Product Description
Polyurethane press-on drive tire, OEM part number SU 13X5.5X8-FT-P, suitable for electric lift trucks. Features a flat-tread profile with outside diameter 13.00 inches, tread width 5.50 inches, and inside diameter 8.00 inches, designed for 8 inch rim mounting. Offers compatibility with various aftermarket and OEM cross-reference numbers.
Specifications: 13.000 inch diameter x 5.500 inch width (13.000" x 5.500" | 13 x 5.5 wheel | 13 x 5-1/2 | 330.20mm x 139.70mm)
Specifications
Material
| Tread Material | Polyurethane compound |
| Core Material | Steel reinforcement |
Part Numbers
| OEM Part Number | SU 13X5.5X8-FT-P |
| Cross-Reference Part Numbers | SU 13.5X5.5X8-TF-R; S130055080; SU13.5X5.5X8-TF-R |
| Equivalent/Interchange Part Numbers | Replaces Superior Tire S130055080; Equivalent to PolyAmerica SU13.5X5.5X8-FT-P |
Wheel Specifications
| Outside Diameter (in) | 13.000 |
| Width (in) | 5.500 |
| Outside Diameter (mm) | 330.20 |
| Width (mm) | 139.70 |
| Material | Polyurethane |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does FT-P stand for in the SU 13X5.5X8-FT-P part number?
A: FT stands for Flat Tread and P indicates the polyurethane material compound. The SU 13X5.5X8-FT-P is a polyurethane press-on drive tire with a flat tread profile, 13.00-inch outside diameter, 5.50-inch tread width, and 8.00-inch hub bore (330.20mm x 139.70mm). Flat tread offers a wide contact patch and balanced traction suitable for both drive and load wheel applications.
Q: Is the SU 13X5.5X8-FT-P compatible with Superior Tire S130055080?
A: Yes. The SU 13X5.5X8-FT-P is a direct replacement for Superior Tire S130055080 and cross-references to SU 13.5X5.5X8-TF-R and PolyAmerica variants. All denote the same 13x5.5x8 flat-tread polyurethane press-on tire. Confirm the part number on your lift truck manual or existing tire before ordering. Cross-references with different part number formats (such as 13.5 vs 13) should be verified with your supplier.
Q: Why would I choose the wider 5.5-inch width over the 4.5-inch tire?
A: The 5.5-inch width provides a larger contact patch and distributes load over a wider area, reducing pressure on the hub and rim. Wider tires are ideal for high-load applications (heavy pallet or long mast lift heights) and uneven floors where the extra width absorbs minor surface irregularities. Narrower 4.5-inch tires are lighter and more agile for smaller trucks or tight aisle operations. Choose based on your truck load capacity and floor conditions.
Q: How do I diagnose if the SU 13X5.5X8-FT-P is beginning to fail?
A: Early signs of failure include: (1) visible sidewall cracks or crazing patterns, (2) loss of grip or increased wheel slip during lifting, (3) a hardened, inflexible tire when pressed (should have slight give), (4) separation of the steel core from the outer polyurethane layer, or (5) visible oil staining or discoloration from thermal degradation. Any of these warrant replacement. Do not wait for complete failure as it can damage the hub or axle.
Q: What surface preparation is needed before installing the SU 13X5.5X8-FT-P?
A: Clean the hub bore and taper thoroughly with a wire brush or cloth to remove rust, scale, or old polyurethane residue. Any debris or irregular surface prevents proper seating and reduces grip. Inspect the hub for bending, cracking, or taper damage. If the hub is damaged, repair or replace it before installing a new tire. Lubricate the taper lightly with an anti-seize compound (not oil) to ease installation but maintain grip after seating.
Q: What is the expected service life of the SU 13X5.5X8-FT-P?
A: Under typical warehouse conditions (climate-controlled, smooth floors, moderate load), the SU 13X5.5X8-FT-P lasts 3-5 years before cracking or hardening requires replacement. Outdoor or high-temperature storage (above 80F) accelerates degradation and reduces life to 2-3 years. High-impact operations or rough floors can reduce lifespan significantly. Inspect quarterly and plan replacement when extensive cracking appears, even if the tire still functions.
