Tire Chains on Motor Graders in Snow and Ice Conditions

[MikePhua]

The Role of Chains in Grader Traction
Motor graders are essential for maintaining logging roads, rural highways, and mountainous access routes during winter. When snow and ice dominate the terrain, tire chains become a critical tool for traction, control, and safety. Unlike loaders or trucks, graders rely on precise blade control and consistent forward motion—both of which are compromised when wheels lose grip.
Chains provide mechanical engagement with the surface, allowing the grader to climb steep grades, steer predictably, and avoid spinning out. However, improper chain configuration can lead to mechanical stress, uneven wear, and even drivetrain failure.
Terminology Annotation
- Drive Chain: Internal chain within the tandem axle assembly that transmits torque from the differential to the wheels.
- Final Drive: The gear reduction system at the wheel end of the axle, responsible for torque multiplication.
- Studded Chains: Chains with welded or forged studs that bite into ice, offering superior grip.
- Spider Bungee: A multi-arm tensioning device used to keep chains tight against the tire surface.
Should You Chain All Axles
Chaining only one axle—especially on tandem-drive graders—can create uneven torque distribution. When one axle has chains and the other does not, the chained axle gains traction and begins to do all the work. This imbalance can overstress the drive chain and final drive components on that axle, leading to premature failure.
Operators have reported broken axles and bearing damage when running chains on only one side. The difference in effective tire diameter due to chain thickness also introduces rotational mismatch, further straining the drivetrain.
Best practice is to chain all four rear wheels if traction is needed for propulsion. If steering is compromised, chains on the front wheels may also be necessary.
A Story from the Mountains
In British Columbia, a semi-retired grader operator maintained remote logging roads with grades exceeding 10%. One winter, he ran chains on all four rear tires but struggled with steering. The following season, he added chains to the front wheels and found the machine far more controllable. After convincing his employer to invest in a full set, he chained all six wheels and reported no further traction issues—even while blading uphill in deep snow.
Chain Types and Configuration
Operators use different chain styles depending on terrain:

• Ladder Chains: Simple cross-link design, easy to repair in the field
  
• Studded Chains: Best for ice, aggressive grip but harsh on pavement
  
• Net Chains: Cover more surface area, reduce slippage on uneven terrain
  
• Square Link Chains: Hardened steel links for durability and ice penetration
  

For mixed terrain, studded chains on the rear and ladder chains on the front offer a balance between grip and maneuverability. Chains should be kept tight using spider bungees or chain jacks to prevent slapping and tire damage.
Maintenance and Installation Tips
To maximize chain life and protect equipment:

• Inspect chains weekly for broken links or excessive wear
  
• Keep chains tight using multiple tension points
  
• Avoid spinning tires while chained—this can shred rubber and damage chains
  
• Remove chains when traveling on pavement to prevent road damage and chain wear
  
• Store chains dry and off the ground to prevent rust
  

Operators have noted that loose chains can destroy tires by allowing the chain to rotate independently, grinding against the sidewall. One loader operator reportedly ruined a full set of tires this way and was dismissed for negligence.
Cost Considerations and Field Fabrication
Commercial chains can cost upwards of $1,200 per set, especially for studded or custom-fit models. Some operators fabricate their own ladder-style chains using bulk link stock and repair kits. While this reduces cost, it requires skill and time. Field-repairable chains are preferred in remote areas where downtime is costly.
In Nova Scotia, a grader fleet builds its own chains and reports significant savings. They use square link cross chains for ice and standard ladder chains for snow. Operators are trained to repair broken links on-site using bolt cutters and spare connectors.
Industry Trends and Tire Technology
As of 2025, tire manufacturers have introduced winter-specific grader tires with aggressive tread and silica compounds for cold grip. While these improve performance, they cannot replace chains in deep snow or ice. Chains remain the gold standard for traction in extreme conditions.
Some fleets experiment with carbide-tipped cutting edges to improve ice penetration during grading. These edges, while expensive, reduce the need for multiple passes and improve surface finish.
Conclusion
Chains on graders are not optional in serious winter conditions—they are essential. Chaining all drive wheels ensures balanced torque, protects drivetrain components, and improves safety. Adding front chains enhances steering, especially on icy grades. With proper tensioning, maintenance, and configuration, chains transform a grader from a liability into a winter workhorse. Whether navigating logging roads or clearing rural highways, full-chain setups offer the control and confidence needed to operate in the harshest environments.