I have very heavy studded chains on my rear wheels. I have found the easiest way is to tie a 2 foot or so piece of strong nylon cord onto one end of the chain so it forms a loop across the end. Then you lift the end of the chain up onto the back of the tire and loop the cord over the tread. The tread holds it on. The chain is stretched out behind the tractor with the outside surface facing up. Then you slowly drive forward stopping a few times to check the chain alignment on the tire. The chain stays on even as it passes under the tire. Once it starts to climb back up the bottom back side you stop and make the connections.
Works like a charm every time.
Works like a charm every time.