Measuring skid steer tire size correctly for over the tire tracks is essential if you want a perfect fit, maximum traction, and zero interference with your machine’s frame or hydraulics. Getting OTT track sizing wrong can lead to derailing, sidewall damage, broken chains, and costly downtime on construction sites, farms, and landscaping projects.
Why Proper Skid Steer Tire Size Measurement Matters for OTT Tracks
Over the tire tracks turn a wheeled skid steer into a high‑traction, high‑flotation machine, but only when the tire size, tire condition, and OTT track dimensions match. Manufacturers design rubber and steel OTT tracks around common skid steer tire sizes such as 10x16.5 and 12x16.5, and small deviations in tire width or diameter can make the difference between a smooth fit and constant problems. Precise tire size measurement also impacts how the track clears fenders, steps, auxiliary hydraulics, and loader arms at full articulation.
With most skid steer fleets running mixed brands, solid and pneumatic tires, and different tread patterns, there is no truly universal OTT track. The only way to avoid guesswork is to measure the tires currently on your machine and compare those dimensions to the recommended ranges from your over the tire track supplier.
How Skid Steer Tire Sizes Work for OTT Tracks
Before you pick up a tape measure, it helps to understand how skid steer tire size markings translate to real dimensions for OTT track fitment. Common pneumatic sizes such as 10x16.5, 12x16.5, and 14x17.5 follow a simple pattern where the first number usually represents section width and the second number indicates rim diameter in inches. A 12x16.5 tire is roughly 12 inches wide at the tread and fits a 16.5 inch rim, while a 10x16.5 tire is about 10 inches wide.
Some skid steer tires, especially solid or specialty patterns, use three‑number formats like 30x10‑16 or 33x12‑20. In these cases the first number is the overall tire height, the second number is section width, and the third is rim diameter. For example, a 30x10‑16 solid skid steer tire is about 30 inches tall, 10 inches wide, and mounts on a 16 inch rim. Understanding these formats is key when selecting rubber or steel over the tire tracks designed for specific tire widths and outside diameters.
Step‑by‑Step: How to Measure Skid Steer Tire Size for OTT Tracks
When you measure skid steer tires for over the tire tracks, you should record overall tire width, overall tire height, and sometimes the distance between front and rear axles or wheelbase. You also need to confirm whether the tires are pneumatic or solid because outer diameter varies even when the nominal size is the same.
To measure skid steer tire width for OTT tracks, position the loader on level ground and measure at the widest point across the tread, not the sidewall bulge. Record the measurement in inches and compare it with the nominal width in the size code; a 10x16.5 tire may measure close to 10 inches, while a 12x16.5 tire should be near 12 inches. OTT track suppliers typically specify a minimum and maximum tire width range for each track size, so accurate measurement ensures the track will seat correctly on the lugs without being too loose or too tight.
Next, measure skid steer tire height from the ground to the top of the tread, again on level ground with the machine safely parked. For size codes like 27x10.5‑15 or 30x10‑16, the first number in the sequence is the nominal height, but real‑world dimensions can differ slightly depending on wear, brand, and whether the tire is solid or pneumatic. Many solid skid steer tires converted from 10x16.5 pneumatics have typical outer diameters between roughly 30 and 31 inches, while 12x16.5 equivalents might range around 32.5 to 33 inches; these differences matter for OTT clearance.
Reading Skid Steer Tire Size Codes for OTT Track Selection
To avoid mistakes, always start by reading the size stamped on the skid steer tire sidewall. For a two‑number code such as 10x16.5, the first number is width and the second is rim diameter, so the outer diameter must be estimated or measured directly. Tire suppliers often recommend estimating pneumatic tire outer diameter by multiplying the section width by two and adding the rim diameter, but this is only a rough guide and should not replace actual measurement when selecting over the tire tracks.
