Tire Ply Ratings

[71_Bronco 1,072]

in looking at new tires for my Lawn Ranger, I came across some that are only available in 4 ply, and some that are only available in 2 ply.

 

I understand the difference between the 2 (construction, stiffness, puncture resistance, psi capability, weight rating).

 

For a light-weight, fun putting tractor, is ply rating really an issue? Or should I just get the 4 ply tires for the extra strength just cause?

[ebinmaine 70,718]

There are those who run 2 ply on purpose. 

Better ride. A little more forgiving. Easier to mount. Quite possibly better traction as well because of the tire being able to flex more. 

 

I run 4 ply on the Cinnamon Horse because it's our heavy load mover. Otherwise 2 would be fine. 

 

 

[JAinVA 4,629]

Eric covered all the reasons for the different uses well.The Lawn Rangers are relatively light compared to other horses.I  would go with 2ply for most uses.JMHO,JAinVA

[RandyLittrell 3,894]

2 ply will do you just fine, Eric covered the bases on reasons. 

 

 

 

Randy

[953 nut 57,885]

9 hours ago, 71_Bronco said:

some that are only available in 4 ply, and some that are only available in 2 ply.

Two ply will do the job, but if you have a tread pattern you want and it is only available in four ply there is no reason to avoid it.

[pfrederi 18,328]

The sidewall markings are sometimes  two or four ply "Rated"   If you cut one open they may or may not have 4 plies....

[71_Bronco 1,072]

I think i made up my mind (finally) and have settled on the OTR "Lawn Trac" tires. They are only available in 18×8.50-8's and 4 ply rated. I know they arent as wide as the Carlisle "super lugs" (18×9.50-8), but i like the look of the tread better on these.

 

Plus, compared to the stock tires (4.8-8 tires), these are going to be about 2 times as wide.

 

I did read some reviews on amazon that some people said they are stiffer due to the 4 ply vs 2 ply, and that the ride was a bit more bumpy.