How to prepare farm tires for winter conditions

Winter-proof your farm tires with these tips

As winter approaches, farmers must prepare for cold temperatures and challenging conditions. Tire maintenance is key to ensuring your equipment stays operational.  

“Livestock still needs to be fed. In some areas, snow needs to be moved, or fieldwork finished,” said Greg Jones, senior manager of global field engineering, Firestone Ag. “Regardless of where you live, winter brings challenges. In the north, it snows. In the south, it rains. You need your tires to keep up throughout the season.”

Firestone provides these essential winter tire tips.

• Tip 1: Maintain Tire Pressure 

Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop. Regularly check and adjust your tire pressure to avoid overinflation or underinflation, both of which can damage tires and reduce efficiency.

• Tip 2: Be Careful on Frozen Ground

Driving over rough, frozen terrain can puncture your tires. Take care to avoid icy or frozen mud and stubble. If possible, smooth out the driving paths to protect your tires.

• Tip 3: Store Tires Properly

If your equipment will be idle over winter, store it inside to prevent tire damage. Cold weather can make rubber brittle, leading to cracks. Adjust tire pressure to prevent air loss during storage.

• Tip 4: Optimize Tires for Winter Work

Winter conditions require extra traction. Adjust tire pressure to distribute weight evenly, and consider adding weight to your equipment or using tire chains to improve grip on snow and ice.

Photo Credit: freepik-upklyak