Pallet Jack Steer Wheels

Pallet jack steer wheels are located at the back of the pallet jack and help with steering and turning. They are typically 7 to 8 inches in diameter and are mounted on a swiveling base controlled by the jack's handle. Pallet jack steer wheels are important for maneuvering the pallet jack in tight spaces and aligning the forks with the pallets.

In this article, you’ll learn:

• Purpose and Use of Pallet Jack Steer Wheels
• Types of Pallet Jack Steer Wheels Material
• Factors to Consider When Choosing Pallet Jack Steer Wheels
• What Includes in a Pallet Jack Steer Wheel Kit
• Why Pallet Jackson Should Be Your #1 Choice When Buying Pallet Jack Steer Wheels?

Pallet Jack Steer Wheels

Steer wheels are typically positioned at the rear end of the pallet jack, directly behind the forks. This strategic placement allows the operator to steer and navigate the pallet jack by applying pressure or force to the handle or tiller. They allow the operator to easily change directions, navigate tight spaces, and position the load precisely where needed. 

Some common standard sizes available in the market include:

• 4 inches (101.6 mm) diameter
• 5 inches (127 mm) diameter
• 6 inches (152.4 mm) diameter
• 7 inches (177.8 mm) diameter
• 8 inches (203.2 mm) diameter

Smaller steer wheels generally offer a tighter turning radius, enabling operation in confined spaces.

Types of Pallet Jack Steer Wheel Materials

Pallet jack steer wheels allow the operator to maneuver the pallet jack in different directions. 

There are different types of materials available for pallet jack steer wheels, such as:

1. Polyurethane 

It is highly durable, abrasion-resistant, oil/grease resistant, and available in different hardness levels.

2. Ultra Polyurethane

It is the premium polyurethane version with higher load capacity, increased wear resistance, and improved chemical resistance.

3. Rubber

It offers excellent traction with good shock absorption and is suitable for outdoor/uneven surfaces.

4. Nylon

It is cost-effective, impact-resistant, low rolling resistance, and good for moderate load capacities.

5. Steel 

This metal material has exceptional strength and durability, is used for heavy-duty applications, and may have coatings for traction/noise reduction.

6. Others

Other materials are available for pallet jack steer wheels, such as aluminum, phenolic resin, or cast iron. Depending on the specific application and environment, these materials may have different advantages and disadvantages.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Pallet Jack Steer Wheels

There are several factors to consider when choosing the best steer wheels for your pallet jack, such as:

Load-Bearing Capacity

The steer and load wheels should be able to support the weight of the pallet jack and the load it carries. Generally, larger and thicker load wheels can handle heavier loads than smaller and thinner ones.

Floor Surface

The steer wheels should be compatible with the floor surface on which they will be used. For example, polyurethane load wheels suit most floor surfaces, while nylon load wheels are ideal for smooth and hard floors.

Swivel Mechanism

The pallet jack steer wheels should have a reliable and smooth swivel mechanism that allows them to turn and maneuver in tight spaces. The swivel mechanism should also withstand the stress and impact of frequent use. Depending on the user's preference and budget, the swivel mechanism can be either a ball or roller bearing.

Tread Patterns

These wheels should have appropriate tread patterns that enhance their traction and stability on different floor surfaces. Smooth tread patterns are suitable for indoor use, while grooved tread patterns are better for outdoor use or wet conditions.

Bearing Types

Bearing types can be plain or sealed, depending on the required maintenance and protection. Plain bearings are cheaper and easier to replace but require more lubrication and cleaning. Sealed bearings are more expensive and harder to replace but more resistant to dust, dirt, and moisture.

Frequency and Intensity of Use

Frequent and intensive use requires more durable and robust steer wheels that can withstand the wear and tear of daily operations. Infrequent and light use allows for more economical and simple load wheels that can still perform adequately.

Noise Level

The noise level depends on several factors, such as the material, size, shape, tread pattern, bearing type, and floor surface of the load wheels. Generally, softer and smoother steer wheels produce less noise than harder and rougher ones.

Durability

The steer wheels should have a long lifespan, minimizing the need for replacement and maintenance. Durability depends on several factors, such as the steer wheels' quality, material, design, construction, and coating. Generally, higher-quality and more expensive steer wheels last longer than lower-quality and cheaper ones.

Cost

The pallet jack steer wheels should fit the budget and user's expectations. Cost depends on several factors, such as the brand, model, size, material, design, features, and performance of the steer wheels. 

What is Included in a Pallet Jack Steer Wheel Kit? 

The steer wheels are the rear wheels that allow the operator to maneuver the pallet jack.

The pallet jack steer wheel kit includes:

Replacement Wheels (Set of 2 or 4)

These are the new wheels that will replace the old ones. They are usually made of polyurethane, nylon, or rubber, depending on the type of surface they will be used on. Polyurethane wheels are durable and resistant to abrasion, oil, and chemicals. Nylon wheels are hard and smooth, suitable for smooth and flat surfaces. Rubber wheels are soft and cushioned, ideal for uneven or rough surfaces.

Bearings

These metal rings allow the wheels to rotate smoothly and reduce friction. They are usually sealed or shielded to prevent dirt and dust from entering. Bearings can be ball bearings, roller bearings, or tapered roller bearings, depending on the load capacity and speed of the pallet jack.

Fasteners

The nuts, bolts, washers, and pins secure the wheels and bearings to the pallet jack frame. They are usually made of steel or stainless steel, depending on the corrosion resistance required. Fasteners should be tightened properly to prevent loosening and ensure safety.

Others

Depending on the model and brand of the pallet jack, some steer wheel kits may also include other components, such as spacers, bushings, axles, caps, or clips. These adjust the wheels' and bearings' fit and alignment.

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

If you are looking for reliable and durable steer wheels for your pallet jack, you should consider Pallet Jackson as your trusted supplier. Pallet Jackson offers many high-quality wheels that are compatible with most pallet jack models and brands. Whether you need polyurethane, nylon, rubber, or steel steer wheels, Pallet Jackson has them all at competitive prices. Pallet Jackson also provides fast, free shipping, easy returns, and excellent customer service. You can order online or call us anytime to get a quote. Pallet Jackson is the best choice for your pallet jack steer wheel needs.