A single flat tire on a JLG boom lift isn't just a maintenance headache—it’s a high-stakes safety event. When a machine is elevated with workers in the basket, a sudden loss of tire pressure creates immediate instability, requiring emergency evacuation and halting production for hours.

For 2026, savvy fleet managers are moving away from the "fix-it-as-it-breaks" mentality. At TMS Equipment, we recommend a proactive shift to JLG Solid Tire Solutions. Here is the tactical breakdown of why solid tires are the only choice for high-productivity job sites.

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1. The Hidden Costs of Pneumatic Failures

If you are still running pneumatic (air-filled) tires on your aerial work platforms (AWP), you are likely losing more money than you realize. Consider these three "hidden" drains on your bottom line:

• The Evacuation Tax: Safety protocols require a full work stoppage before a tire can be serviced. That is 60+ minutes of zero productivity before a mechanic even arrives.
• The Rental Penalty: For rental houses, a flat tire results in a service call and often a "day of credit" given to the customer, wiping out the week's profit on that unit.
• OSHA Scrutiny: Tire-related instability is a red flag. Moving to solid tire assemblies eliminates the risk of tipping due to sudden pressure loss.

2. Solid vs. Foam-Filled: The 2026 Verdict

While foam-filling was the standard for years, engineered solid tire solutions have taken the lead for three tactical reasons:

A. Zero Maintenance

Foam-filled tires still rely on a rubber casing that can de-bead or "chunk" off the rim. Genuine JLG solid tires are bonded directly to the wheel, meaning there is no rim-slip and zero air pressure to monitor.

B. Superior Stability

Solid tires offer a consistent footprint. When a JLG boom is at full extension, the lack of "sidewall flex" in a solid tire provides a more stable platform for the operator, reducing sway and increasing confidence at height.

C. Versatility (Non-Marking)

Modern compounds allow these tires to transition from rough-terrain dirt to indoor finished concrete without leaving marks, making your equipment more versatile for multi-stage projects.

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Tactical Specs: JLG Solid Tire Comparison

Feature	Pneumatic / Foam	Solid Tire Assembly
Risk of Flat	High / Moderate	Zero
Total ROI	Low (Frequent repairs)	High (3x longer life)
Sidewall Flex	High (Less stable)	None (Maximum stability)

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Expert FAQ: JLG Tire Performance

Can I convert my JLG lift from pneumatic to solid?

Yes. Most JLG boom and scissor lifts can be retrofitted with a complete tire and rim assembly. View our full list of JLG Solid Tire Solutions to find the right fit for your model.

How long do solid tire assemblies last?

On average, a solid assembly will last 3 to 4 times longer than a standard pneumatic tire. Because there is no risk of blowout, you can utilize the rubber down to the wear line, maximizing your investment.

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