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How to Properly Store and Handle Agricultural and Off-Road Tires
Learn how to properly store and handle agricultural and off-road tires, including recommended storage conditions, handling precautions and ways to help prevent tire damage
Why Proper Tire Storage Matters
Proper storage and handling help protect agricultural and off-road tires from unnecessary damage. Exposure to sunlight, chemicals, extreme heat and improper handling can affect tire condition, while incorrect storage can place unnecessary stress on tires and their components.
Whether you're storing agricultural tires between seasons or handling large off-road tires, following the appropriate precautions can help maintain tire condition until they're ready for use.
How Should Agricultural and Off-Road Tires Be Stored?
Proper tire storage starts with choosing the right environment. Agricultural and off-road tires should be stored in a clean, dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat. Whenever possible, store tires indoors to help protect them from prolonged exposure to the elements.
Recommended Storage Conditions
To help protect tires during storage:
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Choose a clean, dry, well-ventilated location. Keep tires away from direct sunlight and adverse weather whenever possible.
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Avoid heat and ozone sources. Store tires away from electric motors, transformers, welding equipment and other potential ozone sources.
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Keep tires away from chemicals. Avoid contact with solvents, hydrocarbons and other substances that could damage rubber.
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Protect tires from physical damage. Keep them away from sharp or pointed objects that could puncture or damage the rubber.
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Maintain appropriate fire precautions. Keep tires away from flames, sparks and other ignition sources.
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Clean tires before storage. Remove accumulated soil, debris and other materials before placing agricultural tires into long-term storage.
Agricultural Tire Storage: Additional Precautions
Agricultural tires require additional precautions during storage to help prevent deformation and protect their components. Storage requirements may differ depending on whether tires are mounted on wheels or stored separately.
Prevent Tire Deformation
Store agricultural tires in a position that helps preserve their shape and prevents unnecessary stress on the casing. Avoid storage conditions that could cause prolonged deformation.
Storing Tires Without Wheels
Agricultural tires that are not mounted on wheels can be stored in stacks or vertically. If tires are stored vertically for an extended period, rotate them periodically to help prevent deformation.
Storing Tires Mounted on Wheels
When storing agricultural tires mounted on wheels:
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Follow Michelin's recommended inflation pressure for storage.
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Check tire pressure periodically during extended storage.
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Before returning tires to service, adjust inflation pressure according to the applicable load and operating conditions.
Storing Inner Tubes
Store agricultural tire inner tubes in conditions that protect them from deformation and damage. Keep them away from sharp objects and other potential sources of deterioration.
Off-Road Tire Storage and Handling Precautions
Off-road tires require special care during handling because improper lifting and transportation can cause irreparable damage to the tire beads. Use appropriate equipment and handling techniques to protect tires from damage.
Safe Tire Handling Practices
When moving or lifting large off-road tires, follow these precautions:
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Crane lifting: Never lift a tire directly with a crane hook. Use flat lifting straps instead of metal slings or chains.
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Forklift handling: Pick up tires from underneath the tread, not by the beads, to avoid damaging these critical areas.
Storing Off-Road Tire Accessories
Keep tire accessories in their original packaging and place them on surfaces free from hazards that could cause cuts, tears or punctures.
Explore More Tire Resources
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