher angle lug and lug overlap at the center, FARMAX R80 tractor tires offer superior roadability. A lower angle at the shoulder brings home superior traction.

Wider treads, with larger inner volume reduce soil compaction and rounded shoulders cause less disruption to soil and crop, while a tread depth of R1-W lends the FARMAX R80 tractor tire a long service life.

Georgia peanut farmer Justin Studstill purchased his first set of CEAT Ag radial tires (FARMAX R80, size 480/80R46 R1-W R) in 2021 on the advice of his tire dealer.

“We plant and harvest peanuts in about a 60 square mile area, so our tractors spend a lot of time on the road,” he notes. “The CEAT tires provide a good stable ride. They don’t get squirrelly like some of the brands we’ve used. And it looks like the tread wear is going to be outstanding.”

Studstill says the traction provided by the CEAT tires is as good as any of the major Ag tire brands he has run on, and the acquisition price is very favorable compared to these so-called “name brands.”

R-1HA tires are another radial type that will be in wide use this spring and summer on farms across America. This type is especially used for row cropping as its tall and slim design makes it easier to fit between the rows of plants. The R-1 HA (High Angle) name refers to its higher tread angle of 45 degrees, instead of the traditional 23 degrees in R-1.

The Spraymax VF, for example, is specially designed for self-propelled sprayers. It is engineered to carry 40% more load than a standard radial. Alternately, it carries the same load as a standard radial at 40% lesser pressure.

In the field, VF tires can be operated at 40 percent lower air pressure as compared to standard radials, for the same load. For the IF tires, the air pressure can be lowered by 20 percent compared to standard radials, while carrying the same load. The lower pressure of VF and IF tires produce a larger tire footprint which leads to lower soil compaction.

Be informed before you purchase a set of farm tractor tires to get the most value out of your significant investment.

Farm tractor tire technologies are progressing at an impressive rate to keep up with the tractors and other wheeled farm equipment that keep getting larger and more sophisticated.

Farmers are also increasingly aware of the insidious effects of soil compaction on their farm’s yield per acre. Tire manufacturers such as CEAT are devoting considerable resources to developing farm tractor and implement tires that minimize soil compaction while delivering dependable traction. IF and VF tire technology is a relatively recent (and underutilized) technological advance that can help farmers increase productivity and efficiency, while reducing soil compaction, lowering fuel consumption, and providing a lower total cost of ownership (TCO) than standard radial tires.

For example, the CEAT Spraymax VF, which is specially designed for self-propelled sprayers, is engineered to carry 40 percent more load than a standard radial. Alternately, it carries the same load as a standard radial at 40 percent lesser pressure. This allows the sprayer to effectively work the field while minimizing soil compaction.

Good roadability (smooth ride, less squirm) is also a key farm tractor tire attribute these days as farmers spend more time on the road working tracts spread out over a greater square mile area.  CEAT FARMAX farm tractor tires are getting rave reviews from farmers across North America, such as Georgia peanut farmer Justin Studstill, for their smooth and steady ride on the road.

With all the new technologies and information coming out about farm tractor tires, there are, however, some common myths still circulating out there. Here are five of the more prevalent ones:

