Are tractors the most useful things ever invented?

[California]

Here's a thread over in Owning/Operating that links to rollover photos. Along with LMTC's reference, this should be required reading for any new owner.

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/owning-operating/89211-tractors-trouble.html#post997857

 

[AndyM]

I'm starting to wonder how I made it so long without one.

Then, a terrific windstorm Monday night toppled a good-sized maple tree in our front yard, and, well, I'll let the pictures do the talking about the tractor's usefulness.

Yep...
The only thing more useful than having a tractor is having TWO tractors, especially when just ONE won't do!
(see attached photo)

 

[greatrandini]

Just what was u using to pull that tree with? I mean what on your tractor did you attach the chain to?

 

[RobJ]

Nor am I. But does anyone ever use a snubber(?) on long chains like that? I'm not sure if that's the correct term, but what I'm talking about is a line woven through the chain links every few feet, and tied off at each end independently of the chain with enough length to still be slack when the chain is under strain.

Then if the chain parts it snaps back along the line instead of whipping around and possibly causing serious damage, injury, or death.

With the tractor or ATV's I really only watch when I get lazy and grab a 1" nylon strap to pull some stuff around. But still most of the stuff is real light and no load on anything. I don't think my tractor or any CUT could even break a 3/8 or maybe even a 5/16" chain much less a 2" HD strap. It'd just stop the tractor and spin. And I've never been a fan of the running start and jerk method. It's about like dragging a fingernail on a chalkboard. Or worse!!! Using ETHER!!