K-Series Tire Guide AEXQ0403

Title C AT E R P I L L A R ®
MOTOR GRADERS
K-SERIES
SELECTION
POCKET
GUIDE
Table
Title of Contents
Tire Selection, Application and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Tire Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Tire Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Tire Strength . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Tread Class. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Traction Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Rock Tires. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
All-Season Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Tire Load Rating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Tire Load Capacities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Tire Selection Worksheet – Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Tire Selection Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
2
Tire Selection, Application
and Maintenance
Proper tire selection, application and maintenance are some
of the most important factors in earthmoving economics.
Motor grader performance depends heavily on selecting
the right tire for the job.
Off-the-road tires must operate under a wide variety
of conditions ranging from dry loose dirt to wet shot rock.
Speed conditions for motor graders vary from less than
1 km/h to 58 km/h (0.5 mph to 36 mph). Gradients vary from
75% favorable to 30% adverse. Climatic conditions, operator
skills and maintenance practices all have a major effect
on tire performance and tire life.
Although specific tires have proven to be more acceptable
in one application versus another, no one tire can meet all
requirements on any one machine. A wide variety of tread
and casing designs are available due to the many differences
in the tire requirements for motor graders. The optimum tire
for a specific machine on a given job should be a joint
decision between the customer, salesperson and tire
supplier. Several tire manufacturers have technical and
application representatives in the field to help with
tire selection.
3
Tire Construction
The pneumatic tire is essentially a flexible pressure vessel utilizing structural
members (nylon, steel cable, etc.) to contain the hoop tension resulting from
the inflation pressure. Rubber is utilized as a protective coating and sealant
over the structural members and makes up the tread pattern. This tread
pattern provides the wear material at the tire/ground interface.
Two distinct tire constructions are approved on Caterpillar K-Series motor
graders – BIAS PLY and RADIAL PLY. The difference between these two
types of tires lies in the inner casing of the tire.
Bias ply
• Manufactured with multiple nylon plies
• 1 to 4 bead bundles are used on each side
• Plies run at an acute angle to the centerline
• Fabric or steel breakers added under tread for reinforcement/
bruise resistance
Radial ply
• Single ply of high-strength steel cords run at 90-degree angle to
tread centerline
• High ply turn-up around bead strengthens sidewall and improves steering
response
• 2 to 6 steel belts placed under tread
Bias vs. Radial – Performance
Differences in the construction of bias and radial tires cause them to
exhibit different performance characteristics. Both types of tires have their
place in the motor grader industry. Choosing the right one for the intended
application will reduce the chances of tire failure, and will enhance
machine performance.
Bias Ply Advantages Radial Tire Advantages
• Better lateral stability due to • More resistance to heat buildup
multiple-ply sidewall due to flexible casing
• Better sidewall penetration • Less cutting damage, impact in
characteristics rocky conditions due to flexibility
• Lower cost (vs. comparable size • More resistance to puncture
radial tire) due to more steel in the tread
• Better traction on most types
of surfaces
Bias Ply Radial Ply
4
Tire Size
The main tire manufacturers – Michelin, Goodyear, and Bridgestone-
Firestone – offer a wide range of tire sizes for the K-Series motor graders.
From the 13.00-24 (13.00R24) size to the 17.5-25 (17.5R25) size, each motor
grader can be fitted with the proper tire for the intended application.
A tire’s nomenclature corresponds to its size. There are two properties
of the tire referred to in its size description. The first number corresponds
to the approximate cross-sectional width of the tire. The second number
refers to the rim diameter. For example, a 14.00-24 tire has a width of 14 in.
and a rim diameter of 24 in. The dash between the two numbers corresponds
to a bias-ply tire. An “R” between the 14.00 and 24 signifies a radial-ply tire.
The various tire sizes available for each motor grader are summarized below.
Motor Grader Model Tire Sizes Available

120K (13.00-24) 13.00R24
(14.00-24) 14.00R24
(17.5-25) 17.5R25
12K (13.00-24) 13.00R24
(14.00-24) 14.00R24
(17.5-25) 17.5R25
140K (14.00-24) 14.00R24
(17.5-25) 17.5R25
160K (14.00-24) 14.00R24
(17.5-25) 17.5R25
Note: Boldface denotes minimum tire size. Machine weight

should determine tire size selection.
5
Tire Size (cont’d)
All K-Series motor graders have conventional, or narrow, base tires
as the minimum size tire. Each model has a wide-base tire available as an
option. Narrow and wide-base tires are distinguished by their “H/S ratio,”
or tire aspect ratio. Conventional base tires have an “H/S” ratio of
approximately 1.00. The section width, given in inches, is a whole number.
For example, 14.00-24 and 14.00R24 are both conventional-base tires. With
wide-base tires, the “H/S” ratio is less than 1.00 – typically 0.80. The
section width, given in inches, is a whole number followed by a fraction.
Examples of wide-base tires include 17.5-25 and 17.5R25.
H
H
S S
H 1.00 H 0.9
S S
Narrow base tire Wide base tire

