LEKTRO APM2201BF – 4 x 8 Traction Tire, 10-Ply

No. This new tire is 10-ply and will not work if you have the older "one-piece" wheel. You will need to purchase a wheel and tire assembly (APM2200S) or a new wheel (M2258B) along with the tire and tubes.

Please contact us at [email protected] with your Lektro model and serial number to confirm whether your tug has the one-piece wheel.

A “10-ply” designation refers to a heavier load-range construction, meaning the tire’s internal structure is designed to handle higher loads and stresses than lower-ply alternatives. In tire terminology, a 10-ply rating often corresponds with Load Range E, capable of supporting greater weight at proper inflation levels. For aircraft tugs, this translates into greater durability and resistance to heat and deformation during heavy towing operations.

The additional layers in a 10-ply tire increase sidewall strength and load-carrying capacity, helping the tire resist punctures, cuts, and impacts common on airport ramp surfaces. This enhanced construction also provides sustained traction under repeated towing loads, helping maintain control and reducing tire fatigue over time. For ground crews, that means fewer tire changes and improved uptime for LEKTRO tugs.

Yes. Traction tires like the APM2201BF are engineered to provide reliable grip on concrete and asphalt ramp aprons, where aircraft tugs most often operate. The tread design helps optimize traction during acceleration, braking, and maneuvering, reducing slippage even under load. Proper grip also supports smoother, safer aircraft repositioning and pushback operations.

While the APM2201BF is designed to fit LEKTRO electric aircraft tugs with 4 × 8 traction tires, older wheel assemblies (such as one-piece wheels) may not work with it directly. In such cases, a full wheel and tire assembly upgrade might be necessary to ensure proper fit and function. Always verify compatibility with your specific tug model before purchase.

Tug traction tires should be checked regularly – typically before each shift or at least weekly during heavy use – to assess wear, cracking, cuts, embedded debris, or uneven tread wear. Proactive tire inspection helps catch issues before they compromise traction or cause downtime. Early detection of wear can also help schedule replacements at convenient intervals rather than unexpectedly in the middle of operations.

Exposure to extreme heat, prolonged UV radiation, oil or chemical spills, and abrasive surfaces can accelerate tire wear or degrade rubber compounds over time. Even though the 10-ply design offers added toughness, operators should still store spare tires in shaded, dry areas. Regular cleaning and avoiding unnecessary exposure to contaminants also help prolong tire life.

Yes. Traction tires generally perform well on a variety of surfaces, including wet ramp areas, thanks to tread designs that increase contact with the ground and grip. However, traction levels will still depend on the specific surface and contaminants present. Operators should exercise caution in icy, oily, or heavily contaminated environments, as no tire can fully eliminate slippage in extreme conditions.

Maintaining proper tire pressure is essential for traction, tire wear, and safety. While exact PSI recommendations depend on the tug manufacturer's guidelines, ensuring the tire is neither underinflated nor overinflated supports consistent performance and structural support under load. Most facility tire maintenance programs include routine pressure checks during daily pre-shift inspections.

OEM tires are engineered to meet LEKTRO’s original specifications, ensuring proper fit, weight capacity, and traction performance for specific electric aircraft tugs. Aftermarket alternatives may not match the same quality control, leading to accelerated wear, reduced traction, or premature failure. With OEM tires, operators can maintain consistent handling characteristics and avoid potential safety or downtime issues.

Reliable traction tires help ensure that LEKTRO electric tugs can start, stop, and maneuver efficiently under load, reducing the risk of delays during aircraft pushback or repositioning. Tires that maintain grip and structural integrity also reduce the frequency of unscheduled service stops. Overall, quality traction tires support smoother ground handling operations and help keep ramps running on schedule.