Dave Dineen, 4x4 and SUV-tyre specialist, advises: 鈥渢yre choice is essential for many different reasons, including environmental impact. As farmers you are used to changing tractor tyres for the conditions of service and the same methodology should be applied when selecting 4x4 tyres. Standard road-going tyres will struggle to grip off-road and are likely to slip and slide, risking damage to both vehicle and land.鈥欌��
Taking care of your tyres and noticing anything out of the ordinary is key to preserving the life of your tyres and more importantly you and your vehicle.
- Always check your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure 鈥� once per week is recommended and the best time to carry out the check is when the tyres are cold.
- Make sure you regularly check for foreign objects such as stones in the tread blocks. If you allow them to become embedded, they may work into the casing and cause the tyre to deflate.
- Check for uneven wear of your tyre as this could indicate a problem with the steering geometry of your vehicle. Symptoms of uneven wear can accompany anomalies such as the vehicle pulling to one side.
- When driving off road, it is very important to check your tyres for bulges and cuts.
Fitting the correct tyre is critical
Choosing a market-leading 4x4 manufacturer for your tyres gives confidence that the tyre has been designed and tested to perform in all weather conditions and terrains.
For example, the General Tire鈥檚 Grabber AT3 All-Terrain pattern allows precise steering, ensuring short braking distances on and off road. With its innovative pattern design the tyre achieves off-road grip through gripping edges that interlock with loose surfaces. The deep tread provides additional grip when the vehicle is travelling over muddy roads or slippery grassland.
The BFGoodrich KO2 T/A All-Terrain tyre offers aggressive traction for on- and off-road driving. Designed with a robust sidewall and staggered shoulder blocks for great manoeuvrability in soft soil and deep snow.
Both patterns carry the 3PMSF (3 Peak Mountain Snowflake) symbol giving peace of mind you are safe in winter and snowy conditions.
Find out how to access your NFU member discount on 4x4 tyres.