Wide-base tires offer many advantages over narrow-base tires. Their use
on motor graders continues to increase as customers realize the benefits
associated with wide-base tires.
Advantages of wide-base tires.
• Increase flotation (reduced ground pressure) due to wider base
• Better traction due to more lugs touching surface
• Better machine handling in turns
• Increased load-carrying capability
6
Tire Strength
The overall strength of a tire is determined by its casing strength. Ply rating
is used as an index of this strength. Bias and radial tires have different
ply-rating systems. Bias tires use a numeric system, while radial tires
are categorized based on a “star” rating.
For example, a 16-ply bias tire has a higher casing strength than a
12-ply tire, and a “two-star” radial tire has a higher casing strength than
a ”one-star” tire. Various ply ratings are offered on the tires for the
K-Series motor graders.
Motor Grader Bias Tire Radial Tire

Model Ply Ratings Strength Index
120K 10,12,14,16 *
12K 10,12,14,16 *
140K 12,14,16 *
160K 12,14,16 *
A higher-ply tire offers many performance and durability advantages. For a

given tire size and tread pattern, a higher-ply tire will allow for larger loads.
Other advantages include increased puncture resistance, and potentially
longer service life. Offering various ply ratings allows customers to choose
not only the proper tire, but the proper tire strength, to meet the application.
7
Tread Class
A tire’s tread is the part of the tire that touches the ground. It is the
wearing part of the tire, transmitting the machine weight to the ground.
The tread also provides traction and flotation for the machine.
Motor graders are used in a variety of applications, from road maintenance
to road construction to snow removal. The versatility of the motor grader
is unmatched in the construction industry. With this versatility comes
the need for a wide range of tire tread classes to match the application.
Three types of treads are available on tires used on K-Series graders.
The major treads are distinguished by their tread depth. The different
treads are identified using an alphanumeric code system standardized
by the tire industry. The letter refers to the type of service (G = grader,
L = loader/dozer), and the number refers to the actual tread. A larger
number corresponds to a deeper tread. Grader (G) and Loader/Dozer (L)
tread classes are available on K-Series graders.
Tread Types
Traction G-2/L-2
Rock –
Normal Tread G-3/L-3
Deep Tread G-4/L-4
Extra Deep Tread L-5
All-Season G-2
8
Traction Tires
The traction tire is the most commonly used tread class on motor graders.
As the name indicates, traction tires contain a tread pattern that helps
decrease slip between the machine and the ground. Traction tires
are characterized by their directional tread pattern and deep lugs.
This directional tread pattern allows the tires to be self-cleaning, an
important feature in muddy applications. A wide selection of traction
tires are offered on K-Series motor graders.
9
Traction Tires (cont’d)
Goodyear Bias
SGG-2A SGL D/L 2A

(G-2) (G-2)
13.00-24 10PR 17.5-25 12PR
13.00-24 12PR
14.00-24 12PR
14.00-24 16PR
Bridgestone/Firestone Bias
SGG/SGG LD SGG RB
(L-2) (G-2)
17.5-25 12PR 13.00-24 10PR
17.5-25 16PR 13.00-24 12PR
14.00-24 10PR
14.00-24 12PR
14.00-24 16PR
Michelin Radial
XGLA2
(G-2)
13.00R24 1*
14.00R24 1*
*Tire availability varies by region.
10
Rock Tires
Rock tires, like traction tires, are used widely on motor graders. These tires,
with their characteristic non-directional, deep tread-design, provide good
wear and resistance to rock damage. Three types of rock tread classes
are offered, depending on the severity of the underfoot conditions.
Normal tread rock tires, numerically denoted by a “3,” are used in normal
rocky applications. Deep tread rock tires, denoted by a “4,” have a 50%
deeper tread than normal tread rock tires. They provide longer tread life
and superior rock damage protection compared to standard-depth rock
tires. Extra deep tread rock tires, denoted with a “5,” have a 250% deeper
tread than standard G-3/L-3 rock tires. They provide the most protection
against rock damage and wear, but are usually warranted in severe
applications only.
Tread Depths for Rock Tires