For three‑number sizes like 27x10.5‑15 or 33x12‑16, the first number is outer diameter, the second number is section width, and the third is rim diameter. Understanding this arrangement allows you to quickly match OTT track specifications that call for, for example, a 10 inch wide tire with an outer diameter around 30 inches. When in doubt, treat the sidewall marking as a starting point and verify all critical dimensions with a tape measure.
Measuring Pneumatic vs Solid Skid Steer Tires for OTT Tracks
Pneumatic skid steer tires flex under load, which means their actual working height and width can change when the machine is carrying heavy attachments or loads. When you measure pneumatic tires for OTT tracks, take dimensions with the machine empty and tires inflated to the pressure specified by the manufacturer. Under‑inflated pneumatic tires will appear shorter and wider, which can cause an over the tire track to fit poorly and may lead to rubbing or de‑tracking.
Solid skid steer tires behave differently because the outer diameter is fixed and there is no air pressure to adjust. Industry guidance explains that when converting from pneumatic to solid, a 10x16.5 reference size usually yields an outer diameter near 30 to 31 inches, while 12x16.5 solids land around 32.5 to 33 inches, and 14x17.5 equivalents often measure about 36 to 36.5 inches. These typical values help OTT manufacturers design tracks for common machines, but you should still measure the actual outer diameter of your specific solids to confirm fit and clearance.
Tire Wear, Tread Pattern, and Condition for OTT Track Fitment
Skid steer tire wear has a direct impact on how well over the tire tracks will seat and stay aligned. OTT track manufacturers frequently recommend installing tracks over new or nearly new tires because deep lugs are better at gripping track crossbars and preventing slippage. Worn, bald, or mismatched tires can cause uneven load distribution, create gaps between tire and track, and shorten both tire and OTT lifespan.
Tread pattern also matters when you measure skid steer tire size for OTT tracks. Some aggressive block or bar treads may have raised shoulders that slightly increase effective width, even if the sidewall code is the same as a smoother industrial tread. When measuring width, always capture the extreme outer edges of the tread pattern that will contact the track, not just the carcass width, to ensure the over the tire track is neither excessively pinched nor too loose.
Matching Skid Steer Tire Size to Common OTT Track Sizes
Most steel and rubber over the tire track systems for skid steers are built around a few core tire size families. For example, a 10x16.5 skid steer tire with a width close to 10 inches and a rim diameter of 16.5 inches is often matched to OTT tracks designed for 10 inch wide tires with an outer diameter up to around 30 or 31 inches. A 12x16.5 skid steer tire typically pairs with OTT tracks rated for 12 inch wide tires and outer diameters near 32.5 to 33 inches, with wheelbase limits specified by the track manufacturer.
Some product specifications list OTT size ranges like 10x16.5 with a tire width of 10 inches and maximum wheelbase of about 43 inches, and 12x16.5 with a tire width of 12 inches and maximum wheelbase near 47 inches. Wheelbase limits ensure that the track chain is long enough to wrap around the tires correctly without excessive slack or interference. When measuring skid steer tire size for OTT tracks, always confirm both width and overall diameter, then compare those values to both size and wheelbase recommendations from your track supplier.
Market Trends: Over the Tire Tracks and Skid Steer Tire Sizing
The market for skid steer over the tire tracks has grown quickly as contractors, landscapers, farmers, and rental yards look for ways to get track loader performance from existing wheeled machines. Industry reports show increased adoption of both steel OTT and rubber OTT systems across North America and other regions, especially where contractors face mixed ground conditions that change from project to project. This trend puts more focus on accurate skid steer tire measurement and standardized tire sizes.
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As over the tire tracks become a standard accessory for many skid steer fleets, suppliers are publishing more detailed fitment charts that reference tire width, outer diameter, rim size, and sometimes axle spacing. This shift toward data‑driven sizing helps reduce returns and installation issues, but it also means operators must know how to measure their skid steer tires accurately if they expect perfect OTT compatibility.
