Best Tire Chain repair tool

powerscol · Jan 7, 2016

Was trying to modify a set of older chains to get by using a chisel and channel locks, but figured out the right tool would be very helpful. In looking around prices range from $50 to $200+ for the 30" to 33" models. Are all of these created equal, or is there some junk out there to stay away from?

If you have one you like could you give me the brand and possibly where you got it?

Thanks

Keith

bigtiller · Jan 7, 2016

I bought the 33" one from tirechains.com. they work great but don't be tempted to use them as a pair of pliers on anything else. If used only as designed, they will last a long time.

Large Repair Pliar

Billrog · Jan 7, 2016

I have both sets & made up lots of chains with them they make the job easy and you'll never wear them out. I bought them an International truck dealership 20 years ago & when I drop in there for parts occasionally I noticed the price hasn't changed much at all $ 89. for large and $49 for next size down. So Bigtillers link is a good price.

jgayman · Jan 8, 2016

bigtiller said:
I bought the 33" one from tirechains.com. they work great but don't be tempted to use them as a pair of pliers on anything else. If used only as designed, they will last a long time.

Large Repair Pliar

I also have the 33" Extra Large chain tool from Tirechain.com. It is worth its weight in gold when it comes to working with the 3/8" chains. Even with this monster tool it sometimes takes all my strength to open and close a link. I cannot imagine working with chains without this tool.

PILOON · Jan 8, 2016

Also have that 33" tool, as said simply great to work with.
I was lucky as I snapped it up at a yard sale for peanuts but would not be without it now.

powerscol · Jan 10, 2016

One will soon be on its way to me. I'm getting chains for the front of my Bobcat from Quality Chain, Snow Tire Chains from the Largest Tire Chain Wholesaler in North America | , and he is giving me a great discount on one. Great folks to work with.

Cord · Jan 13, 2016

Not only do I have the 33" tool and will attest to all the things that have been posted above, but I also have a set of skid steer chains. At first I tried making a set from som 3/8" tractor chains and they broke within minutes. 4 hours later and after a couple of repairs the chains were junk. Desperate I then tried another set from a John Deere dealer. Despite the Deere logo I noticed they said "Made in China" on the bag. Sure enough, killed them in less than a day. The skid steers are just that hard on chains. Realizing that I was wasting time and money, I finally poneyed up for a quality set of chains: Skid Steer Tire Chains | Free US Shipping | Global Shipping available they're also listed on ebay: Rud Ladder Pattern 12 16 5 10mm Skid Loader Tire Chains | eBay Apparently these chains are made by RUD chain using components sourced in Germany and then assembled in Iowa. I've had these chains for 3 years now and they're holding up great. The only problem that I've had is with the side adjusters getting damaged. The links the adjuster clip into are not welded and open up. When the clip opens up then the adjuster releases and gets run over until it's ruined or lost. Because there are adjusters on both sides (and I run tensioners) the chains don't come off. I currently have the 10mm 4 link but I'm looking into the costs to upgrade to a 2 link.

Fallon · Jan 14, 2016

Do the bigger tools work well on smaller chain as well as the bigger chain?

I was disappointed to realize the R4s on the front of my 3500lbs Kubota are classified by tire chains.com as lawnmower tires with corresponding chain options. I'd want the beefier tool for rear chains or future machines, but also want to add a couple crossbars to the end of my 2link Vbars on my current chains up front where there is a gap.

powerscol · Jan 14, 2016

Fallon
Quality Chain has a heavier set to fit our front r4 tires. I have a set coming. (see my other thread on chains revisited) Cant help on the tool until mine arrives, then I will have the answer too.