Go BottomR4 s and snow
 | Oliver
Join Date: Sep 2003 Posts: 210 Massachusetts 
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2007-02-17 139819
Ok, so I know now that R4's are not the best for snow, so what do I do? I have a 7510 that I use to plow my driveway and path to the manure pit using a 6 foot back blade and the FEL. We have about 20+/- inches of nice light snow. I find myself losing traction before I lose power. In fact, I just got stuck pretty good -- my tires were just spinning.
So, should I invest in chains? Look into changing to turf or ag tires?
Thanks!
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 | Chief
Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 4299 Southwest MiddleTennessee 
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2007-02-17 139820
Fill the tires and invest in a set of good quality chains. ....
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| Oliver
Join Date: Sep 2003 Posts: 210 Massachusetts
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2007-02-17 139822
Tires are filled. In terms of chains, I am assuming just on the rear will suffice -- is that correct?
Thanks! ....
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| Chief
Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 4299 Southwest MiddleTennessee
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2007-02-17 139823
That is what I would do. Not sure I would want a set of chains on the front if you are doing some heavy blading. The driving train for the front axle is not nearly as strong as the rear. You may want to look into adding more weight if the chains are not sufficient. I would think the chains will do the trick. In some cases front tire chains may have their place but be careful. ....
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 | DRankin
Join Date: Jan 2000 Posts: 5116 Northern Nevada
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2007-02-17 139825
For un-paved surfaces, R-4's and chains should do the trick. Paved surfaces, snow + R-4's are a bit trickier.
I would not mess with front chains just yet.... especially if you have split brakes to help with directional control.
I couldn't use front chains even if I wanted too. There isn't enough clearance between the tire sidewall and the steering knuckles on my Green Mochine.
I think you will be amazed at the difference in traction with the rear chain set-up. I was. ....
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| hardwood
Join Date: Dec 2002 Posts: 3583 iowa
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2007-02-17 139827
Seems to be the consensus around the board that turfs are about the best on snow, but switching from R-4's to turfs will probably cost you a bundle unless you find someone with an identical tractor wanting to trade. In most cases you not only buy the tires but the rims too. My thoughts on filled tires are a bit negative from past experiences with flats, etc. so that's up to you, but chains are your lowest cost and most effective solution. Leave the front's alone, you'll tear up your tie rod ends if the chains get a bit loose and sloppy, the rears will be plenty good enough to solve your problem. Keep warm. Frank. ....
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| Oliver
Join Date: Sep 2003 Posts: 210 Massachusetts
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2007-02-17 139832
Thanks for the thoughts! A quick Internet search turned up tirechains.com. A set for my tractor will run about $100 (I am inclined to buy the least expensive set -- I really need them about three times/year!). This sound about right? ....
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| Chief
Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 4299 Southwest MiddleTennessee
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2007-02-17 139834
Sounds like a winner to me. ....
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 | earthwrks
Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 3853 Home Office in Flat Rock, Michigan
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2007-02-18 139854
Another alternative to using most any thick-treaded tire on icey surfaces (not necessarily snowy) is ice racing studs. They're a carbide stud (screw actually) that is screwed into the tread with a drill driver. Looks like a typical 3/8" hex head sheet metal screw, only the head is slightly cupped to get more bite. They're easy in and out. We used them on ATV's and the hook-up to ice-covered pavement is phenomenal. In a pinch regular hex head sheet metal screws can be substituted, but they won't last as long. These studs are effective on front tires too, even R-1's where you need steering. I've seen snowmobile studs that bolt through the belt that were 1-1/2 to 3" long used for racing on frozen lakes---some use them on ice racing cars, trucks and ATV's. Talk about traction---it about throws the guys off when he punches the throttle! ....
Link: screw studs
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| JAZAK5
Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 276 coxsackie,ny
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2007-02-19 139855
I AGREE WITH CHIEF,TIRE CHAINS. YOU DONT NEED FRONT CHAINS,YOU CAN GET EXCEPTIONAL CONTROLL WTH YOUR REAR BRAKES , YOU WILL BE SURPRISED. ....
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