Tractor tire Snow Chain Install

[powerscol]

I thought I would start a new thread on my install. I have a Bobcat CT 235 with filler 15x19.5 rear and 25x8.5x14 front. Both are R$ tires. I ordered an H-bar set from Quality Chain after a long search and from past experience. I wanted something stronger than the typical garden tractor tire chain category that the front tire size usually showes up in.
First pictures are of what I bought.



First picture shows the weight of the chain the rest are of the order including the tensioner and chain repair tool I got.

Next post will be the install

 

[powerscol]

I knew the chains would be long based on the other tire sizes they fit. I jacked up the front using the bucket and draped the chains over. I wanted the inside high to clear the steering ball joint. The S hook with into the cross link chains at the proper length, but the outside seem a bit long, even with the tensioner. The photos were taken after about 300 yards of running. I also temporarily tied up the excess length to check the adjustment.



I also will look into filling the gap where things are connected.



So far I am considering shortening the cross links an inch (one link) so they ride a higher and take out some of the side slack. I can locally get extra chain at Tractor supply to fill the gap using shackles and pin connectors.

I have worked with truck chains and garden tractor ones, but I am learning here.

Any other help would be appreciated.

 

[jgayman]

I thought I would start a new thread on my install. I have a Bobcat CT 235 with filler 15x19.5 rear and 25x8.5x14 front. Both are R$ tires. I ordered an H-bar set from Quality Chain after a long search and from past experience. I wanted something stronger than the typical garden tractor tire chain category that the front tire size usually showes up in.
First pictures are of what I bought.

View attachment 453995

I could use some tensioners like that. Can you tell me the part number of the green tensioner you ordered? I looked on the Quality Chain website and did not see any green one's listed. Unfortunately they do not show which tensioners are for which diameter wheels.

Thanks!

 

[dragoneggs]

Looking good! My attentive wife bought me chains first xmas after I bought my BX and we haven't had appreciable snow accumulations since. I have found them to be very effective. :laughing:

 

[skyhook]

I don't understand "why" these tire chain company's can't seem to get their act together when it comes to chain "sizes" for specific tires. Don't these places have "molds" to ensure proper fitting of chains, I mean, we pay enough for these chains, they should fit like a glove when you get them, but NO, they always seem to have to be modified...sheeeesh.

 

[powerscol]

I could use some tensioners like that. Can you tell me the part number of the green tensioner you ordered? I looked on the Quality Chain website and did not see any green one's listed. Unfortunately they do not show which tensioners are for which diameter wheels.

Thanks!

Part # is 0213 picture #32 page 81 of the catalog. If you give them a call they are very helpful

 

[powerscol]

I don't understand "why" these tire chain company's can't seem to get their act together when it comes to chain "sizes" for specific tires. Don't these places have "molds" to ensure proper fitting of chains, I mean, we pay enough for these chains, they should fit like a glove when you get them, but NO, they always seem to have to be modified...sheeeesh.

I believe it is more cost effective to have them fit various sizes for production. I don't mind adjusting, but before I cut I want to know a bit more of what I am doing. For my rear tires I am getting a quote on a custom job for an exact fit. Even with custom, depending on tire pressure you will get a different fit too.

 

[Billrog]

I sent the chain guy the size of my tires and the chains came perfect no extra links took 1/2 hr. to install they were nice and tight and after 4 tanks of fuel still no necessary.

 

[GPintheMitten]

I sent the chain guy the size of my tires and the chains came perfect no extra links took 1/2 hr. to install they were nice and tight and after 4 tanks of fuel still no necessary.
View attachment 454090
View attachment 454091

Where did you get your chains?

Putting chains on is a PITA. If I were to buy chains I want chains, not a project.

 

[powerscol]

Does anyone have any fitting tricks they have learned. As I had the front end lifted by the bucket, I draped them over each tire and got the S-hook to latch. I think I should have paid a bit more attention to make sure the chain was centered before doing the font cam-lock. Thoughts?

However the good thing is I had to upgrade my bolt cutters - my 18" one would not cut the hardened steel used in the 3/16 side chain so I upgraded to a 24" model rated for 3/8" hardened steel (grade 8 bolts). If it does not work I can take it back.