Chain

[RandyinTN]

I am going to need a new chain to go along with my 45 hp tractor. It will be used for dragging smaller logs on occasion, lifting things with the FEL, etc.

What grade and length do you recommend to start with?

 

[newbury]

I'm pleased with the HF 5/16" x 20 FT. GRADE 70 TRUCKER'S CHAIN for GP use.
I think about 10 years ago I was getting it for $20 on sale w/coupon, now it's usually $30 w/ coupon.

If you want special ends (choker, hooks with latches, self latching, slip etc.) you probably want to go elsewhere.

 

[houser52]

I keep a couple short ( 8' and 10') 1/4" grade 70 chains in the chain box. One has a logging C hook on one end and a twist lock grab hook on the other. The other has twist lock grab hooks on both ends.

I like shorter 1/4" chains because they're lightweight and handy to use for stuff like pulling up fence posts, dragging smaller trees or whatever. I have heavier chains if I need something stronger or bigger but the 1/4" are always there when I need them.

 

[oosik]

I use two 3/8" x 20' grade 70 chains for all around use. I have four 7/16" x 32' grade 100 that a friend gave me when he went out of the trucking business. They are, for me, just a tad bit heavy for every day use. I will drag them around a lot with my ATP to bust clods and smooth out ground. I've used them for pulling extremely large pine trees.

I would never spend any money on 7/16" - grade 100 chains. No need for something that heavy.

 

[jeff9366]

5/16" X Grade 70 chain is amply strong for any operational use with a 45-horsepower tractor.

$3.99 per foot at Tractor Supply Company last week. TSC also has Grade 70 chain fittings in 1/4" and 5/16" sizes.

Specialized chain fittings are at Ken's Bolt On Hooks:
Ken's Bolt on Grab Hooks <<Accessories>>
I use and like 5/16" Forest/Logging/Choker hooks.

Usually chain is somewhat cheaper at Rural King.

I suggest one 12' length and one 8' length, with a slip hooks on one end of each chain and a chain grab hook on the other end, so you can infrequently link them together in 20' length.

I too keep a 10' length of 1/4" X Grade 70 chain on the tractor for pulling 1-1/4" saplings out of the ground. On saplings 5/16" chain sometimes slips where 1/4" grabs.

Many use a $20 ammo box bolted to the rear of the tractor to store/transport chains. (Drill a rain weep hole.)

 

[Einthewoods]

I bought these and have been happy. Haven't needed anything more yet.

Amazon.com: 2 pack 5/16" x 2' G7 Tow Chain Binder Tie Down Flatbed Truck Trailer Chain: Automotive

 

[stuckmotor]

Lately, I use the HF 3/8"X 14' chain. Why? It's the only one I can find.

 

[Alan W.]

I have a couple 5/16 and 3/8 that are grade 70 and a couple of the HF 3/8 x14
I find different sizes and lengths handy for lifting and dragging and pulling.

 

[WranglerX]

Some interesting information here on hooks and clevis's...Might help you stay connected after getting your chains...

https://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/customization/400053-chain-hooks.html

For most chain use I have 5/16 and 3/8, mostly salvaged or bought at hardware store or yard sales, hooks and shackles from hardware store...

Dale

 

[bdog]

Rating wise you shouldn’t be able to break 1/4” chain with your tractor but you can. I have broken grade 70 1/4 chain. I think it is so small that it can easily be damaged which weakens it. 5/16” is a much better choice in my opinion. It is still plenty light to handle.