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Tractor Tire Buying Guide

Mar. 24 2023 Acessory Buying Guide By Uvalco Powersports & Equipment

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Tractors need to be able to get traction in order to work effectively, and the best way to ensure that you are getting enough traction is by having the right tires. However, there is a surprising amount of variety when it comes to tractor tires, and picking the correct ones can be difficult. That is why Uvalco Powersports & Equipment created this tractor tire buying guide. 

The Tire Categories

There are several different types of tractor tires, and each is specialized for a particular type of work. 

  • R-1 tires are often referred to as agricultural tires. They feature traction-grabbing lugs set at deep angles for better grip. They are the default choice for farming on dry land. 
  • R-2 tires have increased tread depth for improved grip on slick surfaces. They are used in places like rice paddies, where farmers expect to encounter a lot of wet ground. 
  • R-3 tires, also called turf tires, provide decent traction on loose terrains, like gravel and sand, and have the lowest impact on the ground. They are considered general-purpose tires, suitable for lawn and yard work. 
  • R-4 tires are made with interwoven tread and lug design, which gives them both impressive traction and low ground impact. This makes them suitable for industrial projects, though be warned that these tires tend to be a bit bigger and may not fit onto all tractor models.

Using Different Tires On The Tractor

In some cases, you may choose to have one set of tires for the front and another set for the rear. If you do this, we recommend that the front set be ribbed for better grip. F-1 tires, or single rib tires, offer better steering control, while F-2 tires (which have three ribs) will decrease your lateral side-slip. If you are towing large loads on hard terrain, you can use F-2M tires, which have four ribs. 

Bias Ply or Radial

You will also have to decide if you want bias ply or radial tires. Bias ply tires have sturdier sidewalls, meaning less money spent on maintenance and replacement. On the other hand, radial tires offer a smoother ride and have less impact on the soil. Pick whichever works best for your needs. 

The Load Rating

You should also keep the load rating in mind. The load rating correlates to the maximum tire pressure in PSI. One star means a maximum of 18 PSI, two stars mean a maximum of 24 PSI, and three stars mean a maximum of 30 PSI. If you try to ignore the load rating, your tractor’s tires won’t work properly, reducing overall efficiency. 

To view our selection of tractor models, visit Uvalco Powersports & Equipment at our dealerships in Uvalde and Bandera, Texas. We also offer parts, financing, and servicing, so come to us for all your tractor needs. We are proud to serve the state of Texas, including communities like San Antonio.