Lengthen tire chains

Chetman · #1 08-03-2014, 04:42 PM

Has anyone ran across the need of making tire chains fit different size tires? Any comments, suggestions or experience doing this appreciated.
I have a set of chains for 23x 8.50 tires. I'm wanting to use them on 24 x 10.50 tires.
I'm thinking four lengths of chain and four permanent connectors plus two removable connectors? The two removable connectors would be to return them to original. The other four connectors & two of the chains lengths

to continue the tread pattern.

J-Mech · #2 08-03-2014, 05:27 PM

Making them longer is no big deal. But you can't really make them wider. If you can find a set for a 23X10.50X12 and make them longer it would be better.

FWIW, new tire chains aren't really that expensive. Check out tirechain.com I linked up the ones for a 24X10.50X12.

olds45512 · #3 08-03-2014, 07:25 PM

tirechain.com is from johnstown pa which is about about 30 minutes from me, ive had 2 different sets of chains from them and have been very happy with the quality. i run the 2 link vbar and have tons of traction.

Chetman · #4 08-03-2014, 07:32 PM

Thanks for the link. They're a lot less $ than I was thinking. The width on the 23x8.50's will work. Barley. By the time I buy 8 lengths of chain and twelve connectors I'll be around $25. May be better to retire the old rusty ones. The 50# rear wheel weights I have should work ok. I did a test fit today.
I'll be using to plow snow. Should I need any weight in front? Or will plow be enough?

J-Mech · #5 08-03-2014, 07:51 PM

Ummm..... no the plow will be fine. You wouldn't gain anything with weight up front...... Unless your tractor has trouble keeping the front wheels on the ground for some reason.

FWIW, I really doubt that the 8.50 chains would stay on the 10.50 tire. I don't know if you've ever been around tire chains, but they overlap as far as they do for good reason.

What are you putting this stuff on?

Chetman · #6 08-03-2014, 08:04 PM

These would be for a 3205 that came with hydraulic 54" plow. It's pretty heavy and my front wheel weights wouldn't bolt up anyway.
I didn't think about the chains running off the tire when tight, but you're right. There's only about 1" overhang on each side. $10 shipping isn't bad , so for $55 I'll be all set with the dbl bar.
Ps... Got to try out the differential lock today and thinking it will make a great snow plow.

PaulS · #7 08-16-2014, 12:02 PM

Something to think of also is if when you have your chains installed and have several side links hanging free remove them or secure them to the side chain with heavy zip ties or wire. At speed those flopping links can hook the fender and cause a lot of damage to the fender. Do not ask how I know.