Answering buyer questions about 12-4-38 tractor tires with clear, comparable options. These selections suit different farming needs, from fieldwork to yard duties. The top picks below help you decide which tire type fits your tractor, terrain, and workload. This guide highlights who each tire is best for, plus practical trade-offs to consider before buying.
| Product | Brand | Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Firestone Field And Road R-1 Farm Tire 12.4/-38 | Firestone | Tube Type Load Range D | General-purpose field and road work |
| BKT TR 135 Farm Tractor Farm Tire 12.4/-38 | BKT | BW Load Range G | Heavy-duty field tasks and tougher terrain |
| BKT TR135 Rear Tractor R-1 Radial Tire 12.4/-36 | BKT | R-1 Radial | Rear-wheel traction on mixed fields |
| Air Loc Brand Inner Tube 11.2/12.4-36/38 | Air Loc | Inner Tube | Compatibility and tube support for multiple sizes |
| HORSESHOE 4 Super Lug Front & Rear Tires 18×8.50-10 / 26×12.00-12 | HORSESHOE | 4-tire set, non-highway service | New, heavy-duty lug tires for front and rear use |
Firestone Field And Road R-1 12.4/-38
Firestone Field And Road R-1 tires are classic choices for mixed-use farming. This tube-type tire falls under Load Range D, offering a balance of strength and flexibility for light to moderate workloads. Best for buyers seeking reliable, established performance in traditional field and road operations. Suitable for tractors performing general tillage, hauling, and routine field work.
Best for: Farmers needing a dependable, widely available option with proven field-road versatility. Not ideal for extreme load conditions or high-traction demands on very rough terrain.
Limitation: Tube-type design may require more careful mounting and maintenance to prevent air loss in rugged conditions.
BKT TR 135 Farm Tractor 12.4/-38
The BKT TR 135 in 12.4/-38 is designed for higher load ranges and more demanding field work. With a BW Load Range G profile, this tire aims to deliver improved traction and stability on uneven terrain and heavier implement usage. Best for operators who need stronger performance in tough soils and longer life in demanding seasons.
Best for: Farms facing heavier workloads and tougher soil conditions, where traction and durability matter most. Better for: scenarios requiring higher load stability than standard D-rated options. Avoid: if you only need basic field tasks on light soils.
BKT TR135 Rear Tractor R-1 12.4/-36
This BKT TR135 rear tire in 12.4/-36 shifts focus to rear-wheel traction, essential for push-forces during plowing and heavy field tasks. The R-1 radial profile provides strong field grip and resilience under load, ideal for tractors operating predominantly in rear traction duties. Best for tractors performing rear-driven tasks on mixed terrain.
Best for: Rear-axle power users needing reliable traction. Better for: setups requiring robust rear grip. Caution: size differs from the 38-inch front tires, so verify compatibility with your tractor model and wheel rims.
Air Loc Inner Tube for 12.4/36-38 Tires
The Air Loc inner tube is a compatible accessory for 11.2/12.4-36/38 tractor tires. It supports radial or bias applications and comes with a TR218A valve stem. Best for: operators who require a reliable inner tube option to complement tubed tires. Caution: inner tube compatibility depends on tire type and wheel design; confirm inflation guidelines for your setup.
(2) 20×12.00-10 OTR 38 Special Tires
These two OTR tires are designed for aggressive turf replacement and specialty applications. They are generally considered for larger, rugged equipment or specialized riding/landing gear rather than standard 12.4/-38 tractors. Best for: tasks requiring aggressive tread and a dedicated 38 Special sizing adaptation. Caution: not a direct match for standard 12.4/-38 farm tractors; verify compatibility with your equipment before purchase.
HORSESHOE 4-Tire Set – Front & Rear
HORSESHOE offers a new-tire 4-tire set with two front 18×8.50-10 and two rear 26×12.00-12 tires. These tires provide non-highway service with solid lug patterns for front and rear use on smaller or utility tractors. Best for: buyers needing a complete front-and-rear tire upgrade when working on uneven ground or ditch work. Limitation: different dimensions from the common 12.4/-38 sizing mean compatibility must be confirmed with your machine.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Tire type and construction: Tubes vs tubeless, radial vs bias, and load range affect traction, durability, and ease of mounting. Choose based on your soil type, load, and implement usage.
- Size compatibility: Verify that the tire size matches your tractor’s wheel rims and overall axle clearance. Front and rear tires may require different tread patterns and sizes.
- Terrain and tasks: For soft soils or heavy tillage, higher load ranges and aggressive lug patterns improve traction. For light field work or road-use, standard patterns may suffice.
- Rear vs front emphasis: Rear tires often handle heavier loads and traction, while fronts influence steering and steering stability. Consider a match that balances both ends of the tractor.
- Mounting considerations: Tube-type tires require tubes and careful installation to prevent air leaks. Tubeless options may simplify mounting and maintenance on compatible rims.
- Durability and lifespan: Radial tires generally offer better wear and smoother ride on uneven fields, but selection depends on price, availability, and farm tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does 12.4/-38 refer to in tractor tires? – It denotes tire width and rim diameter in inches and standard mounting specifications for 38-inch rims.
- Is a tubeless tire better than a tube-type for 12.4/-38? – Tubeless tires simplify mounting and maintenance, but tubed options can be common in older tractors; choose based on rim compatibility and preferred serviceability.
- When should I choose a radial tire over a bias-ply tire? – Radial tires typically offer longer wear and better traction on uneven fields; bias-ply tires can be adequate for light, traditional tasks and lower cost.
- How can I confirm compatibility with my tractor model? – Check your tractor’s user manual or consult the tire’s product specifications for rim width, diameter, and load ratings; ensure wheel clearance and fender clearance.
- Are inner tubes necessary with tubed tires? – Yes, tubed tires require inner tubes of matching size; ensure proper valve stem type and installation to prevent leaks.
- Do 12.4/-38 tires come in rear-only sizes? – Some models offer rear-oriented tires in similar sizing, but verify the exact size on your tractor’s rear axle to ensure correct fit.