Using Tire Chains on Skid Steers and Compact Equipment

[MikePhua]

The Role of Tire Chains in Seasonal Operations
Tire chains have long been a practical solution for improving traction in adverse conditions. Originally developed for early automobiles navigating snow-covered roads, chains quickly found their way into agricultural and construction machinery. For skid steers and compact loaders, tire chains offer a cost-effective way to enhance grip on ice, packed snow, and certain types of mud—especially where the ground has a firm base.
Unlike tracks, which distribute weight and reduce ground pressure, chains focus on bite and penetration. They wrap around the tire tread and sidewall, creating a mechanical interface between rubber and terrain. This is particularly useful in winter operations, where frozen surfaces can render standard tires nearly useless.
Comparing Chains to Tracks in Mud and Snow
Operators often debate whether chains outperform tracks in muddy conditions. The answer depends on soil composition and machine weight. In deep, soupy mud with no bottom, tracks offer superior flotation and prevent the machine from sinking. However, in firm-bottomed mud or frozen ground, chains can provide better traction without the ground disturbance caused by repeated track passes.
Advantages of chains over tracks:

• Easier to install and remove
  
• Lower upfront cost
  
• Less damage to turf or paved surfaces when used properly
  
• Better suited for intermittent use in seasonal conditions
  

Disadvantages:

• Reduced flotation in soft ground
  
• Potential for chain slippage if not tensioned correctly
  
• Increased wear on tire sidewalls if improperly fitted
  

A forestry contractor in Minnesota reported using chains only on the rear tires of his skid steer during winter logging. Since most of the machine’s weight sits over the rear axle, this setup allowed the front tires to slide while the rear provided directional control and braking.
Types of Chains and Their Applications
Several chain designs are available, each suited to different terrains and machine types:

• Ladder chains: Basic cross-chain design, ideal for snow and ice
  
• V-bar chains: Include welded steel bars for aggressive grip on ice and hard-packed surfaces
  
• Diamond chains: Provide continuous contact and smoother ride, reducing vibration
  
• Studded chains: Used in extreme ice conditions, often on graders and loaders
  

For skid steers, V-bar and diamond chains are most common. They offer a balance between traction and ride quality, especially when operating on mixed terrain.
When selecting chains:

• Match chain size to tire dimensions (e.g., 12-16.5 or 14-17.5)
  
• Choose hardened steel for durability
  
• Use tensioners or bungee cords to prevent slippage
  
• Inspect chains regularly for broken links or uneven wear
  

Installation Tips and Safety Considerations
Installing chains on heavy equipment requires planning and caution. Ideally, chains should be laid flat behind the tire, then pulled forward as the machine rolls slowly. Once positioned, the operator secures the chains using hooks or cams and adjusts tension evenly across the tire.
Safety tips:

• Wear gloves and eye protection
  
• Avoid installing chains on uneven or icy surfaces
  
• Never operate the machine with loose or dragging chains
  
• Check clearance between chains and fenders or hydraulic lines
  

Some operators prefer to install chains indoors or on dry ground before winter sets in. This reduces the risk of injury and ensures proper fit before the chains are needed.
Field Anecdotes and Practical Experience
A Missouri-based operator shared that tracks tore up his worksite when running the same path daily. Switching to chains allowed him to maintain traction without excessive ground damage. He found that chains worked well in snow and firm mud but were less effective in deep clay.
Another user in South Carolina noted that high-flotation tracks with wide pads made less mess than chains in soft terrain. However, he acknowledged that chains were easier to remove and store when not needed.
In northern logging operations, chains are often used selectively—rear tires only, or on one side for directional control. This approach balances traction with maneuverability and reduces wear on the drivetrain.
Conclusion
Tire chains remain a valuable tool for skid steer operators navigating snow, ice, and firm-bottomed mud. While not a replacement for tracks in all conditions, chains offer flexibility, affordability, and seasonal adaptability. By selecting the right chain type, installing them properly, and understanding terrain limitations, operators can improve safety and productivity without compromising ground integrity. In the ever-changing landscape of compact equipment, traction is not just a feature—it’s a strategy.