• The farm tractor tire’s inflation is okay as long as it does not have a big bulge. This is a myth from the bias tire days when any kind of sidewall bulge meant the bias tire was low on air. Radial tires must have a certain bulge in order for the tire to deliver optimum traction and the overall performance intended by the tire manufacturer. You cannot confirm a radial tire’s proper air inflation through a visual check. Consult with your tractor/tire dealer and check the tire manufacturer’s databook and load range table. The radial’s superior performance is realized only with proper inflation.
• The dealer (tractor or tire dealer) sets the tires to the proper inflation when the tractor or new tires are delivered to the farmer. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. New farm tractor tires are normally inflated to 30 psi when shipped from the factory to minimize bouncing on the trailer. Dealers may overlook reducing the tire pressures or may not reduce the pressure to the proper level for the load on the axle. Also, tire changers often inflate the farm tractor tire to 35 psi to set the tire beads on the rim. The farmer must take the initiative to ensure that the pressure matches the load on the axle by double checking with the dealer and consulting the tire databook and load range tables.
• Under-inflated farm tractor tires can cause premature wear, less than optimal performance and even outright failure, but over-inflated tires are not that big of an issue. Over -nflated farm tractor tires are a problem as well. Over inflation can cause loss of tire traction, excessive soil compaction, fast wear both in field and on road, higher fuel consumption, harsh ride and impact breaks.
• You get what you pay for in farm tractor tires. When you buy the most expensive farm tractor tire available at your dealer, you will undoubtedly get a good quality tire. But you must compare the acquisition price with the tread wear and overall performance achieved to ascertain the true total cost of ownership (TC0) of that tire. This is the only meaningful metric on tire value. For instance, if a particular brand tire costs half the price of the most expensive brand but delivers 80% of the operating hours and comparable performance, then the less expensive tire is delivering a better TCO by 30%. CEAT farm tractor tires, such as the FARMAX R80, are gaining rapid acceptance from North American farmers because they deliver a superior TCO. CEAT farm tractor tires deliver the latest tire technologies at a more affordable price.
• Farm tractor tires can be stored any way possible without any harm. Today’s farm tractor tires are indeed very tough and durable, but how you store them during the winter or when not in use can have a major influence on how long they ultimately last. The first step is to clean them before storage. Once your tires are clean and dry, store them in an airtight bag if possible. Store tractor tires in an upright position, not lying down flat or stacked if possible. Make sure to keep them in a cool, dry place away from the sun. Click here for more farm tractor tire maintenance advice.

Farm tractor tires and implement tires represent a significant portion of any farm’s operating budget, so it makes total sense to get as much wear and performance out of your tires as possible.

Here are 10 tractor tire maintenance tips to help you maximize your tire investment:

Study the manual – Understanding the equipment and tire manuals will help you identify the do’s and don’ts. Manuals list the basic instructions on vehicle and tire care, as well as advice on troubleshooting frequent problems.

Learn about your tires’ specification – There’ a wealth of information in the tractor tire’s specifications, including its height, width, diameter, model number, size of the tractor tire, and the recommended tire pressure and weight. Here’s a related blog post on reading a tire sidewall.

Inflate properly – Nothing is more important than keeping your farm tires properly inflated. A tire operating outside of the specified inflation range is a problem waiting to happen – probably sooner rather than later. The farmer may have a tire not suited for his or her application, or the farmer may need to adjust the speed or load to ensure the tire is operating within these boundaries. Damage is inflicted on any tire that operates outside of these limits and will eventually lead to failure.

Inflate to the air pressure that is appropriate for the most demanding application for each tire. This critical information is contained in the tire manufacturer’s data book. The load and inflation tables show the speed range, inflation range and the load range for each tire.

Regularly check air pressure — Air pressures should be taken when the tractor tires have not been running and considered to be at a “cold” temperature. Checking tires first thing in the morning is best since they have been sitting overnight.

Air pressures taken after the tractor tire has been running will be higher than the “cold” air pressures and can be misleading. If you reduce your pressure after taking a warm inflation pressure, you likely will end up in an under-inflation situation. Under inflation of any tractor tire can result in sidewall deflection that extends beyond the deflection parameters of the sidewall, resulting in tire damage.

Don’t overload tractor or implement – Each tractor tire has a load capacity as mentioned above. Carrying load that is way above the recommended load for the tractor or implement will cause damage and increase the tread wear rate. This critical information is contained in the tire manufacturer’s data book.

Visually inspect tractor tires – Look for abnormalities in the tread pattern and sidewall, such as bulges cracks and tears. Also, if you see signs of irregular wear in the tread, this could mean the tire is not being used properly for the application (most often is under inflated) or there is an issue with the equipment. Either way, detecting irregular wear early will help you correct the problem before too much damage is done. Your implement and tire dealers can help you evaluate.

Clean tractor tires before storing – Properly storing your farm tires over the winter or when they are not in use will certainly extend their life. The first step is to clean them before storage.

Tractor tires typically accumulate brake dust, road grime, and dirt. This gunk can be harmful to the tire if it is allowed to stay on for extended periods of time. Use soap, water and a good tire brush. Then wipe the tires down completely and allow them to air dry.

