As you may know, tractor tires can be very expensive. Because of that, it’s important to keep the ones you have in good condition to avoid unnecessarily breaking the bank.
Sometimes, though, it might be hard to figure out whether it’s time to change the tractor tires, especially if you’re not too knowledgeable about this topic.
So, let’s answer this question: How long do tractor tires last?
How Long Do Tractor Tires Last?
Tractor tires can last anywhere from three to 20 years. This is because it strongly depends on how they’re used and taken care of. For example, tractor tires used each day all day will not last very long. But those used only occasionally might last over a decade.
In addition, it’s important to store tractor tires properly, whether they’re attached to the tractor or not. That’s because adverse weather conditions can quickly damage the tires beyond repair.
How long can tractor tires last-A closer look
If you just bought new tractor tires and wonder how long they will last, there are some questions you need to ask yourself.
First of all, how often do you plan on using the tractor? This is important since it greatly determines how long the tires will remain in good condition.
For example, tires on a tractor that’s used every day for the whole day majority of the year will definitely need to be replaced more often.
On the other hand, if you only use your tractor a couple of days for a few weeks out of the year, then you might be able to avoid changing them for quite some time.
In general, tractor tires that are used frequently may last anywhere from two to three years, sometimes maybe even longer. But tires that aren’t used as often and are well taken care of might last for up to twenty years.
So, it’s definitely something worth keeping in mind.
How do you know when it’s time to change your tractor tires?
There are several ways to tell that it’s time to change tractor tires.
Firstly, it’s important to keep track of the last time you changed the tires. If you think that it’s been long enough in terms of how often you use them, you may want to invest in a new set.
The second thing you want to look out for is tread depth. Simply put, if the bumpy patterns on the tires are becoming less visible and start losing their height, it’s a solid indication that the tires may need to be changed soon.
Another way you can tell your tractor tires are getting old is if the sides of the tires are becoming damaged. This can be the result of the tractor being scratched by another piece of machinery or the tires simply deteriorating.
When that happens, you may want to change the tires as soon as possible to ensure good performance.
Speaking of performance, you may also notice the old age of tires in the poor performance of the tractor as a whole.
When tires get old, they’re not working as efficiently as they used to, which can impact how well your tractor can perform its tasks.
So, be sure to look for any of these signs.
How can you prolong the life of tractor tires?
Tractor tires are very expensive. So, it’s a good idea to take good care of them to avoid spending a fortune on new ones every couple of years.
One of the easiest ways to ensure that your tractor tires don’t become worn out too soon is to avoid using them too often. But, of course, that’s rarely an option since a tractor is a vital piece of agricultural and farming machinery.
Luckily, there are some ways you can maintain healthy, long-lasting tractor tires.
Firstly, make sure to correctly match the tires to the tractor. Choosing the wrong tires might mean that you will only be able to enjoy them for a short period of time, as they will deteriorate very quickly.
That’s why it’s crucial to correctly choose the size and type of tractor tires.
It’s also important to closely monitor tire pressure. This prevents dry rot and keeps the tires healthy for a longer period of time. It also minimizes the risk of tire damage caused by everyday usage.
Another thing that can help maintain healthy tires is avoiding overloading.
Putting too much weight on the tractor, as well as other equipment attached to it, puts a lot of strain on the tires, shortening the lifespan.
To avoid that, only load as much weight on the tractor as indicated by the manufacturer.
What’s more, avoid overinflating the tires. While it might seem like common sense, many people aren’t aware of how much tractor tires should be inflated.
How much the tires should be inflated depends on the manufacturer and the specific models of tires. So, be sure to follow the instructions.
Following these tips can certainly help you prolong the life of your tractor tires.
How do you know the age of tires if you bought used ones?
Since tractor tires can sometimes cost a fortune, people may opt to buy used ones. It can be a great idea as long as you choose the right type and, of course, ensure that they’re not too old.
Firstly, most tractor models have a unique numbering system on their sides that allows you to tell when the tire was made. After that, you can take a look at the tire as a whole to determine if there’s any damage.
Doing both of these things can help you determine if the used tires you bought are still suitable.
Conclusion
As described above, there are many factors that influence how long tractor tires last. For instance, if you don’t use your tractor too often, you may not have to spend a dime on new tires in more than a decade.
But if your tractor is used frequently, this time becomes much shorter.
So, always be sure to take good care of your tractor tires to avoid spending a lot of money on new ones too often.
Sources: Research Gate, MDPI, SAGE Pub, and Science Direct
Jack is the owner, chief editor, and senior writer of this website.
Machinery, engines, and farming have always been a passion of his since he was a young boy. Growing up on a small farm in rural America, he learned the value of hard work and dedication from an early age.
After completing his degree in Engineering, he decided to follow his dream and became a farmer in 2009.
Since then, he has gained a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field. He has grown a variety of crops, tended to farm animals, and worked with all sorts of farming machinery. Continue reading…
