how to put chains on a john deere lawn tractor

John Deere lawn tractors are versatile machines that help make yard work easy, especially during winter. Installing chains on the tractor's tires can provide better traction and grip in snowy or icy conditions, ensuring that the machine can move easily and travel smoothly on slippery grounds. In this article, we will guide you through the simple process of putting chains on a John Deere lawn tractor, step by step.

Gather the Necessary Tools

Before putting chains on a John Deere lawn tractor, you need a few important tools including a wrench, wire cutters, pliers, and a pair of gloves. Additionally, you need to buy chains that would perfectly fit the size of the tractor's tires. Ensure that the chains you purchase meet your state's requirements, have the right clearance, and properly fit the tires for your tractor.

Install the Chains on Your John Deere Lawn Tractor

1. Begin by parking your John Deere lawn tractor on a flat surface and turning off the engine.2. Unfold the chains and lay them out on the ground, ready for installation. Confirm that they are free from any knots and tangles before placing them on the tractor's tires.3. Make sure that the side chains (cross chains) are installed at the right spots and stretched appropriately. This means that they should be placed just inside the tractor's tire tread area. Properly stretch the chains over both the front and rear wheels.4. Move your John Deere lawn tractor forward in a straight line and ensure that the chain hooks go over the tire wall on the opposite side. Then, adjust the chains so that they sit comfortably around the tires without any obstructions or interference with any other parts of the tractor. You may use a pair of pliers to tighten the tension levers on each of the side chain straps.5. Take a few steps back and visually inspect the installed chains to assess if any adjustments are necessary. You can also start the engine and drive a few feet to test if the chains are adequately fitting and securely in place.6. Repeat the above steps on the other set of tires until all ends of the chains are secure. Remember to chamfer the end of the hooks with wire cutters to prevent scratched tires.

Safety Tips

Remember to follow these safety tips when putting chains on your John Deere lawn tractor:- Put on safety gloves before handling the chains.- Consistently inspect the chains to ensure they're secure after driving a few feet.- Don't put chains on tires that are already damaged or worn out.- Only drive the tractor on surfaces that are suitable for chained tires.- Make sure that the chains are consistently coated with lubricant to prevent rusting.

Conclusion

Installing chains on your John Deere lawn tractor will save you stress and time when working on slippery grounds. Though the process may seem daunting, it's relatively simple and straightforward if you follow the steps carefully. These steps would undoubtedly help you install chains safely on your John Deere lawn tractor and make winter yard work much more comfortable and convenient.