N = Normal (Rock) G-3, L-3
D1 = N ⫻ 1.5 (Deep Tread Rock) G-4, L-4
D2 = N ⫻ 2.5 (Extra Deep Tread Rock) L-5
Tread class relationships apply only within a tire manufacturer.
11
Rock Tires (cont’d)
Bridgestone/Firestone Bias
SRG/SRG LD
(L-3)
17.5-25 12PR
12
All-Season Tires
Use of all-season tires on K-Series motor graders is rapidly increasing.
These tires, although classified as traction tires by their tread class, provide
good performance in a variety of conditions/applications. The unique tread
pattern offers traction in snow and ice and minimal stone retention in rocky
soils. In addition, the special groove shape makes the all-season tire self-
cleaning in mud. The tread design allows all-season tires to work effectively
without the use of chains, which can be expensive and dangerous.
Although more expensive than conventional traction and rock tires,
all-season tires can pay for themselves very quickly when used in the
right applications.
Bridgestone/Firestone Radial
VSW
(G-2)
14.00R24 1*
13
Tire Load Rating
A tire’s load capacity is dependent on the inflation pressure. The nominal
load capacity and pressure recommendations are provided by the tire
manufacturer. Following the tire loading guidelines helps the motor grader
better perform its intended function. Overloading a tire can result in poor
motor grader performance and even puncture, or “blowout” of the tire.
The proper tires for a specific motor grader can be selected only after the
total machine operating weight is computed. This weight should include
any field-installed attachments such as snow wings and front-mounted
plows. A tire whose load rating exceeds the maximum single tire load on
the machine must then be chosen. Therefore,a tire that initially does not
meet load requirements may actually be satisfactory if a higher ply rating
is chosen.
A sample calculation is provided on pages 18 and 19, to help you understand
how to determine the tire(s) appropriate for your machine and application.
Following the example are two copies of a blank worksheet for your use.
You may want to enlarge these pages on a photocopier for extra room on
your worksheet and to preserve a blank copy for later use.
Finally, you will want to refer to the Tire Load Capacity table on page 17.
14
Tire Load Capacities
Tire Load Capacity* (kg)
Bridgestone
Tire Designation Goodyear Michelin
Firestone
13.00-24 12PR 2725 — —
13.00R24 1 Star 3000 3000 2900
14.00-24 10PR 2800 — —
14.00-24 12PR 3075 3075 —
14.00-24 14PR 3450 — —
14.00-24 16PR 3650 — —
14.00R24 1 Star 3650 3650 3550
17.5-25 12PR 2900 2900 —
17.5-25 16PR 3350 3350 —
17.5R25 1 Star 3650 3650 3650
**All ratings represent the nominal load capacity of a single tire. These ratings are
specified by the tire manufacturer. Questions regarding the load ratings should be
directed to the local tire supplier. The ratings are for grader application only and
are given at nominal inflation pressure.
15
Tire Selection Worksheet – Example
140K motor grader
Front Blade and Ripper attachments
DIAGRAM: Tire positions – top view

1 2 5
Direction of machine motion
3 4 6
A Machine information (reference Specalog)

Base operating weight (kg) 1a = 15 040
Base operating weight split to rear (%) 2a = 0.725
Base operating weight split to front (%) 3a = 0.275
B Weight on rear tire before
attachments (kg) 1b = (1a) ⫻ (2a) / 4 = 2726
Tires 1, 2, 3, 4
Weight on front tire before
attachments (kg) 2b = (1a) ⫻ (3a) / 2 = 2068
Tires 5, 6
C (on next page)
D Sum of attachment weights per tire
Tire 1 (kg) total of all 1d = 241
E Tire 1 (kg) 1e = (1b) + (1d) = 2967
Tire 2 (kg) 2e = (1b) + (2d) = 2967
Tire 3 (kg) 3e = (1b) + (3d) = 2967
Tire 4 (kg) 4e = (1b) + (4d) = 2967
Tire 5 (kg) 5e = (2b) + (5d) = 2800
Tire 6 (kg) 6e = (2b) + (6d) = 2800
F Controlling tire weight
Maximum value from step E 1f = 2967 kg
G – Choose tire with a rated load capacity equal to, or greater than the
controlling tire weight (ie. Tire rating > 1f)
– In some cases, the attachments may cause the maximum weight per
tire to exceed the highest tire rating. In these cases the tire supplier
should be contacted.
– The tire supplier should be contacted to adjust inflation pressures to
compensate for differences in tire loads.
16
Tire Selection Worksheet – Example
C Attachment information (reference Caterpillar Price List)
Tires Attachment
Attachment Type affected weight distribution
Ripper 1, 2, 3, 4 25% per tire
Push Block 5, 6 50% per tire
Front blade (any type) 5, 6 62% per tire
Mid-Mount Scarifier 5, 6 40% per tire
1, 2, 3, 4 5% per tire
Snow Wing 6 34% per tire
3, 4 55% per tire
Attachment #1
Attachment type Front Blade
Attachment weight (kg) 1c = 1180
Tire positions affected (see DIAGRAM) 1 2 3 4 5 6
Attachment weight dist. per tire (see chart) 2c = 0.62 0.62
Attachment weight per tire (kg) (1c) ⫻ (2c) = 3c = 732 732
= 1d = 2d = 3d = 4d = 5d = 6d
Attachment #2
Attachment type Ripper/Scarifier
Attachment weight (kg) 4c = 962
Attachment weight dist. per tire (see chart) 5c = 0.25 0.25 0.34
Attachment weight per tire (kg) (4c) ⫻ (5c) = 6c = 241 241
= 1d = 2d = 3d = 4d = 5d = 6d
Attachment #3
Attachment type
Attachment weight (kg) 7c =
Attachment weight dist. per tire (see chart) 8c =
Attachment weight per tire (kg) (7c) ⫻ (8c) = 9c =
= 1d = 2d = 3d = 4d = 5d = 6d
NOTE: Repeat for additional attachments if needed.
Conclusion:
A tire with a load rating of 2967 kg or greater is required.
By referencing the tire load capacities on page 17, the following tires would be
regarded as acceptable for this application:
14.00-24 12PR Bridgestone/Firestone, Goodyear
14.00R24 1 star Bridgestone/Firestone, Goodyear, Michelin
17.5R25 1 star Bridgestone/Firestone, Goodyear, Michelin
17.5-25 16PR Bridgestone/Firestone, Goodyear
Tire manufacturer input should be taken into account for situations similar to this.
17
Tire Selection Worksheet
1 2 5
3 4 6

