Tire Wear and Replacement on Caterpillar 980G Series 2 Loader

[MikePhua]

Maintaining proper tire condition is crucial for the performance and safety of heavy equipment like the Caterpillar 980G series 2 loader. Operators often face situations where tire treads wear unevenly or blowouts occur, raising concerns about machine damage when tires of varying tread depths are installed simultaneously.
Impact of Mixing New and Worn Tires

• Operating a loader with three new tires and one significantly worn tire (with tread remaining at around 5%) can cause uneven traction.
  
• Unequal tire tread depths produce differential rolling diameters, potentially stressing the drivetrain.
  
• This imbalance may increase the risk of drivetrain component wear, including axles, differentials, and transmissions.
  
• Stability and handling may be compromised, especially in slippery or uneven terrain, reducing operator control.
  
• Machine components such as wheel motors and final drives might experience additional strain attempting to compensate for traction discrepancies.
  

Recommendations

• Ideally, replace tires in pairs or sets to maintain uniform tread depth and rolling diameter.
  
• If only one tire is replaced, try to position it opposite or diagonally to a similarly new tire to even out traction forces.
  
• Maintain proper inflation pressures to counteract uneven wear and ensure optimal performance.
  
• Regularly rotate tires when possible to promote even tread wear across all units.
  
• Schedule frequent drivetrain inspections for early signs of wear or damage if mixing tire conditions is unavoidable.
  

Technical Terms Explained

• Tread Depth: The measurement of tire groove depth, vital for traction and safety.
  
• Drivetrain: The components transmitting power from the engine to the wheels.
  
• Final Drive: The gear assembly within the drive axle providing torque multiplication.
  
• Rolling Diameter: Effective tire diameter influencing vehicle speed and mechanical stress.
  
• Differential: Mechanism allowing wheels on the same axle to rotate at different speeds.
  

Practical Experience
An experienced loader operator shared a story where running mismatched tires led to premature differential failures, incurring expensive repairs. After switching to matched sets, the machine operated more smoothly, and major drivetrain repairs were avoided.
Summary
Operating a Caterpillar 980G loader with one worn tire and three new tires can lead to uneven traction and increased mechanical stress, risking drivetrain damage and reduced handling. For best results and machine longevity, replace tires in pairs or matched sets, monitor tire pressure, and conduct routine drivetrain checks. Following these guidelines helps maintain performance and safety while avoiding costly repairs.