1 minute read
Big wheel. Little problem.
from Modern Tire Dealer - April 2023
by EndeavorBusinessMedia-VehicleRepairGroup
VF tires provide a larger footprint to reduce slippage, minimize soil compaction and save fuel. At times, the weight carrying capacity and speed rating of a VF tire is needed. For heavy tractors, sprayers and other equipment, the VF tire is the best choice to consider.
Also if less air pressure is desired for field work, the VF-rated tire is the better choice.
Several hybrid tread designs have been introduced into the market in the past few years. They work best for tractors that are on the road most of the time. When the correct air pressures are used, this tire design will wear smoother and provide good road traction in the summer and winter. Tires will deliver better fuel economy on the highway as they are made to have less rolling resistance.
Hybrid designs are gentler on the ground as they have more of an R-3 design than an R-1 or R-1W bar design.
AUSTIN FISCHER , ag field engineer, Firestone Ag: To truly optimize fuel usage, tire dealers must set the correct inflation pressure for each application. Other tactics to reduce fuel costs include replacing worn tires, removing unnecessary ballast, replacing liquid ballast and using CTIS.
Most growers use their tractor for more than one application throughout the year. Examples include planting in the spring and knifing once crops are growing or spraying in the summer and pulling a grain cart in the fall. To reduce fuel costs, it’s