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SKID STEER Tire Change

SKID STEER Tire Change

Changing skid steer tires can be a challenging task due to their thick bead, weight, and non-compliance. The Coats Maxx 80 Tire Changer simplifies this process with expert techniques and advanced features. This guide translates the video into a comprehensive, step-by-step article for those who prefer written instructions.

Introduction to Skid Steer Tire Changing

Skid steer tires are known for their durability and heavy-duty performance, but this makes them difficult to replace. The Coats Maxx 80 Tire Changer is specifically designed to handle these tough assemblies safely and efficiently. This guide covers every aspect of changing a skid steer tire, from initial inspection to mounting the tire back onto the wheel.

Step 1: Initial Tire Inspection

Before starting, inspect the tire and wheel to ensure they’re safe to work with:

  • Remove any debris, such as rocks or dirt, from the tire.
  • Check for damage that could compromise the process.
  • Ensure the tire is clean and ready for service.

Release the pressure from the tire:

  • Remove the valve core to let out all the air.
  • Use a wire or similar tool to clear debris from the valve stem.

Step 2: Breaking the Bead

The thick bead of a skid steer tire requires careful attention:

  1. Use the side-mounted bead loosener on the Coats Maxx 80.
  2. Apply small, gradual pressure to avoid damaging the tire or wheel.
  3. Liberally apply paste lube to the bead and wheel to ease the process.

Break the bead on both sides of the tire and ensure adequate lubrication is applied to the drop center of the wheel.

Step 3: Mounting the Tire onto the Machine

Given the weight of skid steer tires (often exceeding 140 lbs), use the wheel lift on the Coats Maxx 80 to safely position the tire on the machine. Proper clamping is essential:

  • Clamp the wheel from the outside in for maximum grip. Avoid clamping from the inside out, as it can risk the jaws slipping.
  • Use the Robo Arm to press the tire into place, ensuring it is securely held for the de-mounting process.

Step 4: De-Mounting the Tire

Top Bead Removal

  • Adjust the duck head tool for the tire size.
  • Use the Robo Arm to press the tire down, creating space for the tool to lift the bead.
  • Apply additional lubrication to make the process smoother.
  • Rotate the wheel while using the Robo Arm and duck head to remove the top bead.

Bottom Bead Removal

  • Use the hook on the Robo Arm to hold the bottom bead in the drop center of the wheel.
  • Insert the tire bar and lift the bead over the duck head.
  • Rotate the wheel to fully remove the bottom bead.

Step 5: Mounting the New Tire

Preparation

  • Ensure the tire is mounted in the correct direction, as skid steer tires are often directional.
  • Liberally apply lubrication to both tire beads and the drop center of the wheel.

Mounting the Bottom Bead

  • Position the tire over the rim and align it with the duck head tool.
  • Use the Robo Arm to assist with positioning and press the bead into the drop center.
  • Rotate the wheel to mount the bottom bead.

Mounting the Top Bead

  • This step requires precision and additional lubrication.
  • Use the Robo Arm and Robo Roller to press the top bead into the drop center.
  • Gradually rotate the wheel, making adjustments to keep the bead aligned with the duck head tool.
  • Relieve pressure from the Robo Arm as the tire approaches the final position to prevent excessive tension.

Final Steps

  • Unlock the duck head tool and release the clamping jaws.
  • Use the wheel lift to safely remove the tire and lower it to the ground.
  • Inspect the tire and wheel assembly to ensure the bead is properly seated and the tire is securely mounted.

Coats Maxx 80 Makes It Easy

Changing skid steer tires can be labor-intensive, but with the Coats Maxx 80 Tire Changer, the process becomes safer and more efficient. Key features like the Robo Arm, Robo Roller, and wheel lift make it possible to handle even the heaviest assemblies with ease.