Chains Winter Chains (TC40DA)

db2 · Sep 10, 2005

I'm thinking of purchasing some chains for the TC40 but I'm wondering if the R4s are too close to the fenders. Has anyone used chains on a similar setup and has clearance been an issue?

A suggestion for a chain manufacturer &/or retailer that provides sales and shipping from or to north of the border would be appreciated.

Thanks

NHWOODSMAN · Sep 10, 2005

Not quite sure if they will fit unless you flip your rims. I have been meaning to find this out for my TC40D as well. I bought my tractor in New Hampshire at Chappell Tractor sales and downstairs is a company called BBCHAIN http://www.bbchain.com/ Nice group of people, I am sure if you called (800-698-2640 or 603-673-3455) they could go measure a TC40 off the lot and see what they have to fit, heck they may already know!! And I don't see why any good retailer wouldn't send you chains up to Canada. Good luck and please post what you find out.

MadReferee · Sep 11, 2005

Try www.tirechains.com . Many TBN members have bought from them in the past. They have a great selection, the best all around pricing, and customer service too. Not sure if they ship to Canada but you can ask.

I found BB Chain to be on the high end of pricing and their selection is limited. However, they are sure nice for the emergency part. I am not sure if they will ship across the border.

PBinWA · Sep 11, 2005

I bought some V-Bar chains from Tirechains.com last year. They shipped them out very fast. They have my recommendation.

I have the same clearance issues with my Mahindra and just chose to get the front chains only. I don't have too much road to clear so I just take it easy and try not to stress anything out.

The big R4 tires sure look good (and probably help sell the tractor) but the manufacturer's are really screwing the customers by putting tires on these tractors that are too big and eat up all the fender clearance.

If you need traction on ice - go with the vbar chains. I'm not sure I'd ever buy anything else in the future. If my truck chains ever wear out I'm getting vbars for it too.

db2 · Sep 11, 2005

Fellas Thanks for the input. I'll do some phoning around next week. PBin I agree, I reluctantly accepted the tractor with R4's. So far they've performed for me but I do know that Ags give you more traction over all. I like the idea of the V-Bar as I only have a problem when there is ice under the snow (something we get often).

Still interested in anyone who has had experience with a TC40 & chains.

I'll post what the chain suppliers recommend.

Thanks

farmacist · Sep 11, 2005

Wait a year to buy chains. You will not need them. You will quickly learn to do without them unless you put yourself down the bottom of a ditch. Chains will tear up your fenders anyway. Try it this year without. Just keep some weight on your 3ph or load your tires. I live in upstate NY, TC35D, fel, loaded tires, 4wd, R4s,rear 7' blade, and I have never got it stuck. Good luck, Frank

db2 · Sep 11, 2005

Frank: Thanks for the input. I'm more worried about the little lady than I am about me getting into a situation. I have quite a hilly driveway and yard. Got the tractor last December and we had a few ice storms and thaws followed by snow. Even with a bucket of snow and a little weight up on the rear snowblower I had a bit of trouble. Nothing major but I'm more concerned about the wife using it under these conditions. But yeah I definitely do not want to tear up the fenders.

PoleClimber · Sep 11, 2005

I have a TC 35 with R-4's and I have chains for them. I would not use them but some of the roads I maintain have a 10-15 percent grade and these chains give me the confidence that I can make it up and back safetly. They are a pain to put on also. I attached a photo to give you an idea of the fit.

Bernie

db2 · Sep 12, 2005

Thanks Bernie, the photo is very helpful.

JJT · Sep 12, 2005

My local independent farm store builds chains cheaper than any mailorder. 3 years ago I picked up a set of double ring chains, the difference is amazing, (although the ride is a bit rough). I can go places in 2 wheel no diff lock that were impossible without the chains using 4wd and a locked rear diff. I have been stuck in the snow and it's a PITA, freezing your butt off digging your way out. If you have any grades at all, or if you are using a plow, get the chains. I'm using a blower and still using chains. My L3710 doesn't have much fender clearance, I keep the chains as tight as possible using rubber straps on the inside and outside of the wheels.