Tractors are heavier and more powerful than ever before, and as a result, issues associated with soil compaction are becoming an increasingly common problem.
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Despite this, many continue to run tires that only worsen the problem.
“It’s all about the footprint,” agricultural product manager, Titan International and Goodyear Farm Tires, Scott Sloan said.
“If you walk out into the field on ice skates, you’re going to sink right into the mud. With boots, you’re good to go.
“I don’t see many guys in the field on ice skates, but I do see a lot of narrow duals.
“If you’re not running between the rows post-emergence, there’s no reason for extreme flotation tyres.
“A study revealed about 37 percent of American growers frequently run between rows post emergence, making them good candidates for narrow duals.
“An estimated 75% of MFWD tractors still come out with narrow duals.
“Low sidewall technology is gaining traction in the Australian market with a number already fitted to MFWD tractors and self-propelled sprayers.
“In addition to spreading far less pressure over a much wider footprint, causing less soil compaction, LSW technology provides many other benefits.
“LSW technology features a larger wheel diameter and smaller sidewall than a conventional tire.
“This decreases the likelihood of sidewall recoil, drastically improves ride stability, and reduces power hop and road lope.”
