What do you recommend for plowing?Updated 9 months ago

Selecting tire chains for plowing involves several considerations to ensure safety, effectiveness, and compatibility with your vehicle and plow. Here's a guide to help you choose the right tire chains for plowing:

1. Know Your Tire Size

• Tire Dimensions: Note the exact size of your vehicle's tires, including tire width, aspect ratio, and rim diameter (e.g., 265/70R17). This information is typically found on the sidewall of the tire.
• Load Rating: Check if you have Load E tires or other specific ratings that might affect the choice of chains.

2. Vehicle Specifications

• Make and Model: Provide the make and model of your vehicle to ensure compatibility. Some vehicles have restrictions or specific recommendations for tire chains.
• Drive Type: Identify whether your vehicle is front-wheel drive (FWD), rear-wheel drive (RWD), or all-wheel drive (AWD). This will influence the type of chains you need.

3. Chain Type

• Link Size and Pattern: The most important choose of chain for plowing is purchase the heaviest duty chain available for your tire size. Choose chains with a suitable link size and pattern for heavy-duty use. Square link chains and V-bar chains offer excellent traction and durability, ideal for plowing.
• Material: Opt for chains made from high-quality steel preferably Boron Alloy (10B21 steel) for durability and resistance to wear and tear.

4. Clearance

• Check for Clearance: Ensure there is enough clearance between the tire chains and the wheel well, suspension components, and brake lines. 

5. Installation and Adjustment

• Ease of Installation: Choose chains that are easy to install and remove, especially in cold and snowy conditions. Some chains come with self-tensioning or built-in tensioning systems, making the installation process quicker and more straightforward.
• Adjustability: Look for chains with adjustable straps or cam tighteners to ensure a snug and secure fit.

6. Durability and Performance

• Heavy-Duty Design: For plowing, select chains designed for heavy-duty use. These chains should withstand the added stress and provide reliable performance in challenging conditions.
• Traction: Ensure the chains offer excellent traction on snow and ice, helping to prevent slipping and improving control while plowing.

7. Manufacturer Recommendations

• Consult the Manufacturer: Refer to the tire chain manufacturer’s guidelines and compatibility charts to ensure the chains are suitable for your vehicle and intended use.

8. Local Regulations

• Check Regulations: Verify local laws and regulations regarding the use of tire chains, especially for commercial plowing. Some areas may have specific requirements or restrictions.

9. Personal Preferences and Requirements

• Driving Conditions: Consider the typical conditions you will encounter while plowing. If you often deal with heavy snow or ice, choose chains that provide maximum traction and durability.

Conclusion

By considering tire size, vehicle specifications, chain type, clearance, ease of installation, durability, and local regulations, you can select the appropriate tire chains for plowing. Properly chosen and installed tire chains will enhance your vehicle’s traction and performance, ensuring safer and more effective plowing operations.