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What Are Backhoe Tires?

Helen Akers
Helen Akers

Backhoe tires are industrial strength tires for a backhoe construction vehicle. These vehicles use front and rear backhoe tires that come in different sizes and traction types. Backhoe vehicles resemble a skid-steer loader with a front and rear crane that scoops up large amounts of dirt or other heavy materials.

The different types of backhoe tires include front and rear sizes and styles. Front backhoe tires are typically smaller in size than rear tires. Larger sizes and increased traction are usually needed for the rear tires since a stronger footing is required in order to successfully operate the crane.

The more expensive the tire, the more likely it is to be puncture resistant.
The more expensive the tire, the more likely it is to be puncture resistant.

Front backhoe tires have an appearance that resembles heavy duty truck tires. The lower grade varieties offer deeper grooves that help the vehicle establish traction. Deeper grooves also provide the driver with better control when maneuvering the vehicle over unsteady terrain, such as rocks and gravel.

Higher grade front tires have more protruding tread features. Not only do these features provide better traction and vehicle stability, they also protect the tires against unforeseen hazards. Some of these include punctures, cuts or tears from sharp materials, including glass, nails and rocks.

Backhoe tires provide more traction for navigating rough terrain like gravel.
Backhoe tires provide more traction for navigating rough terrain like gravel.

Rear backhoe tires almost always have high grade traction features. Many models have some sort of built-in protection against punctures from sharp materials. These tires are also able to resist sudden shocks from uneven terrain and sharp objects. Rear tires for backhoe vehicles are often wide in order to provide more support for the heavier weight of the rear crane.

Most types of rear backhoe tires are also resistant to tears and cracks. The rubber used in these tires tends to last longer and is stronger than that in tires for normal passenger vehicles. Manufacturers may provide several makes for backhoe operators to choose from.

Since backhoes work by pushing materials backward, these tires are strong enough to give the vehicle enough pushing power. This includes pushing through piles of dirt and resistant, heavy terrains and materials. The tires prevent the vehicle from becoming stuck, giving it enough power to move through difficult material, including wet or marshy earth.

Both new and used tires for backhoes are available for purchase. Some manufacturers and individuals market these types of tires through online auctions. Depending on size, tread type and manufacturer, they may be quite expensive. Higher priced tires tend to provide a longer life and greater resistance to punctures. They may also provide better stability and traction control.

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    • The more expensive the tire, the more likely it is to be puncture resistant.
      By: Martin RICHIARDONE
      The more expensive the tire, the more likely it is to be puncture resistant.
    • Backhoe tires provide more traction for navigating rough terrain like gravel.
      By: Virynja
      Backhoe tires provide more traction for navigating rough terrain like gravel.