Why Changing Cushion Tires on a Forklift at the Right Time Matters
Cushion tires are one of the most critical — and often overlooked — components on a forklift. Because cushion tires are made of solid rubber and are commonly used in indoor and smooth-surface applications, operators may not immediately notice wear until performance and safety are already compromised.
Replacing cushion tires when they reach their wear limit is not just about traction — it directly affects the forklift’s suspension system, operator comfort, and long-term maintenance costs.
What Are Cushion Tires Designed to Do?
Unlike pneumatic tires, cushion tires provide minimal shock absorption. Their role is to support load stability and maintain proper ride height while relying on the forklift’s suspension components to absorb impact.
As cushion tires wear down, the forklift loses a crucial buffer between the machine and the floor.
Signs Cushion Tires Need Replacement
- Tires worn close to or past the safety wear line
- Reduced ride height
- Increased vibration during operation
- Loss of traction, especially on smooth or dusty floors
- Increased operator fatigue
Ignoring these signs can lead to more serious mechanical issues.
How Worn Cushion Tires Affect Suspension Components
When cushion tires are excessively worn, the forklift’s suspension system is forced to absorb impacts it was never designed to handle continuously. This leads to accelerated wear and damage in several areas:
- Load Wheels and Bearings
Worn tires transfer shock directly into wheel bearings, causing premature bearing failure, noise, and increased rolling resistance.
- Mast Channels and Rollers
Excessive vibration causes mast rollers to wear unevenly, which can result in:
- Rough mast operation
- Increased side-to-side mast movement
- Reduced lifting precision
- Axle Components and Steering System
Lower ride height changes steering geometry, placing additional stress on:
- Kingpins
- Tie rods
- Steering cylinders
Over time, this can lead to poor handling and expensive steering repairs.
- Frame and Weld Stress
Continuous vibration and impact are transmitted into the forklift frame, increasing the risk of:
- Cracked welds
Fatigue-related structural damage.
Safety and Productivity Impacts
Worn cushion tires don’t just affect the machine — they affect the operator and the workplace:
- Longer stopping distances
- Reduced stability while lifting
- Increased operator fatigue and discomfort
- Higher risk of load shift or tip-over in tight spaces
These issues can reduce productivity and increase the risk of accidents.
The Cost of Delaying Tire Replacement
Delaying cushion tire replacement often leads to:
- Higher repair costs across multiple components
- Increased downtime due to unexpected breakdowns
- Reduced equipment lifespan
- Higher long-term operating costs
Replacing tires on time is almost always less expensive than repairing the damage caused by worn tires.
Preventative Maintenance Is Key
Regular inspections and preventative maintenance allow worn cushion tires to be identified early. Most manufacturers include clear wear indicators, making it easy to determine when replacement is required.
Working with a qualified service provider ensures tire replacements are performed correctly and that related components are inspected at the same time.
Final Thoughts
Cushion tires may seem like a simple component, but they play a major role in protecting your forklift and keeping it operating safely and efficiently. Replacing them when required protects suspension components, improves operator comfort, and helps avoid unnecessary downtime.
If you’re unsure whether your cushion tires are due for replacement, a professional inspection can help prevent costly repairs down the road.
Looking for a Forklift Service Partner You Can Rely On in Concord?
If your business operates in Concord, Ontario, and you want a forklift service company that prioritizes uptime, safety, and long-term value, NovaLift Equipment is the right choice.
Reliable service. Local expertise. Real results.
Need Help Assessing Your Cushion Tires?
If you’re unsure whether your forklift’s cushion tires are due for replacement, the service team at NovaLift Equipment is here to help. A quick inspection can identify excessive wear before it leads to costly repairs or downtime.
Contact NovaLift Equipment today to schedule an inspection or to discuss tire replacement options tailored to your operation.
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