Access platform tyres are often overlooked — until performance drops or safety becomes a concern. Whether you're managing a hire fleet or maintaining your own scissor lifts, knowing when to replace access platform tyres is critical to keeping equipment safe, stable and site-ready.

Here’s what to watch for.

1. Visible Tread Wear or Flat Spots

Most scissor lifts use solid, non-marking tyres. While they don’t deflate like pneumatic tyres, they do wear down over time.

Warning signs include:

• Flattened contact areas
• Uneven wear patterns
• Chunking or missing rubber
• Reduced tread depth

Excessive wear affects:

• Stability at height
• Load distribution
• Drive performance

If the tyre profile is noticeably altered, it’s time to assess replacement.

2. Cracking, Splitting or Sidewall Damage

Even if tread looks acceptable, structural damage is a serious concern.

Look for:

• Deep cracks
• Rubber separation
• Exposed internal material
• Bulging sidewalls

These can worsen quickly under load — especially on uneven site surfaces.

3. Vibration or Reduced Drive Performance

Sometimes the signs aren’t visual.

If operators report:

• Increased vibration
• Pulling to one side
• Jerky drive movement
• Reduced traction indoors

Worn or uneven access platform wheels may be the cause.

This is particularly common in heavily used indoor units such as 19ft electric scissor lifts.

4. Repeated Surface Marking Indoors

Non-marking tyres eventually lose their compound integrity.

If machines begin:

• Leaving marks on finished floors
• Slipping on smooth surfaces

It may indicate rubber hardening or degradation.

For facilities work, this alone can justify replacement.

5. Manufacturer Wear Limits Reached

Each model — whether Snorkel, Genie or Skyjack — has recommended inspection intervals and wear tolerances.

Fleet managers should:

• Include tyres in routine service inspections
• Check diameter reduction against original spec
• Replace in pairs when necessary for balanced performance

How Often Should Access Platform Tyres Be Replaced?

There’s no fixed timeline. It depends on:

• Usage frequency
• Indoor vs outdoor operation
• Surface type
• Load conditions

High-use hire fleet machines may require inspection every few months.

Lower-use facility machines may last significantly longer.

The key is proactive inspection rather than reactive replacement.

Need Replacement Access Platform Tyres?

IPS supplies compatible scissor lift wheels and MEWP tyres for leading brands including Snorkel, Genie and Skyjack.

If you're unsure whether your tyres need replacing — or need help identifying the correct specification — our team can assist.

Get in touch with IPS to confirm compatibility and availability.