Place tractor tires in airtight storage — Once your tires are clean and dry, store them in an airtight bag. Airtight storage is necessary to prevent the lubricating oil within the tire from evaporating during storage. The best airtight containers to use are airtight plastic bags like lawn or garden bags. When you place the tires in these bags, try to get out as much air as possible.

Store them upright in a cool, dry place — Store tractor tires in an upright position, not lying down flat or stacked if possible. Make sure to keep them in a cool, dry place away from the sun. Click here for informative video on tractor tire storage.

Watch the speed – Farm tractor tires are spending more and more time on the road these days as farmers work tracts that are more spread out. Most farm tires have a maximum speed rating of 25 miles per hour or less. When drivers go faster than their recommended speeds, they generate an excessive amount of heat in the tires. This heat breaks down the rubber in the tires, separating interior liners and belts. Not a good thing as you can imagine!

Overall, use the tire manufacturer data book and your trusted tire dealer to help you develop a consistent tire maintenance program that will save you considerable dollars.

What air pressures should I carry in my farm tractor tires? How often should I check my air pressures? While the answers are dependent on many different factors, here’s some general advice:

The air pressures in farm tractor tires are extremely important for getting the optimal wear and performance from the tires, as well as possibly avoiding dreaded downtime.

Inflate to the air pressure that is appropriate for the most demanding application for each tire. This critical information is contained in the tire manufacturer’s data book. The load and inflation tables show the speed range, the inflation range and the load range for each tire.

A tractor tire operating outside of the specified range is a problem waiting to happen – probably sooner rather than later. The farmer may have a tire not suited for his or her application, or the farmer may need to adjust the speed or load to ensure the tire is operating within these boundaries. Damage is inflicted on any tire that operates outside of these limits and will eventually lead to failure.

The heaviest load the tire carries may not be the most demanding application. If that tire operates at higher speeds such as during the roading of one’s equipment, the highest speeds are likely the most demanding aspect, and air pressures will need to be set to account for the increased speed.

Speed Kills

Speed generates heat, which is the No. 1 enemy of rubber and your tires. Rubber shrinks when subjected to excess heat and causes separations due to the internal tire construction. These separations lead to failures. They can be dangerous as well as inconvenient and expensive because they never happen in the shed. Air pressures should be taken when the tires have not been running and are considered to be at a “cold” temperature. Checking tires first thing in the morning is best since they have been sitting overnight.

Check When Cold

Air pressures taken after the tire has been running will be higher than the “cold” air pressures and can be misleading. If you reduce your pressure after taking a warm inflation pressure, you likely will end up in an under-inflation situation. Under inflation of any tire can result in sidewall deflection that extends beyond the deflection parameters of the sidewall, resulting in tire damage.

Overinflation can also be damaging. Maximum “cold” inflation pressures should be adhered to very diligently. The air chamber determines the load each tire can carry. The larger the air chamber, the larger the load it can carry. When you have too small of an air chamber to carry the required load, it is sometimes tempting to over-inflate the tire. Increased air pressures can carry more load but exceeding the manufacturers’ maximum inflation pressure is not endorsed by any manufacturer.

There are some situations where a manufacturer may utilize extended load and inflation tables for certain tires in certain applications in their portfolio. These extended tables are not usually printed in their data books. If you have this information from the manufacturer, it is fine to follow their directions.

Overinflation is a Problem Too

Overinflation with over loads can help reduce the sidewall deflection, but the structural integrity of the tire, as well as the service condition likely, have been compromised. Running tires in an overloaded and over-inflated condition is really asking for a catastrophic failure. Manufacturers know the parameters of their tires and will determine if their tires will function properly in these conditions.

All manufacturers have buffer zones for inflation pressures as well as speed ratings. What is comfortable and reasonable for a manufacturer to recommend is up to them, and as tire dealer, you should follow the manufacturer’s specifications.

Farm tractor tires are expensive, down time is critical and tires do not repair themselves!

Inflation pressure for agricultural tires is very simple. Farmers just need to inflate to the most demanding application. The hard part is determining exactly the most demanding application. Inflating tires to their maximum recommended air pressures is one approach, but it’s not the best way to deliver the maximum performance and benefits from your tires.

