Skidder Tires: Top 5 Tips for Loggers

Loggers need to know a lot about skidder tires, as they are one of the most important pieces of equipment on a logging crew. Here are some of the most important things that loggers need to know about skidder tires:

1. Tires need to be properly inflated: Depending on size, manufacture and application pressure selection which should be consulted by an authorized forestry tire dealer will range from 35 to 55 psi and should be checked regularly.
2. Proper tire selection: The right selection will depend on the type of equipment, operation and terrain they will be operating in / on. For this please consult with an authorized forestry tire dealer.
3. Proper hardware and wheel selection with dual wheel (ISFD/ OSD) / tire configurations: Bolt holes should be matching in size if not the smaller needs to be drilled out to match the larger. All grade 8 hardware should be utilized with 2 flat washers, 1 lock washer along with corresponding bolt and nut. All dual wheels should include gussets reinforcing the dual plate. Dual size configuration should be approved by OEM. ISFD stands for inside flush dual.
4. Factory aftermarket wheels are recommended utilizing a 1.25” flat center disc set inside a belly band, welded into the rim shell.
5. Tires should be fitted to proper wheel fitment:
   

   Tire Size	Corresponding wheel size
   16.9×30	30×15
   18.4×26	26×16
   18.4×30	30×16
   18.4×34	34×16
   18.4×38	38×16
   23.1×26	26×20
   28Lx26	26×25
   24.5×32	32×21
   30.5×32	32×27
   35.5×32	32×31
   67×34.00-25	25×30
   67×34.00-26	26×30
   66×43.00-26	26×36
   66×43.00-25	25×36
   73×44.00-32	32×36
   78×45.00-32	32×41
   73×50.00-32	32×44
   68×60.00-32	32×49

Contact Austin Hale: 443-602-6636 today for a free consultation to ensure you’re getting the most out of your skidder tires. He’ll meet you in the woods!