With harvest just around the corner, tyre manufacturer Michelin has published a pre-harvest tyre check that farmers and contractors should undertake before activities get under way.

Taking combine harvesters as the model, the tyre manufacturer is advising operators to check for accidental damage left over from last year. This includes bulges, cuts and tears, as well as tread and sidewall damage down to the wheel rim.

Damage left unchecked can result in tyre failure and harvest interruptions when things are busy.

The list includes a check for flat spots caused by deflation that, if not corrected, Michelin says could lead to vibrations when travelling on the road.

The solution

Interestingly, the firm says that warming tyres in the sunlight will help the casing to return to its normal shape.

It added that operators can correct the problem by marking the affected area and locating the machine in direct sunlight.

Leaving other sections of the tyre deflated, the advice is to inflate the affected tyres above the standard operating pressure – ensuring the manufacturer’s maximum inflation pressure is not exceeded – and leave them warming in the sun’s heat for a couple of hours.

Next up, tyre pressures should be checked and set to manufacturers' recommendations.

If replacing, it’s important that the correct tyre choice is made. Operators should look into tyre technology that limits soil compaction and disturbance while offering comfort, manoeuvrability and load capacity.

Michelin stressed the need for avoiding kerbing or driving into potholes

Having greater contact with the ground, the recommendation is that greater care is taken when choosing rear tyres that can improve the efficiency of a combine harvester.

Other tips for operators include the discipline of undertaking regular tyre inspections that help spot cuts and tears as they appear and limit machine downtime.

Michelin stressed the need for avoiding kerbing or driving into potholes in order to maintain wheel alignment and prolong tyre life. It also advises to accelerate slowly and brake progressively in order to maximise tyre life.