Base operating weight (kg) 1a =
Base operating weight split to rear (%) 2a =
Base operating weight split to front (%) 3a =
attachments (kg) 1b = (1a) ⫻ (2a) / 4 =
Tires 1, 2, 3, 4
Tires 5, 6
C (on next page)
Tire 1 (kg) total of all 1d =
E Tire 1 (kg) 1e = (1b) + (1d) =
Tire 2 (kg) 2e = (1b) + (2d) =
Tire 3 (kg) 3e = (1b) + (3d) =
Tire 4 (kg) 4e = (1b) + (4d) =
Tire 5 (kg) 5e = (2b) + (5d) =
Tire 6 (kg) 6e = (2b) + (6d) =
Maximum value from step E 1f = kg
18
Tires Attachment
1, 2, 3, 4 5% per tire
3, 4 55% per tire
Attachment #1
Attachment type

= 1d = 2d = 3d = 4d = 5d = 6d
Attachment #2
Attachment type

= 1d = 2d = 3d = 4d = 5d = 6d
Attachment #3
Attachment type

= 1d = 2d = 3d = 4d = 5d = 6d
19
1 2 5
3 4 6

Base operating weight (kg) 1a =
Base operating weight split to rear (%) 2a =
Base operating weight split to front (%) 3a =
Tires 1, 2, 3, 4
Tires 5, 6
C (on next page)
E Tire 1 (kg) 1e = (1b) + (1d) =
Tire 2 (kg) 2e = (1b) + (2d) =
Tire 3 (kg) 3e = (1b) + (3d) =
Tire 4 (kg) 4e = (1b) + (4d) =
Tire 5 (kg) 5e = (2b) + (5d) =
Tire 6 (kg) 6e = (2b) + (6d) =
Maximum value from step E 1f = kg
20
Tires Attachment
1, 2, 3, 4 5% per tire
3, 4 55% per tire
Attachment #1
Attachment type

= 1d = 2d = 3d = 4d = 5d = 6d
Attachment #2
Attachment type

= 1d = 2d = 3d = 4d = 5d = 6d
Attachment #3
Attachment type

= 1d = 2d = 3d = 4d = 5d = 6d
21
Notes
22
Notes
23
CAT, CATERPILLAR, their respective
logos, “Caterpillar Yellow” and the
POWER EDGE trade dress, as well as
corporate and product identity used
herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar
and may not be used without permission.
www.cat.com
Printed in U.S.A.
AEXQ0403 © 2009 Caterpillar

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Title C AT E R P I L L A R ®

Motor Grader Model Tire Sizes Available

Note: Boldface denotes minimum tire size. Machine weight

Narrow base tire Wide base tire

Motor Grader Bias Tire Radial Tire

A higher-ply tire offers many performance and durability advantages. For a

SGG-2A SGL D/L 2A

*Tire availability varies by region.

Tread Depths for Rock Tires

Tread class relationships apply only within a tire manufacturer.

*Tire availability varies by region.

*Tire availability varies by region.

DIAGRAM: Tire positions – top view

Direction of machine motion

A Machine information (reference Specalog)

Direction of machine motion

A Machine information (reference Specalog)

Attachment weight (kg) 1c =

Attachment weight (kg) 4c =

Attachment weight (kg) 7c =

NOTE: Repeat for additional attachments if needed.

Direction of machine motion

A Machine information (reference Specalog)

Attachment weight (kg) 1c =

Attachment weight (kg) 4c =

Attachment weight (kg) 7c =

NOTE: Repeat for additional attachments if needed.

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