Farm tractor tires have made substantial technology and quality advances over the past 10 to 15 years. So many options and making the wrong decision can hurt your productivity and operating budget big time.

Before you Google “tractor tires for sale” or “tractor tires near me,” it’s important to understand the main classifications of tractor tires:

R1 Tires

These are excellent tractor tires for everyday farm chores. They perform efficiently in muddy fields and dirt but are not as capable on road surfaces and especially not on snow.

R-1W Tires

This is a more aggressive type of tractor tire in terms of tread; the W (wet) in the name signifies its ability to perform tasks on deep mud or clay. This ability comes from a 25 percent deeper cleat compared to the R1 tire. This tractor tire is a perfect fit for working in muddy or greasy clay areas.

The CEAT FARMAX R85, a good example of the R-1W farm tractor tire, helps reduce soil compaction and delivers enhanced roadability, superior traction, and longer service life, thus raising the levels of efficiency on any farm or ranch

F.eatures include:

• A Wider tread with larger inner volume to reduce soil compaction.
• Rounded shoulders cause less disruption to soil and crop.
• With a higher angle lug and lug overlap at the center, the R85 farm tractor tires offer superior roadability.
• A lower angle at the shoulder brings home superior traction.

R-1HA Tires

This type is especially used for row cropping as its tall and slim design makes it easier to fit between the rows of plants. The R-1 HA (High Angle) name refers to its higher tread angle of 45 degrees, instead of the traditional 23 degrees in R-1.

The Spraymax VF, for example, is specially designed for self-propelled sprayers. It is engineered to carry 40% more load than a standard radial. Alternately, it carries the same load as a standard radial at 40% lesser pressure.

So what are the benefits of IF (increased flexion) and VF (very increased flexion)? The two major characteristics which set VF and IF  tires apart from standard radials:

1)Higher load carrying capacity:

The VF (Very high flexion) tires are designed to carry 40 percent more load, as compared to standard radial tires at the same pressure. On the other hand, the IF (Increased Flexion) tires are equipped to carry 20 percent higher load than the standard radial tires at the same pressure.

2) Reduced soil compaction: In the field, VF tires can be operated at 40 percent lower air pressure as compared to standard radials, for the same load. For the IF tires, the air pressure can be lowered by 20 percent compared to standard radials, while carrying the same load. The lower pressure of VF and IF tires produce a larger tire footprint which leads to lower soil compaction.

Radial vs. Bias

Whether to go with radial or bias farm tractor tires is based on the type of equipment and application.

Radials allow the sidewall and tread to function as two independent features of the tire. Bias tires have multiple rubber plies, or layers overlapping each other. Puncture resistance is better in bias, but radials have better traction.

Bias tires are designed to carry loads and transport them over distances. Radial-designed tires carry the load and transport that load, but also provide increased traction, improved flotation, reduced compaction and a longer service life.

The Bottom Line

A very important consideration when selecting tractor tires is the intended application; is it meant to be used for pulling, plowing, tilling or something else?

Doing some of your own research and getting advice from your local Ag tire dealer, you can make an informed decision on a very importance purchase for your farm.

Are you in the market for farm tractor tires? Here’s some key information you’ll need to find the right tires for your equipment and applications.

Tractor tires in the U.S. are regulated by the Department of Transportation and are given an “agricultural” tire classification which includes tractors, as well as combines, harvesters, sprayers, trailers and other heavy agricultural equipment. Ag tires have very prominent, strategically placed lugs in order to grip the terrain they are traditionally used on.

The rims on your farm tractor tires are a direct determinant of the diameter of the tire. Your tractor tires should always match the rim size.

Tractor tires are always classified in size by “width” and “rim diameter.” Or you can see tractor tires with three numbers on the sidewall. Sometimes, you’ll see them advertised with three numbers, which would signify “height,” “width” and “rim diameter.”

Sizing in terms of millimeters (mm) has become more common but you may come across tractor tires advertised not in inches but millimeters. For instance, for the CEAT FARMAX R85 farm tractor tire, the size will appear as “420/85R30.” This sizing is the equivalent standard of 16.9R30.

Section Width: The “420” refers to the section width of the tire in millimeters. Divide the 420 by 25.4 and you will get the standard measurement. These conversions don’t always calculate out exactly. The section width is the widest measurement of the tire normally at the center of the sidewall on the bottom side of the tire with a standard inflation pressure and standard load.

