Tractor Tire Buying Guide

The right tires can optimize your tractor's performance. But how do you decide which tires to pick? There are many different options and many things to factor into your search. It can be a bit daunting, which is why we created the following tractor tire buying guide.

Use the below tips to select the right tires for your tractor. If you want personalized suggestions or want to shop tractors for sale, visit Burrows Tractor. Our dealership is located in Yakima and Wenatchee, Washington, as well as North Plains, Oregon. We also proudly serve those in Portland, Oregon, as well as Kennewick, Ellensburg, and Richland, Washington.

The Tire Categories

Tractor tires can be broken up into different types. They are categorized by their performance in various situations. Simply decide how you'll be using the tractor, then get the tire type made for that setting.

R-1 tires, also known as agricultural tires, are the default choice for dry land farming. Their traction-grabbing lugs are designed at deep angles. They can provide exceptional grip.

R-2 tires are well-suited for wet turf. Their increased tread depth offers improved grip on slick surfaces. These tires are commonly used for industries such as rice paddy farming.

R-3 tires, also called turf tires, are the general-purpose option. They provide decent traction on loose terrain, such as gravel and sand. They also have the lowest impact on the ground as they cruise around.

R-4 tires are ideal for industrial projects. They are made with interwoven tread and lug design, which results in impressive traction. They also have low impact on the ground they move over. It’s important to note that they are larger in size and may not fit all tractors.

Using Different Tires On The Tractor

In some cases, it's better to use one set of tires in the front and a different set in the back.

For the front set, look for tractor tires that are ribbed for improved grip. Common choices include:

• F-1 tires, also known as the single-rib option. These offer better penetration into the ground as well as better steering control.
• F-2 tires, also known as the three-rib option. They give better control with decreased lateral side-slip from the center rib.
• F-2M tires. They are built with four ribs and are well-suited for tractors that carry large loads on hard terrain.

Bias Ply Or Radial

Another key decision is whether to get bias ply or radial options.

Bias ply tractor tires are built with sturdy sidewalls, which makes them less prone to damage. You’ll spend less maintaining and replacing the tires since they’ll last much longer.

Radial tires offer a smoother riding experience. They also have less impact on the soil that they run over. They can also function at a lower pressure efficiently, which helps reduce fuel costs.

The Load Rating

It's also key to look at the load rating. This correlates to the maximum tire pressure in PSI and is indicated by stars.

One star means a maximum of 18 PSI. Two stars means a maximum of 24 PSI. Three stars means a maximum of 30 PSI.

When the load rating isn't followed, the tractor tires will struggle to function well. Make sure to get the right load rating to get optimal tire performance.

We hope you found this tractor tire buying guide helpful. For more advice or to shop tractors for sale, head over to Burrows Tractor. Our expert staff is happy to assist with anything you need. We have dealerships in Yakima and Wenatchee, Washington, and North Plains, Oregon. We also serve those in Kennewick, Ellensburg, and Richland, Washington, as well as Portland, Oregon.