A frequent question we receive from aerial work platform (AWP) owners and fleet managers is whether they can order polyurethane-filled (solid) tires separately, without the wheel rim. The short and essential answer is no.
Unlike standard pneumatic tires or certain other solid tire types, polyurethane-filled tires are permanently integrated with the rim during manufacturing and must be supplied, shipped, and replaced as a complete wheel assembly (tire + rim). Here’s a clear breakdown of the key facts and technical reasons behind this requirement.
1. The Manufacturing Process: A Permanent, Chemical Bond
The defining characteristic of a polyurethane-filled tire is its construction:
-
Liquid polyurethane is injected into a tire casing that is already mounted on its dedicated rim.
-
During the curing process, the polyurethane expands and undergoes a chemical reaction, forming a permanent, unbreakable bond with both the inner liner of the tire and the surface of the rim.
This process transforms the tire and rim into a single, integrated unit. There is no mechanical fastening; it is a fusion at the material level.
2. The Critical Implication: Tire and Rim Are Inseparable
Due to this permanent bond, attempting to separate the tire from the rim will irreparably damage both components. The tire cannot be “unbolted” or demounted like a pneumatic tire. Therefore, from a practical and quality assurance standpoint, these products exist and function only as a pre-assembled unit.
3. How to Correctly Order and Specify Filled Tires
Understanding this integration is crucial for a smooth procurement process. When ordering replacement polyurethane-filled tires for your equipment (such as Bobcat skid-steers, scissor lifts, or boom lifts), you are ordering a complete wheel assembly.
To ensure a perfect fit and performance, please provide:
-
Equipment Make & Model: (e.g., Bobcat S185, Genie GS-1930)
-
Original Tire Size/Specification: Found on the tire sidewall.
-
Rim Specifications (If Known): Bolt pattern, center hole diameter, offset, and material. If unsure, our technical team can often determine this based on your equipment model.
Providing this information allows us to deliver an assembly that guarantees optimal performance, safety, and direct compatibility with your aerial work platform.
Conclusion: Ordering with Confidence
While the need to purchase the rim with the tire may initially seem like an added complexity, it is a non-negotiable aspect of polyurethane-filled tire technology. This integrated design is precisely what provides the exceptional puncture resistance, minimal downtime, and longevity that make these tires a valuable investment for demanding industrial applications.
Ready to order the correct assembly for your fleet? [Contact our technical sales team today] for a precise quote and expert support. We’re here to ensure you get the right part, right the first time.