Aspect Ratio: The “85” is the aspect ratio of the tire. This is the ratio of the sidewall height to the section width of the tire. In this case the sidewall height is 85% of the section width of the tire. If the “85” is not in the sizing, you have a bias tire and the aspect ratio is a standard “85.”

“R”: The “R” stands for radial. If there is no “R” then you have a bias tire. Usually, the bias tires use a dash in place of the “R.”

Rim Diameter: The rim diameter is stated in inches, and in this example it is “30.”

Load Index/Speed Rating: Right after the sizing you will find the load index/speed rating for the tire. In this example it is “140 A8.” The “140” is the load index and the corresponding load can be found in the standard load table — it equals 7,165#. The speed rating is the “A8/B”. This tire has a dual speed rating. This speed rating equivalent can be found in the Speed Rating tables and “A8” equals 25 mph and the “B” equals 31 mph. In this case, the same 7,165# load can be carried at 31 mph with the maximum inflation pressure. In most cases with dual speed ratings the second speed rating is higher than the first speed rating and is quite often followed by a reduced or devalued load index. If this is the case with a dual speed rating and a dual load index, the tire is rated to carry a reduced load at higher speeds. A tires’ load index/speed ratings are determined by the heaviest load at the highest speed. If you have a dual marked tire with the load devalued for higher speed, the load index is the lower speed and the heavier load.

Maximum Inflation Pressure: The maximum recommended inflation pressure is identified on each tire. In this example you will find an inflation statement that says 23 psi is the maximum inflation pressure.

Directional Symbol: Some tires will have a circle on the sidewall with an arrow incorporated that shows the direction the tire is designed to rotate.

Manufacture Date Code: There is always an oval stamped into the sidewall near the bead that most often has one or two letters followed by four numbers. The letters signify the plant the tire was built in, and the numbers are the date code. The first two numbers are the week of the year, and the last two numbers are the last two numbers of the year.

Maximum Mounting Inflation Pressure: All Ag tires should have a picture of a section cut of a tire with a triangle inside with a statement of the maximum inflation pressures to use when seating the bead to the rim during mounting.

Ply Rating: You may see something like a “12pr or 12 ply” following the size of the tire and no load index/speed rating. This designation would be on bias tires and refers to the carcass strength which is a 12-ply rating. The higher the pr or ply number the stronger the carcass strength. This number is purely a strength of carcass number and does not refer to the actual number of carcass plies that are utilized in the manufacturing of the tire. There is no good way to convert ply ratings to the load index of radials and vis versa. Radials have a load index/speed rating, and bias tires have a ply or pr rating.

Service Type Description: These markings indicate the type of service the tire has been designed for. There are various types that include implement, forestry, industrial, loader, multipurpose as well as agroforestry and others.

Service Description: Some tires may have a service description symbol on the sidewall. These symbols are normally a circle with and arrow point incorporated in the circle which indicates a drive tire. If there is a circle with an arrow that is extended outside the circle you are looking at a free rolling or non-drive tire.

Tractor Tire Tube: One or the other designation will be present on the sidewall. When you see a tube type designation the tire needs to have a tube installed for mounting and service. Tubeless indicates the tire is designed for use without a tube. You may add a tube to a tubeless tire if needed especially when utilizing liquid ballast.

Tires without tubes last longer, as they are far easier to repair and do not require you to remove the tire, then remove the tube for repair work. Tubes are generally a requirement for tires that require liquid ballast, which is inserted into the tube itself. The choice for tubed versus no-tube tires ultimately weighs on this requirement, or purely on the tractor operator’s preference.

Steel Belted: Some Ag tires will have “steel belted” on the sidewall which indicates steel belting

Lots of information to digest. Your tire dealer can break it all down for you, and tire manufacturer websites are also great sources of information for a tractor tire size chart.

Most farmers have different size tractors working their land to fulfill different tasks. Different tire inflation tactics are required for each.

Looking at small two-wheel-drive tractors, if they are fitted with bias tires the approach is pretty simple. Quite often these are fitted with front-end loaders and are utilized by small land owners for many different operations. In these situations, the air pressures should be maximized (according to the equipment specs.) in the front wheel positions and likely maximized in the rear.

