Pallet Jack Load Wheels

Pallet jack load wheels are the small wheels under the tips of the forks. They do not swivel but follow the motion of the fork, which is forward and backward only. The load wheels are responsible for supporting the weight of the pallet. They also help to reduce friction and increase stability. Load wheels are usually made of polyurethane, nylon, or steel.

In this article, you’ll learn: 

• Purpose and Use of Pallet Jack Load Wheels
• Standard Sizes Available in the Market
• Commonly Used Materials for Load Wheels
• Factors to Consider When Choosing Pallet Jack Load Wheels
• What is included in a Pallet Jack Load Wheel Repair Kit?
• Why Should You Consider Us, Pallet Jackson, for Buying Pallet Jack Load Wheels?

Pallet Jack Load Wheels: An Overview

The load wheels on a pallet jack are strategically positioned at the front end of the forks. Pallet jack load wheels come in different sizes, but the most common are 3 inches in diameter. Depending on the design and application, some pallet jacks may have larger or smaller load wheels. 

Properly sized and maintained load wheels help distribute the weight evenly, reducing the pressure exerted on the floor surface. While not directly responsible for steering, it contributes to the overall maneuverability of the pallet jack by providing a stable and smooth rolling over the surface.

Types of Pallet Jack Load Wheel Materials

Here are some common types of pallet jack load wheel materials and their advantages and disadvantages:

1. Polyurethane 

This synthetic material offers good traction, durability, and noise reduction. Polyurethane wheels suit most indoor applications, especially on smooth and hard surfaces. They are also resistant to chemicals, oil, and water. However, polyurethane wheels can be expensive and may wear out faster than other materials.

2. Ultra Polyurethane

This type of polyurethane has been enhanced with additives to improve its performance. Ultra polyurethane wheels have higher load capacity, abrasion resistance, and shock absorption than regular polyurethane wheels. They are ideal for heavy-duty applications and rough surfaces. However, ultra polyurethane wheels are also more costly and may leave marks on some floors.

3. Rubber

This natural material provides excellent cushioning, grip, and smoothness. Rubber wheels are ideal for uneven and soft surfaces, such as carpet, wood, or tile. They are also quiet and can handle high temperatures. However, rubber wheels can be prone to flat spots, cracking, and deformation. They are also not very resistant to chemicals, oil, and water.

4. Nylon

This synthetic material offers high strength, hardness, and resistance to wear and tear. Nylon wheels are suitable for heavy loads and high-speed applications. They are also easy to clean and maintain. However, nylon wheels can be noisy, slippery, and harsh on some floors. They can also generate static electricity and damage sensitive equipment.

5. Steel 

This metal material offers the highest load capacity, durability, and stability. Steel wheels are ideal for extreme conditions and environments, such as outdoors, cold storage, or corrosive substances. They can also withstand impacts, punctures, and abrasions. However, steel wheels can be very heavy, noisy, and expensive. They can also damage floors and require lubrication.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Pallet Jack Load Wheels

It is important to consider several factors when choosing the right load wheels for your pallet jack. Here are some of the main factors to keep in mind:

Load-Bearing Capacity

The load wheels should support the maximum weight the pallet jack will carry. The load-bearing capacity of the load wheels depends on their size, material, and design. Generally, larger and thicker load wheels can handle heavier loads than smaller and thinner ones.

Floor Surface

The load wheels should be compatible with the type and condition of the floor surface where the pallet jack will operate. For example, smooth and hard floor surfaces, such as concrete or tile, require load wheels that have high friction and low rolling resistance, such as polyurethane or rubber. Rough and soft floor surfaces, such as carpet or wood, require load wheels with low friction and high rolling resistance, such as nylon or steel.

Frequency and Intensity of Use

The load wheels should withstand the stress and impact of frequent and intensive use without breaking or deforming. For example, if the pallet jack is used daily for long hours and over long distances, the load wheels should be made of durable and resilient materials, such as polyurethane, steel, or cast iron. If the pallet jack is used occasionally for short hours and over short distances, the load wheels can be made of less durable and resilient materials, such as nylon or rubber.

Noise Level

The noise level affects the comfort and safety of the operators and bystanders. The load wheels should be able to reduce the noise generated by the pallet jack when moving loads. The noise level of the load wheels depends on their material, design, and quality. Generally, softer and smoother load wheels produce less noise than harder and rougher ones. For example, polyurethane or rubber load wheels are quieter than nylon or steel.

Durability

The durability of the load wheels depends on their material, quality, and usage conditions. Generally, higher quality and more expensive load wheels are more durable than lower quality and cheaper ones. For example, steel or cast iron load wheels are more durable than nylon or rubber.

Cost

The load wheels should be affordable and cost-effective for the business. Generally, cheaper load wheels have lower performance and durability than more expensive ones. For example, nylon or rubber load wheels are cheaper than steel or cast iron.

What is Included in a Pallet Jack Load Wheel Kit? 

The pallet jack load wheel kit is a set of components that can be used to replace the worn or damaged wheels of a pallet jack.

This kit includes the following items:

Replacement Wheels (Set of 2 or 4)

These are the new load wheels that will replace the old ones. They are usually made of polyurethane, nylon, or steel, depending on the type of surface and load they will encounter. 

Bearings

These metal rings allow the load wheels to rotate smoothly and reduce friction. They are usually sealed or shielded to prevent dirt and debris from entering and damaging them.

Fasteners

These are the screws, nuts, bolts, washers, or pins that secure the load wheels and bearings to the pallet jack forks. 

Others

Some pallet jack load wheel kits may also include other accessories, such as spacers, bushings, axles, or grease fittings, that help with the installation and maintenance of the load wheels.

Why Choose Pallet Jackson to Buy High-Quality Load Wheels for Pallet Jack?

If you are looking for reliable and durable load wheels for your pallet jack, you should consider Pallet Jackson as your trusted supplier. Pallet Jackson offers a wide range of load wheels compatible with different models and pallet jack brands. Whether you need polyurethane, nylon, or steel load wheels, Pallet Jackson has them all at competitive prices. Pallet Jackson also provides fast, free shipping for $550 orders and a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can order online or call our customer service team for any inquiries. Pallet Jackson is the best choice for high-quality load wheels for pallet jack.