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Tire Types and Sizes
For the Bobcat 843 skid steer loader, the common tire size is 12x16.5, which indicates a 12-inch tread width fitting a 16.5-inch rim. Typical ply ratings for these tires range from 10 to 12, where the ply rating denotes tire strength and resistance to punctures and wear.
Two main tire types are popular for skid steers:
Choosing the right tires for a Bobcat 843 skid steer involves balancing cost, durability, and application requirements. Pneumatic tires like Galaxy Beefy Baby offer economical and versatile solutions for most construction tasks, while solid no-flat tires provide exceptional durability where debris is an issue. By understanding tire sizes, types, and ply ratings, operators can optimize machine performance, safety, and lifespan with appropriate tire selections and maintenance.
For the Bobcat 843 skid steer loader, the common tire size is 12x16.5, which indicates a 12-inch tread width fitting a 16.5-inch rim. Typical ply ratings for these tires range from 10 to 12, where the ply rating denotes tire strength and resistance to punctures and wear.
Two main tire types are popular for skid steers:
- Pneumatic Air-Filled Tires
These provide a comfortable ride, better traction on soft and uneven surfaces, and are generally less expensive upfront. Brands like Galaxy Beefy Baby or Solidex offer 10- to 12-ply pneumatic tires around $125 each when shopped thoroughly.
Pneumatic tires can be biased or radial. Radials have better cut resistance, traction on hard surfaces, and longer life compared to bias tires but usually cost more.
- Solid No-Flat Tires
Solid tires, such as the Carlisle Ultra Guard, are made of extra-tough rubber and do not require air inflation. They are ideal for applications with sharp debris, scrapyards, or recycling where punctures are frequent. These tires cost significantly more, sometimes $295 or more per tire but save downtime and replacement costs.
- Online marketplaces like eBay offer lower cost options but vary in service quality and warranty.
- Specialty tire dealers and industrial suppliers provide better customer support and often have OEM or premium tires in stock.
- Buying a full set of four tires at once can yield cost savings and ensure balanced performance across all wheels.
- For general construction, dirt, and landscaping work, pneumatic 12x16.5, 10- to 12-ply tires like Galaxy or Solidex are cost-effective and reliable.
- For harsh environments with high risks of punctures, invest in solid no-flat tires like Carlisle Ultra Guards for durability and reduced maintenance.
- Regularly inspect tire wear and rotate tires when possible to extend their lifespan.
- Consider terrain and typical job site conditions to select tread patterns best suited for traction, wear resistance, and comfort.
- Ply Rating: Number indicating tire strength and durability; higher ply tires resist cuts and punctures better.
- Radial Tire: Tire with cord plies arranged at 90 degrees to the direction of travel, offering improved tread life and fuel economy.
- Bias Tire: Tire with cord plies diagonally crossing, generally less expensive but wear faster than radials.
- Solid Tire: Tire made of solid rubber, immune to flats, with longer life in rough terrain but harsher ride.
- Tread Pattern: Design of grooves and lugs on the tire surface affecting traction and wear rate.
Choosing the right tires for a Bobcat 843 skid steer involves balancing cost, durability, and application requirements. Pneumatic tires like Galaxy Beefy Baby offer economical and versatile solutions for most construction tasks, while solid no-flat tires provide exceptional durability where debris is an issue. By understanding tire sizes, types, and ply ratings, operators can optimize machine performance, safety, and lifespan with appropriate tire selections and maintenance.
