ATV tires on lawn tractor?

[VirginiaAgent]

I have a Husky 2348 lawn tractor. It has the stock smooth tread on the rear tires, which are 20x8x8.

I have a heavily sloped property and at some spots cannot get traction. I could go side to side, but then I'd risk tipping over.

Has anyone successfully mounted ATV tires and wheels on their riding mower? I'd like to raise the machine with larger diameter tires as well. As long as the wheel width is the same, it should fit on the axle I think. And according to other Husky models, the rear tires can be as large as 23 on that frame.

I'm willing to have some turf wear in order to get up and down the hills.

Thanks, VA

 

[Birdmayon]

Yes, it can be done. I put some Swamp Witches on my deere 332. They went right on and they held up well. I'd look at some higher ply ATV tires if you plan on using any rear implements on the tractor to help with the weight. But you should be fine running ATV tires.

 

[bontai_Joe]

Yes, you can run ATV tires on your tractor's wheels. If you go with taller tires, you will need to relevel your mower deck.

 

[ChuckinNH]

The HDAP tires now available on the larger garden tractors (heavy duty all purpose) are basically ATV tires. They won't put them on anthing that can be fitted with a loader since they are not strong enough in the sidewall for that, but you should be fine if you can find tires to fit.

 

[Johnagain]

Instead of changing wheels try to find a bar/chevron tread in the stock size tire. If you change to the much taller tier size it will greatly effect your quality of cut when you mow.

 

[archerm3]

Yes, you can run ATV tires on your tractor's wheels. If you go with taller tires, you will need to relevel your mower deck.

Instead of changing wheels try to find a bar/chevron tread in the stock size tire. If you change to the much taller tier size it will greatly effect your quality of cut when you mow.

Unless you do as the post above you says?

But taller tires will change your speed and torque ranges..

 

[sandman2234]

My Steiner uses chevron type tires, and for most part doesn't hurt the yard. (or maybe I don't notice???)
David from jax

 

[Hoosier_Daddy]

Hey, Put chains on. My old simplicity would break traction and going down the hill was not fun when this happened. I had chains on one spring and realized that I could hold the hill. You can tighten them up real good by putting bungie cords on each wheel on each side to take up the slack. Just don't park on bare concrete. Then you have rust...

Good Luck,

Tom

 

[kebo]

I have a similar problem as the OP and want to change the rear tires on my Craftsman mower to a more aggressive tread. I'm tired of the right rear tire spinning and going nowhere! My question is if I do change to a chevron or bar tread, or maybe even an ag tire, will it affect the ride quality? I don't want to make it ride any rougher than it does already on the rough spots. Anyone know??

 

[freeisforme]

ATV tires are an option but I'd stick with the original size if you can, too much of a change usually ends up with unsatisfactory results as far as speed and power.
Also, be aware that many or most ATV tires are softer than most tractor tires, they tend to be bouncy and soft sided, which can be unnerving on hills or slopes, especially on heavier machines.

I like the idea of chains or ag tires, chains are the best bet for all around use, even in the winter. AG tires are more for mud and loose dirt.