Log skidding chains

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I use 1/4". This oak stem weighs a few pounds shy of 2000#. The chain is 25 years old. I have broken it once but quik linked it up so its still going. Anything heavier I'd recommend 5/16". You'll be a lot more efficient if you used the 3 pt and get the traction aid of a raised log.

 

[fordoutback]

Just thought I would add, A grade 70 5/16 chain is rated considerably higher than a 3/8 grade 43 chain.

 

[dstig1]

That tree in the first photo must be a "dogwood"??

5/16" is fine, especially at your size tractor. Much easier to cart around than 3/8". If you can find the choker style hooks, they work better than regular slip hooks, IMHO. Chains stay in them a bit better - they have a more rounded shape.

 

[mvwicker]

That tree in the first photo must be a "dogwood"??

5/16" is fine, especially at your size tractor. Much easier to cart around than 3/8". If you can find the choker style hooks, they work better than regular slip hooks, IMHO. Chains stay in them a bit better - they have a more rounded shape.

View attachment 304097

The style on the left is what I use for chokers. Wallenstein sells them:
FX Skidding Winch Options - Choker Chains - Wallenstein

 

[turfgrass]

I looked at TSC for a chain to do the very same thing. Before buying I walked over to a Home Depot store and they had 20 ft of "tow chain" 5/16 with double hooks at half the price of putting a 12' one together from TSC. I hang a bag from my drawbar with the extra chain and pull it out and hook onto a drawbar hook as needed. Works great.

 

[crazyal]

I haven't looked lately but Lowes was selling US made 5/16" Gr70 chain for about the same price as the Chinese stuff TSC sells.

 

[bcp]

Doesn't pay to make chains.

The local farm supply has bulk 5/16 G70 for $4.67 ft, = $93.40 for 20ft, plus the cost of two hooks.

Same brand, grade, size, length ready-made tow chain with two hooks was $39.99

Bruce

 

[Diamondpilot]

I have all sizes but for pulling most down stuff I use 1/4" G70. Light and strong. For some real big stuff I use 3/8" but its heavy

Chris

 

[idaho2]

bcp,

Sounds like the price from Van-Port Rigging near Costco in Vancouver. I found rigging supply shops provide better pricing and will build what you want in the various lenghts and grades.

idaho2

 

[El Wood]

Doesn't pay to make chains.

The local farm supply has bulk 5/16 G70 for $4.67 ft, = $93.40 for 20ft, plus the cost of two hooks.

Same brand, grade, size, length ready-made tow chain with two hooks was $39.99

Bruce

Yup, found this out today. Ended up buying 2 20' 5/16 G70 tow chains for $37 each from Home Depot. Each chain has 2 hooks.