Front versus rear agricultural tyre classifications
- Front steering tyres: Feature multi-rib (F-2) or single-rib tread patterns designed to maintain directional stability, resist side slippage, and provide smooth road handling.
- Rear traction tyres: Utilize deep angled chevron lugs (R-1 or R-1W tread patterns) to generate maximum traction in loose soil, mud, and dry arable fields.
- Flotation and radial tyres: Offer wider footprints that distribute heavy tractor weight over larger surface areas, significantly reducing subsoil compaction.
Understanding tyre size designations and ply ratings
- Size designations (e.g., 12.4-28, 13.6-28, 14.9-28): The first number indicates tyre cross-section width in inches, and the second indicates rim diameter in inches.
- Ply Rating (PR): Indicates the load-carrying capacity of the tyre casing; 8 PR or 12 PR tyres are standard for heavy commercial and rotavator operations.
- Tread depth and lug angle: Typically set at 45 or 23 degrees to ensure effective self-cleaning of mud during wet field puddling.
Essential tyre maintenance and pressure guidelines
Always maintain correct tyre inflation pressure as specified in the manufacturer manual—generally lower pressure (12 to 16 PSI) for field traction and higher pressure (20 to 24 PSI) for paved road haulage. In heavy drawbar tillage, liquid ballasting (water filling the inner tube up to 75% capacity) can be employed to add axle weight and eliminate wheel slip.
Official source
Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.
Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS Agricultural Tyres) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What causes rapid tyre wear on agricultural tractors?
Incorrect inflation pressure (under-inflation or over-inflation), frequent high-speed road travel on dry asphalt with aggressive field lugs, and excessive wheel slippage cause rapid tyre wear.
What is the benefit of water ballasting in tractor tyres?
Water ballasting fills up to 75% of the rear tyre tube with water, adding axle weight that improves traction and reduces wheel slippage during heavy ploughing without requiring cast-iron wheel weights.
How do I know when my tractor rear tyres need replacement?
Replace tyres when lug tread depth wears down below 20% of original height, or when deep cracks, sidewall bulges, or cord separation become visible.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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