Rubber vs Steel OTT Tracks and Tire Size Considerations
Rubber over the tire tracks and steel over the tire tracks respond differently to variations in skid steer tire size. Rubber OTT tracks are slightly more forgiving because rubber pads flex and can absorb minor differences in tire diameter or width, providing a smoother ride and better vibration damping. This makes them a popular choice for working on asphalt, concrete, and other sensitive surfaces where surface protection and operator comfort are priorities.
Steel OTT tracks, on the other hand, are less tolerant of sizing errors because their open bar or ladder design is rigid and places higher localized loads on tires. When measuring for steel over the tire tracks, tire width and outer diameter must be verified carefully to prevent the track from binding, riding too high on the tire crown, or contacting the machine’s frame under full articulation. Steel OTT systems are ideal for tough off‑road applications such as demolition, land clearing, and forestry, but they demand particularly accurate tire measurement and often require new or lightly worn tires for best performance.
OTT Track Technology and Skid Steer Tire Fitment
Modern over the tire track designs feature engineered crossbars, side chains, and fastening systems that rely heavily on consistent tire size and shape. Many rubber OTT products use molded pads bonded to high‑strength steel crossbars spaced to match common skid steer tire footprints. Steel OTT systems often use open bars and cleats that must align correctly with the tire surface to avoid uneven pressure and premature tire damage.
Advances in material science, such as improved rubber compounds and high‑strength steels, allow OTT tracks to handle heavier loads and more abrasive conditions. However, these gains are only fully realized when tire measurements for width, height, and condition are accurate. Some suppliers now publish recommended tire tread depths and condition guidelines for OTT installation, emphasizing that poor tire condition can negate the benefits of advanced OTT technology.
Real‑World Case Examples and Return on Investment
Contractors who accurately measure skid steer tire size and choose the correct OTT track type often report tangible gains in uptime, traction, and jobsite versatility. A landscaping crew may switch from running bare tires on soft, muddy ground to properly sized rubber over the tire tracks installed over new 10x16.5 pneumatic tires. The improved traction and flotation reduce bogging down, lower time spent recovering stuck machines, and allow work to continue in light rain or shoulder seasons.
A demolition contractor might equip skid steers with correctly sized steel OTT tracks over heavy‑duty solid 12x16.5 tires, delivering extreme durability against rebar, rubble, and sharp debris. By measuring outer diameter carefully and ensuring enough clearance around fenders and hydraulic lines, the operator can avoid track derailments and tire sidewall failures. In both scenarios, a modest investment of time in accurate skid steer tire measurement supports higher productivity, lower tire damage, and better overall return on investment for OTT systems.
Comparison Matrix: Skid Steer Tires and OTT Track Fit
When you plan an OTT upgrade, it is useful to compare the main tire and track configurations and how sensitive each is to measurement accuracy.
| Configuration | Tire Type and Size Use | OTT Track Type | Fitment Sensitivity | Typical Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pneumatic 10x16.5 with rubber OTT | Air‑filled 10 inch wide tires on 16.5 inch rims | Rubber over the tire tracks | Medium sensitivity to outer diameter and tread depth | Landscaping, snow removal, farm work, general construction |
| Pneumatic 12x16.5 with steel OTT | Air‑filled 12 inch wide tires on 16.5 inch rims | Steel over the tire tracks | High sensitivity to width, diameter, and tire wear | Demolition, land clearing, heavy construction |
| Solid 30x10‑16 with rubber OTT | Solid 30 inch tall, 10 inch wide tires | Rubber OTT tuned for solid tire outer diameter | High sensitivity to height and clearance | Waste handling, recycling plants, industrial yards |
| Solid 33x12‑16 with steel OTT | Solid 33 inch tall, 12 inch wide tires | Steel OTT with open design | Very high sensitivity; new or uniform tires required | Extreme duty, rock quarries, forestry support |
This type of comparison helps you see that as tire stiffness, outer diameter, and application severity increase, so does the importance of precise skid steer tire measurement and OTT track selection.