If you have a two-wheel-drive tractor fitted with radials, you should inflate to the most demanding application. When the tractor is fitted with a front-end loader you need to inflate the fronts to their maximum. The rears can be inflated to the most demanding application which may be less than the maximum inflation pressures.

Rear tire inflation pressures quite often are determined by the type of implement attached to the three-point hitch and its weight. Ultimately, the inflation pressure is determined by the load on each axle as well as the maximum speed. 

It goes without saying that you replace an Ag tire when you have a tire failure. It is also very true that down time on the farm can be very detrimental, especially during key times such as planting.

The vast majority of failures happen when you are at your busiest and can ill afford downtime. A well-conceived preventative tire replacement program can minimize your unexpected tire failures.

For instance, do you have enough tread depth remaining for another season while retaining traction and overall functionality? The tread depths on your main workhorse tractor should never be below about 25% of the original tread depth because your traction will be compromised and your efficiency will be dramatically reduced, especially in high torque applications. Utility tractor tires may only need to hold air and tread depth may be much less important. Combine tires and grain cart tires rarely wear out but can have extensive cracking or weather checking that can be a problem.

Preventative Replacement Tire Program

The first part of a preventative replacement tire program should be a complete and thorough assessment of all of the tires in your fleet. Ideally, this should be done when fall harvest is complete, but it is never too late to take this important action.

Here are some key actions:

Record the date of your assessment and the operational hours for your power units. Compare and calculate hours run per year and anticipated hours for your upcoming year.

Inspect any damaged areas and make proper repairs if appropriate. If any damaged areas have exposed cords, that tire will fail. It’s difficult to predict when that will happen but it will not be at a convenient time nor place. If you have a tire that is questionable, you should probably replace it before it becomes a problem at a critical time.

Are the tires wearing evenly? If you experience uneven wear, there may be a mechanical reason that likely can be corrected. Air pressures should be recorded because under inflation, as well as over inflation, can cause wear patterns that should be corrected. Do the front lugs have a scrubbed appearance on your front wheel assist tractor? If you see this, it is possible you have a lead/lag issue that needs addressed. Measure and record the remaining tread depths. As you compile tread depth information from year to year you can predict the remaining service life of your tires. If the remaining tread depths are different for tires on the same piece of equipment, a rotation may enable you to extend the service life of the tires.

What are the main uses for each piece of your equipment? Your need for replacement tires should go along with how critical each piece of equipment is to your overall operation. Do you have a backup tractor in case of failures? Should you have any replacement tires due to availability? How much down time can you afford at a critical time?

Are your tires incurring any stubble damage?  If you find any exposed cords on a tire, that tire needs to be replaced. Front tractor and combine tires are the most likely to incur damage.  Is it time to replace or possibly rotate tires to extend the service life? You may consider mechanical stubble manipulation to reduce stubble damage and extend your tires’ service life.

Preventative tire replacement should be a key part of your equipment maintenance program. There will be failures, and downtime that are disruptive and quite expensive. The goal of any maintenance program is to reduce failures and problems to a minimum.

The sidewall of an Ag tire contains a wealth of useful information. It can tell you:

• where the tire came from and when it was manufactured
• What it’s capable of performance-wise
• Its size and other really important specifications

Manufacturer: The manufacturer is usually displayed prominently like “CEAT” on the sidewall. Sometimes the manufacturers’ name on the sidewall is the company marketing the tire. This can result from other manufacturers building tires for another manufacturer.

Brand Name: The brand names are also prominently displayed on the sidewall like “FARMAX R85” in CEAT’s case.

Tread Depth and Carcass Construction: Below or near the brand name you usually find  the type of carcass construction which in this case is “radial” along with the tread depth category which is “R1W.”

Product Sizing: The size of the tire is always on the sidewall and will be in standard nomenclature or in metrics. Sometimes both are stated on the sidewall and usually the equivalent nomenclature is listed in smaller print under the primary sizing. CEAT’s case it will appear like “420/85R30.” Below this sizing is the equivalent standard sizing of 16.9R30.

