Chains Rear chains on 4WD

[jsf729]

Will the installation of chains on the rear of my Kubota B5200D 4WD change the front to rear ratio enough to abnormally affect it? I'd prefer 2 link spacing, but maybe 4 link may be kinder to the drive train. BTW- I have turf tires all around. Thanks in advance.

 

[RoyJackson]

You'll be fine with chains just on the rear tires.
I don't think it would matter if you used the 2 link or 4 link.
I have the 4 link since I'm on a fairly level drive. Also, the 4 link chains are less weight (still heavy though) and cheaper. Bumpier ride though...
BTW, you may find (as I did) you won't really need that front wheel drive assist when chains on the rear tires.

 

[jsf729]

Thanks Roy. Never thought about that- going with 2WD it's a non-issue. My snow setup is FEL with rear blade, so I'll have some decent weight in the rear to help

 

[RoyJackson]

Thanks Roy. Never thought about that- going with 2WD it's a non-issue. My snow setup is FEL with rear blade, so I'll have some decent weight in the rear to help

And, where you are at (south of me), we don't see many of those really heavy snows (like we got in Feb 2010). A serious Nor'Easter every 3-5 years is about it.

Since you're in central MD, I reckon you're in Baltimore, Carroll, Hartford or Howard County. Try www.tirechains.com as a source. Good people and located in west central PA so shipping costs won't be too bad.

Does your Kubota have steering brakes? My Deere 4400 does and a jab to the appropriate brake keeps me on th straight and narrow.

 

[CharlieR]

I'll suggest Tire Chains by TireChains.com also.
I bought 2 link for my Kubota B7200 with turf tires and keep them on year round as they are a real help in mud (of which we've had too much of this year in NH).
I use 2WD most of the time and step on the differential lock once and a while before getting into 4WD.
I think it's just a little easier on the hardware and front tires.
BTW my rear tires are loaded as well - nice and stable.

 

[jsf729]

Hi Charlie,
I've ordered from them before for my previously owned BX24 and they are great (even though their chains are made in China). I'm getting ready to order again for my B5200d. I think that I will opt for the 4 link since my driveway is not that steep. My property stays muddy through the spring and winter (when it's above freezing) and my other application is in my acre of woods during the winter. Roy's advice about the weight difference is also a consideration at my age. Thanks for your input.

 

[jsf729]

Yep- I'm in Carroll. I've used tirechains.com before and am getting ready to order again, which is the reason for my original post. My Kubota does have steering brakes, but I haven't had a chance to master them yet. I had a (HST) BX24 that I had to sell for financial reasons so I was a bit spoiled. But I look forward to lots of practice on my 5200 :licking:

And, where you are at (south of me), we don't see many of those really heavy snows (like we got in Feb 2010). A serious Nor'Easter every 3-5 years is about it.

Since you're in central MD, I reckon you're in Baltimore, Carroll, Hartford or Howard County. Try www.tirechains.com as a source. Good people and located in west central PA so shipping costs won't be too bad.

Does your Kubota have steering brakes? My Deere 4400 does and a jab to the appropriate brake keeps me on th straight and narrow.

 

[RoyJackson]

Yep- I'm in Carroll. I've used tirechains.com before and am getting ready to order again, which is the reason for my original post. My Kubota does have steering brakes, but I haven't had a chance to master them yet. I had a (HST) BX24 that I had to sell for financial reasons so I was a bit spoiled. But I look forward to lots of practice on my 5200 :licking:

Using steering brakes (for what we'll be using them for) isn't hard. I just jab the appropriate brake if the tractor starts going sideways.

 

[jsf729]

I've read that you have to be careful about rolling the tractor- especially at higher speed. Your advice about "jabbing" the pedal is appreciated. I'll be purchasing a RMM in the spring and I've heard that steering brakes are very useful with it.

 

[RoyJackson]

I've read that you have to be careful about rolling the tractor- especially at higher speed. Your advice about "jabbing" the pedal is appreciated. I'll be purchasing a RMM in the spring and I've heard that steering brakes are very useful with it.

That "rolling the tractor" when using steering brakes is more of a problem when transporting down the road in a road gear (close to tractor's top speed). You need to make sure the brakes are coupled together when transporting over the road.
For what we're doing, I doubt we're in any danger (unless you plan on plowing at top speed).
I've never used my steering brakes when mowing (I have a rear finishing mower). I'm going to have to try that next mowing season.