How to press a forklift tyre: solid clip tyres

13 September 2022

There are different types of tyres that can be fitted to forklifts, each with their own benefits. The type of forklift tyres you need depends on the design of your forklift and what you’re using it for. No matter which type of tyres you’re using, you need to take care of them if you want them to last a long time. Not sure how? Check out our handy tyres guide.

Forklifts are commonly used to lift and transport heavy loads, so strength and stability are important. That’s why the majority of forklifts are fitted with solid tyres or press-on tyres. These are not interchangeable – forklifts are built for use with solid tyres or press-on tyres, but never both. Solid tyres and press-on tyres optimise safety, are puncture-proof and they can’t burst. To assemble these types of tyres, you need a tyre press.

The tyre press is used differently for each type of tyres. Solid tyres are steady and durable, which makes them the perfect choice for many forklifts. There are two types of solid tyres available at TVH. In part 1 of this blog series, we went through the steps you need to take to assemble and disassemble solid standard tyres. In this post, we’ll be taking a look at solid clip tyres. 

Solid clip tyres have a clip that holds the tyre to the tyre rim, making them easier to assemble and disassemble than solid standard tyres. They’re otherwise constructed in the same way and just as tough as solid standard tyres. Plus, the rules for when to replace them are the same. The tyre’s life can be extended by cutting new tread into the tyre, but once it’s worn down to the 60-J line, the tyre needs to be replaced. 

7 steps to assemble a solid clip tyre using a tyre press

  1. Place the support plate on the tyre press and align the rim and cone on top of it. 
  2. Apply a generous amount of grease to the tyre rim and the inside of the tyre so the two surfaces can be fitted together smoothly. 
  3. Your solid clip tyre has a clip on one side that holds the tyre to the rim. Place the tyre over the rim and cone, ensuring the clip side is on the top. 
  4. Centre the cage on top of the tyre and ensure all parts are in alignment.
  5. Press down using the tyre press until the clip locks into place. Ensure it fits into the groove perfectly. 
  6. Release the pressure and remove the cone. 
  7. Wipe away any extra grease from the tyre and double-check that the clip is locked in tightly before mounting the tyre on your forklift. 

7 steps to disassemble a solid clip tyre

  1. Align the tyre over the support plate with the cage on top. 
  2. Press down with the tyre press to reveal the groove in the tyre rim.
  3. Place the disassembly ring in the groove to prevent the clip locking in place.
  4. Release the pressure and remove the tyre and support plate from the press.
  5. Flip the cage and centre the tyre above it, ensuring the clip side of the tyre is on top. 
  6. Centre two cones over the tyre, ensuring you are using the right cones for performing this function with your tyre press.
  7. Press down to remove the rim. 

Curious to discover more?

Curious to find out how to press a solid standard tyre or press-on tyre?

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