Air Pressure and Tire Care Tips for Aerial Work Platforms
Rashid
Er. Rashid is a seasoned Equipment Operations Manager with over 12 years of experience in heavy machinery logistics, resale, and fleet optimization across the Middle East and Africa. Having worked with leading construction and rental firms, he specializes in evaluating equipment value, procurement strategy, and resale planning. At Mikas, he shares industry insights to help contractors and asset owners make smarter machinery decisions.
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For aerial working platforms (AWPs), operators often pay close attention to the height, lift capacity, and even the hydraulic efficiency of the machine.
However, one critically important detail that most operators tend to overlook is the tire pressure.
At Mikas, we say that air is to tires what oil is to the engine.
Improper tire pressure on boom lifts, scissor lifts, and other AWPs is not only going to impact their performance, but the improper pressure could lead to serious safety failures too.
In this blog, we will educate you on the significant impact air pressure has on equipment fitness, daily maintenance routines, and share Mikas’ tailored inflation pressure chart for peak efficiency.
The Importance of Tire Pressure on Aerial Work Platforms
Load Distribution: Tire pressure maintains balance with the weight of the machine, ensuring optimal workload and minimizing wear on the chassis and axles.
Stability: Elevated platforms are particularly vulnerable to uneven surfaces and improper tire inflation.
Fuel Consumption & Energy Drain: Improper tire pressure leads to increased resistance on fuel consumption, draining battery life on engine-operated models, or both.
Safety: Neglecting tire maintenance has been linked to blowouts, tipping, and platform wobble.
Common Types of Tires in AWP Equipment
- Foam-Filled Tires: Puncture-proof and maintenance-free but heavy.
- Air-Filled Pneumatic Tires: Require regular pressure checks — suitable for rough terrains.
- Non-Marking Solid Tires: For indoor scissor lifts — no inflation needed but still require inspection.
MIKAS Recommended Tire Pressure Chart
| Equipment Type | Tire Type | Recommended PSI |
|---|---|---|
| Boom Lift – JLG 860 SJ | Pneumatic | 90 PSI |
| Scissor Lift – Genie GS | Solid / Non-marking | N/A |
| Spider Lift | Pneumatic | 75 PSI |
| Vertical Mast Lift | Pneumatic | 50 PSI |
| Trailer Mounted Lift | Pneumatic | 80 PSI |
Always cross-check PSI recommendations with OEM manual.
Daily Tire Maintenance Checklist
- Inspect Before Use: Perform a 360° walk-around visual check every morning.
- Check PSI: Use a calibrated pressure gauge. Most issues stem from under-inflation.
- Look for Uneven Wear: May indicate axle misalignment or faulty suspension.
- Clear Debris: Remove stones, nails, or debris lodged in tread.
- Verify Valve Cap Tightness: Loose caps lead to air leaks.
- Log Maintenance: Keep a daily record to identify trends over time.
Signs of Improper Tire Pressure
- Platform wobble at elevation
- Increased fuel or battery usage
- Tilt alarm triggering unnecessarily
- Unusual sounds or vibrations when moving
- Visible flattening of tire footprint
Safety Guidelines
- Never adjust tire pressure while machine is elevated.
- Let tires cool before inflating to avoid false pressure readings.
- Only trained personnel should perform pressure checks.
- Follow lockout/tagout procedures during maintenance.
MIKAS After-Sales Support: Tires & More
When you buy a used boom lift or scissor lift from MIKAS AE, you’re not just buying a machine — you’re securing long-term performance.
We provide:
Free consultation on ideal tire specs for your job site
- Spare tire parts for global brands like JLG, Genie, Haulotte
- Tire replacement services across UAE and KSA
- Emergency on-site repairs for tire-related breakdowns
My Final Thought
In my 12+ years working with heavy equipment fleets, one of the most overlooked factors in aerial lift performance is tire pressure.
But the truth is — tires are your foundation. Respect them, maintain them, and your entire operation becomes more efficient, safer, and more profitable