Section Width: The “420” refers to the section width of the tire in millimeters. Divide the 420 by 25.4 and you will get the standard measurement. These conversions don’t always calculate out exactly. The section width is the widest measurement of the tire normally at the center of the sidewall on the bottom side of the tire with a standard inflation pressure and standard load.

Aspect Ratio: The “85” is the aspect ratio of the tire. This is the ratio of the sidewall height to the section width of the tire. In this case the sidewall height is 85% of the section width of the tire. If the “85” is not in the sizing, you have a bias tire and the aspect ratio is a standard “85.”

“R”: The “R” stands for radial. If there is no “R” in the sizing you have a bias tire. Usually the bias tires use a dash in place of the “R.”

Rim Diameter: The rim diameter is stated in inches and in this example it is “30.”

Load Index/Speed Rating: Right after the sizing you will find the load index/speed rating for the tire. In this example it is “140 A8” The “140” is the load index and the corresponding load can be found in the standard load tables and it equals 7,165#. The speed rating is the “A8/B”. This tire has a dual speed rating. This speed rating equivalent can be found in the Speed Rating tables and “A8” equals 25 mph and the “B” equals 31 mph. In this case the same 7,165# load can be carried at 31 mph with the maximum inflation pressure. In most cases with dual speed ratings the second speed rating is higher that the first speed rating and is quite often followed by a reduced or devalued load index. If this is the case with a dual speed rating and a dual load index the tire is rated to carry a reduced load at higher speeds. A tires’ load index/speed ratings are determined by the heaviest load at the highest speed. If you have a dual marked tire with the load devalued for higher speed, the load index is the lower speed and the heavier load.

“E” Marking: Sometimes you see Ag tires with an “E” marking inside of a circle on the sidewall. This indicates that it has been tested and approved for use in Europe and passes their quality and standards specifications.

Maximum Inflation Pressure: The maximum recommended inflation pressure is identified on each tire. In this example you will find an inflation statement that says 23 psi is the maximum inflation pressure.

Directional Symbol: Some tires will have a circle on the sidewall with an arrow incorporated that shows the direction the tire is designed to rotate.

Manufacture Date Code: There is always an oval stamped into the sidewall near the bead that most often has one or two letters followed by four numbers. The letters signify the plant the tire was built in and the numbers are the date code. The first two numbers are the week of the year and the last two numbers are the last two numbers of the year.

Maximum Mounting Inflation Pressure: All Ag tires should have a picture of a section cut of a tire with a triangle inside with a statement of the maximum inflation pressures to use when seating the bead to the rim during mounting.

Ply Rating: You may see something like a “12pr or 12 ply” following the size of the tire and no load index/speed rating. This designation would be on bias tires and refers to the carcass strength which is a 12-ply rating. The higher the pr or ply number the stronger the carcass strength. This number is purely a strength of carcass number and does not refer to the actual number of carcass plys that are utilized in the manufacturing of the tire. There is no good way to convert ply ratings to the load index of radials and vis versa. Radials have a load index/speed rating and bias tires have a ply or pr rating.

Service Type Description: These markings indicate the type of service the tire has been designed for. There are various types that include implement, forestry, industrial, loader, multipurpose as well as Agroforestry and others.

Service Description: Some tires may have a service description symbol on the sidewall. These symbols are normally a circle with and arrow point incorporated in the circle which indicates a drive tire. If there is a circle with an arrow that is extended outside the circle you are looking at a free rolling or non-drive tire.

Tubeless or Tube Type: One or the other designation will be present on the sidewall. When you see a tube type designation the tire needs to have a tube installed for mounting and service. Tubeless indicates the tire is designed for use without a tube. You may add a tube to a tubeless tire if needed especially when utilizing liquid ballast.

Steel Belted: Some Ag tires will have “Steel Belted” on the sidewall which indicates steel belting is incorporated in the design of the tire.

Warning Statement: All Ag tires should have a warning statement on the sidewall that points out important mounting details that need careful attention paid to them to reduce the risk of accidents.

Pry Notch: This depressed area near the bead is designed for use of a pry bar during mounting or demounting the tire.

Country of Manufacture:  All Ag tires will state the country the tire was built. In CEAT’s case it states “Made in India.”