how to put snow chains on a garden tractor

If you own a garden tractor and live in an area with heavy snowfall, you may need to put on snow chains to tackle the snow-covered terrain. Snow chains can provide the extra traction necessary to get your tractor moving, even when the roads are slippery. However, putting snow chains on a garden tractor can be a challenging task if you've never done it before. In this article, we'll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to put snow chains on a garden tractor.

Step 1: Gather Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary materials. First and foremost, you'll need a set of snow chains that are compatible with your garden tractor's tires. Additionally, you will need a pair of gloves, pliers, and a kneeling pad or piece of cardboard to protect your knees from the cold snow.

Step 2: Position Your Tractor

The next step is to park your garden tractor on level ground. It's important to ensure that the tractor won't roll away when you're putting on the snow chains. If your garden tractor has a manual transmission, you should put it in gear and engage the parking brake. If it has an automatic transmission, make sure the parking brake is engaged.

Step 3: Install the Snow Chains

Put on your gloves and position the chains on the ground next to the tires. Begin the installation by fitting the chains around the tire. Make sure that the chains are evenly distributed around the tire and that the hooks on the inside of the chain face outward. Use the pliers to interlock the chains together. Repeat the process on the other tire.

Step 4: Adjust the Chains

Once the chains are in place, start the garden tractor and move it forward a few feet. This will help to adjust the chains around the tire. Next, lower the tire pressure to around 10 psi. This will make it easier to adjust the chains. Use the pliers to tighten the chains around the tire, making sure that there are no loose spots. Adjust the chains on both tires.

Step 5: Test the Chains

After installing and adjusting the chains, test them to make sure they are secure and effective. Move the tractor forward and backward a few times to see if the chains slip. If they do, adjust them again until they are tight and secure.

Conclusion

Putting snow chains on a garden tractor is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail to ensure that the chains are properly installed and adjusted. Be sure to follow all the steps in this guide to ensure your safety and the functionality of the chains. With a little practice, you'll be able to put on snow chains in no time and tackle the snow and ice for a worry-free winter.