Chains Tire chains

loopyl · Feb 24, 2007

I just purchased a L4400 with a backblade to plow my 0.8 mile uphill driveway. I have R-4 tires and have a hard time getting up the hill with a foot plus of snow. I was calling around to find some which is almost impossible this time of year and one of the service people told me not to get chains with my 4WD. He said it will destroy the front end of my tractor. On this board it seems many do put chains on and no one makes mention of this problem. Does anyone know about this?

MadReferee · Feb 24, 2007

Putting chains on the rear tires should be all you'll need. TireChains.com is a popular place to get chains. Good company, good products, good service. I would recommend 2 link ladder chains for the most traction. Also spend the extra and get the heavy duty tensioners, you will be glad you did.

Here is a picture of my B2710 with R4's and 2-link ladder chains.

loopyl · Feb 24, 2007

Does anyone know if you can do damage if you use the rear chains?

MadReferee · Feb 24, 2007

Chains have been used on the rear wheels of tractors since forever. If rear chains were continually causing problems everyone would have heard about it. Never heard of anyone having such a problem with rear chains, other than maybe rubbing the inside fender, which is why no one has yet to respond to your query. If your dealer said this then he was just yanking your chain.

Chains on the front is a completely different issue. Front axle loading could take place which would cause permanent damage to front end components. Most tractor manufacturers do not recommend front chains when in 4wd.