Low-Pressure TIres Work Like Tracks

Low-Pressure TIres Work Like Tracks TRACTORS Accessories 17-6-25 An extra wide low pressure tire imported from Sweden exerts ground pressure comparable to rubber tracks on a Caterpillar Challenger tractor, says Trelleborg, the manufacturer. The bias-belted tire is designed to operate with pressure as low as 7 psi. It has a wide flat surface with no crown, and extra-deep lugs. Sizes are available for tractors, combines, implements, etc. "The bias-belted construction of these tires, combined with thick sidewalls, lets you reduce air pressure without collapsing the sidewalls," says distributor John Gay-ton, LaGrange, Ill. "Conventional radial tires are narrower and have a more rounded face, with a weaker and more flexible side-wall that causes the tractor to bounce up and down more." John Steinberger, Kenmore, N. Dak., was one of the first farmers in the U.S. to try Trelleborg tires. He mounted 25.6 by 38 tires on his Versatile 875 4-WD tractor and used it last spring to seed about 2,000 acres of wheat. He also did some plowing. "The tires greatly reduced wheel slippage and reduced soil compaction," says S teinberger. "I bought the tractor used for $35,000. The cheapest used Challenger I could find cost $75,000. The tractor was equipped with 20.8 by 38 dual tires that were worn out. "The new tires cost about twice as much as conventional radial tires. I spent about $12,000 whereas conventional radial tires would have cost me at least $8,800. How-ever, the new tires ride smooth with no power hop. They don't make deep tracks which eliminates the need to make another separate trip to work up tracks before seeding. They ride like car tires on the road, even in cold weather." Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Trelleborg Tire North America, 5311 South Ninth Ave., LaGrange, Ill. 60525 (ph 708 354-1717).

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