Chains and ballast

[whistlepig]

There have been some recent posts on chains and ballast. One of the members asked me to post pics of my chains. I don't know if I have this picture posting thing correct but I'll try.

 

[TripleR]

Very nice setup:thumbsup:

 

[RoyJackson]

Fine job in posting the pictures...you've got that down pat!

Boy, those are some aggressive chains! Hope you aren't running on asphalt.

 

[whistlepig]

Thanks Roy and TripleR. The gentleman that asked me about posting the pics was concerned that I only had 2 3/4" tire to fender clearance before mounting these chains and 3/4" tire to fender clearance after mounting the chains. I have been on vacation this week and have moved and spread 10 tons of gravel and 5 tons of fill dirt with these chains on using the FEL. Zero problems with tire to fender clearance this week. I mounted these chains tightly and on top of that I added the chain tensioners. Even at that these chains "walk' a little side to side but always stay on top of the tire. No asphalt Roy. Just 1200' of gravel drive and barn lots. After a week these chains have started chewing up the concrete floor in my garage. I've got some rubber horse mats I'm going to put down.

 

[F1520]

Looks great! Nice pics and nice setup. :thumbsup:

I'm considering chains for this winter. I'll be pulling a rear blade with R1s in the rear, R4s in the front. Your tractor has MFWD? Do the rear chains give you all the snow traction you need, or have you thought about chains for the front, too?

 

[whistlepig]

Looks great! Nice pics and nice setup. :thumbsup:

I'm considering chains for this winter. I'll be pulling a rear blade with R1s in the rear, R4s in the front. Your tractor has MFWD? Do the rear chains give you all the snow traction you need, or have you thought about chains for the front, too?

I do have MFWD. Most posts that I have read advise against using front chains as they say it's too hard on the front drive train. Perhaps for steering only they may be OK if the MFWD isn't engaged. I'm sure there are those much better qualified to answer that have experience with chains on the front.

 

[whistlepig]

Whoops! I didn't answer the whole question. I haven't tried these in the snow yet because I just got them. I have been using these chains along with a new ballast box and the added traction of this chain/ballast box combo moving gravel and dirt I would guesstimate doubles my traction even with out engaging 4WD.

 

[RoyJackson]

Where'd ya buy them, whistlepig?

 

[whistlepig]

Where'd ya buy them, whistlepig?

I ordered them through: Buy Tire Chains & Snow Chains from the Traction Specialists©

 

[ctgoldwing]

That's a really nice setup Whistlepig! I have now make a decision to go with a rear snow blower or start searching for a similar ballast box.