In any warehouse or industrial environment, safety and efficiency rely heavily on equipment that performs optimally. Among the most overlooked, but critically important, components are forklift tyres. When worn or damaged, tyres can compromise handling, increase wear on the forklift, and pose serious safety hazards.

Knowing when to replace them isn’t just smart maintenance; it’s essential for operational continuity and workplace safety.

1. Visible Cracks and Chunking

One of the most obvious signs of tyre degradation is visible cracking or “chunking,” where pieces of the tyre tread physically break off. These signs indicate the rubber has deteriorated, often due to age, chemical exposure, or excessive heat. Chunked tyres lose traction quickly and can destabilise the forklift during use, especially on uneven surfaces.

2. Smooth or Worn-Down Tread

Just like with car tyres, worn tread on forklift tyres significantly reduces grip. When the tread becomes shallow or smooth, the tyre’s ability to provide friction decreases. This can result in reduced braking performance and difficulty turning, especially dangerous in tight warehouse aisles or during high-speed manoeuvres.

3. Flat Spots or Uneven Wear

If the forklift has been parked for extended periods without use, or if it’s frequently overloaded, tyres may develop flat spots. Similarly, uneven wear patterns may emerge from misalignment or poor load distribution. These inconsistencies can cause the forklift to wobble or shake while in motion, putting strain on the suspension and steering systems.

4. Tyre Separation from the Rim

In extreme cases, you may notice the tyre starting to separate from the rim—a situation that requires immediate attention. Rim separation can occur from prolonged overuse or under-inflation and may lead to complete tyre failure under load, risking damage to the machine and injury to the operator.

5. Height Reduction

Solid forklift tyres are designed with a wear line. Once this line is reached, the tyre no longer offers the original lifting height, which can alter the tilt angle of the forks. This not only affects handling but can also lead to stacking inaccuracies and potential load instability.

6. Equipment Upgrade or Resale Preparation

When assessing a forklift for sale in Durban, one of the first things buyers examine is the condition of the tyres. If your equipment is going on the market, worn tyres could reduce its value or even delay a sale.

Failing to replace forklift tyres when needed risks not just the machine but the safety of your workforce. By watching for these key warning signs, you’ll ensure better performance, safer operations, and longer equipment lifespan, one tyre at a time.