Table of Contents
What size chains do I need for my tractor?
Measure the distance to the axle center. That’s the radius of a circular side chain, that radius times 2 pi (6.28) is the minimum length of the side chains for that length cross chain. You probably want 4 to 6″ more length on the side chains. I have a set of chains I ought to do that to.
How do I know what size snow chains to get for my tires?

The first number indicates tire width, the second gives you the tire height ratio (sidewall height as percentage of width) and the third denotes the diameter of the wheel expressed in inches. This information is critical in determining which snow chain size will fit your tire.
How much does a snow chain cost?
$40 to $100: Semi-auto or “assisted” fitting tire chains will cost between $60 and $80, while self-centering chains with auto-tensioning will be a little bit more expensive for an average passenger vehicle. $100 and up: Tire chains for SUVs and pickup trucks tend to be pricier because they are bigger.
How are tractor tire chains measured?
- TREAD WIDTH. Measure the outside width of the tread. In the example above the tread width is 4.5 inches.
- TIRE DIAMETER. Measure the outside width of the tire. This measurement is done horizontally across the middle of the tire.
- SIDEWALL HEIGHT. Measure sidewall height of the tire.
Can tire chains be too big?
You’ll need to Register first of course. Too big will get loose and end up wrapping round your axle or flinging off into paintwork. Rubber tensioners ( you do have these right? – essential. ime with chains) may help and/ or cutting down by a few links.
Can I use snow chains that are too small?

Never attempt to use chains that are too large or too small, as this could result in dangerous driving and damage to your car. Install your chains & test them on a snowy or slippery road before you really need them.
Can you use bigger snow chains?
How many links are in a 24.5 tire chain?
Tire Size: 11 x 24.5. Side Wall Chain Diameter: 7 Millimeters. Number of Cross Links Chains per Tire Chain: 14.
How many links are in a 22.5 tire chain?
14
Tire Size: 11 x 22.5. Side Wall Chain Diameter: 7 Millimeters. Number of Cross Links Chains per Tire Chain: 14. Cross Link Chain Diameter: 7 Millimeters.
Do tractor tire chains help in mud?
In general, chains best suited for mud use are the HD ones with larger link size. It’s not about traction, as any set of real chains (Not cable chains…) will do wonders in mud, it’s about durability. Mud and associated offroad driving puts a lot more stress into the chains than snow driving.
Do tire chains help in deep snow?
Tire chains are well known for their effectiveness on both ice and snow, and their adaptability and inexpensiveness. They provide particularly good grip in deep snow conditions and situations where ice can spell slippery disaster.
Should tire chains be tight or loose?
The chains should be tight on the tire. And, be sure to stop if you hear them making any contact with your vehicle. If your chains are still loose, unhook the bungee and adjust the red hook straight across from the chain guide. Unhook and reattach to the tightest position on one of the three gold chain links.
Do you put snow chains on the front or back?
Place the separated chains by the tires: for a front-wheel-drive vehicle, the chains should go on the front two tires, and for rear-wheel-drive vehicles, on the rear two wheels.
What happens if snow chains are too big?
Never attempt to use chains that are too large or too small, as this could result in dangerous driving and damage to your car. If you are unsure of what size tires you have, you can find the sizes printed on the sidewall of each of them.
Does wheel diameter matter for snow chains?
Note that if you use a snow chain with too small a diameter, then it can foul the brakes or steering components on the inside of the wheel with serious consequences.