Tire chains-looking for opinions.

robmc · Nov 16, 2013

I am in the market for a set of chains for my tractor. The tire size is 13.6-16. Any recommendations on where to purchase, style or manufacturer? Is there a better style or brand of tensioner?

rekees4300 · Nov 16, 2013

I got a set of tractor chains from these folks. Good chains and good service. Avoid the V-bar if you have concrete or asphalt.

https://tirechains.com/

newbury · Nov 16, 2013

There are a ton of threads on TBN about tire chains and many about different type of adjusters.
Try putting "tire chains" in the Google search box at the top right of the screen.
Also figure out what you want them for, snow, mud, ice?
I too bought mine from tirechains and I just use heavy duty black EPDM tarp straps from HF.

But you might want to get your order in soon because chains sometimes sell out.

moship · Nov 16, 2013

robmc,

I have a set of barely used chains in the "For Sale Section" if you're interested.
http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/private-party-ads/294501-tire-chains-13-6-16-a.html

joeyd · Nov 18, 2013

Another vote for tirechains.com, I use rubber tensioners on front and the spring tensioners from TC.com for the rear wheels. I plow a gravel driveway and a dirt road with some grade issues so I went with v-bar. I have had no problems even when it gets icy. I use OSB to protect the floor, I'm on my third winter with the same OSB.

Coyote machine · Nov 18, 2013

I use Aquiline MPC chains on my rear tires. Bought from Champlain Valley Equipment, Middlebury, VT.
They are good for snow/ice, but not designed to be used in the woods for the most part.

robmc · Nov 19, 2013

My tractor is four wheel drive and I have R-4 tires on it. Would you recommend using chains on both axles?

rekees4300 · Nov 19, 2013

robmc said:
My tractor is four wheel drive and I have R-4 tires on it. Would you recommend using chains on both axles?

I'd recommend on both axles if you have much ice and/or hills.

Coyote machine · Nov 20, 2013

robmc said:
My tractor is four wheel drive and I have R-4 tires on it. Would you recommend using chains on both axles?

I'd start with the rears and if you find it's inadequate then go for *fronts too. (*Not really recommended because of the way the wheels turn when in 4wd and the different axle ratios). YMMV.

TKSalty · Nov 20, 2013

joeyd said:
Another vote for tirechains.com, I use rubber tensioners on front and the spring tensioners from TC.com for the rear wheels. I plow a gravel driveway and a dirt road with some grade issues so I went with v-bar. I have had no problems even when it gets icy. I use OSB to protect the floor, I'm on my third winter with the same OSB.

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Joeyd,
I just bought chains for my tractor (about 9,000 pounds with both the loader and rear blade) and am planning to also put down wood to protect the garage floor, but I'm concerned that the OSB won't stand up to the melting snow on the floor. Do you think the OSB will be adaquate?