Buying Guide: How to Choose OTT Tracks Based on Tire Measurements
Once you have recorded tire width, tire height, rim diameter, and wheelbase, you can confidently narrow down the right over the tire track model for your skid steer. Start by selecting the OTT size that explicitly lists your tire width and rim size as compatible, such as 10x16.5 or 12x16.5. Then, verify that your measured outer diameter falls within the recommended range and that the maximum wheelbase for the track is greater than or equal to your skid steer’s axle spacing.
Consider your primary applications when choosing between rubber and steel OTT tracks. Contractors working on pavement, driveways, concrete pads, and finished landscapes typically lean toward rubber over the tire tracks to minimize surface damage and improve ride comfort. Those working in demolition, land clearing, and deep mud or rock may favor steel OTT tracks for their durability and aggressive traction, provided their measurements ensure enough clearance and correct chain tension.
Frequently Asked Questions About Measuring Skid Steer Tires for OTT Tracks
How do you read skid steer tire size for OTT tracks
Read the sidewall code; two numbers such as 10x16.5 mean tire width and rim diameter, while three numbers like 30x10‑16 indicate height, width, and rim size. Always confirm with a tape measure.
Do you need new tires before installing over the tire tracks
Many OTT manufacturers recommend new or nearly new skid steer tires because fresh tread lugs grip the track better and reduce the risk of slippage, de‑tracking, and sidewall damage under heavy loads.
Can you use OTT tracks on solid skid steer tires
Yes, many rubber and steel over the tire tracks are compatible with solid tires, but you must pay close attention to outer diameter and clearance because solids often differ slightly from pneumatic equivalents.
What happens if OTT tracks are too tight or too loose on the tire
Tracks that are too tight can overload bearings, chains, and sidewalls, while tracks that are too loose can derail or slap against the machine. Proper sizing and tension adjustment are essential for safe operation.
Do all skid steer tire sizes have a matching OTT track size
Not every tire and machine combination has a dedicated OTT model, but most common sizes such as 10x16.5 and 12x16.5 are widely supported. When in doubt, provide exact measurements and machine details to your supplier.
Future Trends in Skid Steer Tires and OTT Track Fitment
Looking ahead, skid steer tire and OTT track manufacturers are moving toward more integrated fitment systems where tire size, tread pattern, and track geometry are designed as a unified package. Expect to see more detailed sizing charts that account for tire wear ranges, solid versus pneumatic constructions, and machine‑specific clearance envelopes. This evolution will reduce guesswork but will still rely on operators taking accurate measurements in the field.
Digital tools, mobile apps, and configurators are also emerging that guide users through tire measurement steps and suggest suitable over the tire tracks based on brand, model, and application. As more fleets standardize on a small set of tire sizes like 10x16.5 and 12x16.5, supply chains can optimize OTT inventory, reduce lead times, and improve availability. Contractors and equipment owners who master proper tire measurement today will be best positioned to take advantage of these new technologies and product options.
Turning Accurate Tire Measurements into OTT Track Performance
Accurately measuring skid steer tire size for over the tire tracks is a small step that carries big consequences for performance, safety, and cost. By understanding tire size codes, measuring actual width and outer diameter, accounting for tire wear and tread pattern, and matching your data to OTT specifications, you minimize fitment risk and maximize traction and flotation gains. The result is a skid steer that behaves more like a purpose‑built track loader without sacrificing flexibility.
As you plan your next upgrade, take a few extra minutes with a tape measure to record tire dimensions on every skid steer in your fleet. Share those measurements with your OTT track supplier, discuss your primary applications, and choose rubber or steel tracks that truly match your machines and jobsites. Done correctly, this process turns a simple measurement exercise into a lasting investment in productivity, machine protection, and overall return on your skid steer equipment.