The Best Tire Chains for 2 Stage Snow Blower

Snow accumulates fast, and a 2 stage snow blower clears it quickly only when the wheels can find traction on packed snow and glare ice.

Adding the best tire chains for 2 stage snow blower improves grip, keeps the machine moving in a straight line, and reduces the strain on the drive system during heavy loads.

Snow Removal Wiki assembled this roundup from published specifications, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback so you can shop with confidence.

We focused on sizing, link design, materials, and owner feedback rather than promotional claims. The picks below cover compact snow thrower wheels and wider garden tractor fitments, so the right set for your machine is probably already on this list.

If you are still deciding between machine classes, a large snow blower guide explains how wheel size affects your options. Use the ranked list to compare, then read the buying guide for the details.

Best Tire Chains for 2 Stage Snow Blower Buying Guide

Match Tire Size Before You Buy

The first step is reading the tire size printed on the sidewall. Most 2 stage snow blower tires use a format like 13×4.1-6 or 15x5x6, while garden tractor-style machines may use 20x8x8.

The diameter and width must match the chain set, and the rim size needs to line up so the chain sits evenly across the tread.

Measure with the machine on a flat surface and check the owner’s manual for approved chains. A mismatch causes the chain to walk off or rub against the wheel housing.

That is why the best tire chains for 2 stage snow blower are sold by exact fitment rather than as a universal one-size-fits-all design.

If you are shopping for a new machine at the same time, the 24 inch snow blower roundup shows how different wheel sizes appear on current models. Compare that information with the dimensions on your existing tires before you order a chain set.

Link Style and Traction

Link style controls how the chain bites into snow. 2-link chains, like the picks in this roundup, place cross links close enough to provide steady traction without excessive vibration.

They also leave less room for packed snow to build up between links, which keeps the tire rolling smoothly.

Some owners prefer a more aggressive ladder or 4-link design for deep, wet snow. The tradeoff is a rougher ride and more wear on the drivetrain. For residential driveways, a good 2-link set usually offers the best balance.

You can extend the life of any chain by pairing it with the right snow blower accessories, including anti-skid shoes and drift cutters.

Material and Rust Resistance

Zinc plating is common on chains in this category because it resists the moisture, road salt, and calcium chloride that make bare steel rust quickly. Hardened cross links maintain their bite even after repeated use on icy surfaces.

Check the links and hooks before each storm. A small amount of surface rust is normal, but deep pitting weakens the chain and increases the chance of breakage.

If you wonder how long your equipment will hold up, the snow blower lifespan article explains what affects longevity and when parts need replacing.

Installation and Tension

Chains should be snug against the tire with only a slight lift at the top when you pull up on a cross link. Loosen the tensioners, center the chain across the tread, and secure the fasteners before moving the machine.

After the first few minutes of operation, re-check the tension. Snow and tire flex can loosen a chain that felt perfect in the garage.

Many owners find the job easier on a snow blower with skid shoes, because you can raise the housing and get clear access to the wheel.

Compatibility With 2 Stage Machines

Not every chain sold for tractors works on a 2 stage snow blower. The wheel housing, axle clearance, and fender design all affect whether a set can be mounted without interference.

Look for chains that sit tight to the tread and leave clearance around the differential and brake areas.

Traction matters even more on sloped pavement. Owners who rely on a long driveway snow thrower often keep chains mounted for the entire season, while others install them only before a storm and remove them once the pavement is clear.

For a quick overview of the wider market, the snow thrower brands comparison puts these fitment choices in context.

Why You Should Trust Us

Snow Removal Wiki reviews products the way an editor researches a major purchase: we gather specifications, weigh expert review consensus, analyze verified buyer feedback, and cross-check published data.

To keep the playing field level, we score every product on our 0 to 10 SRW Score using the same criteria across the category.

If you are still comparing machines, snow blowers at Amazon listings are a useful reference for how wheel sizes vary by class.

We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback.

That means our ratings reflect what owners and specialists actually report after real-world use, not a single staff member’s opinion.

Community threads like snow blower Reddit recommendations also help us spot patterns that may not show up in a spec sheet.

We are an independent publication, not a retailer. If you buy through a link on our site, we may earn a commission, but that never influences the rating or placement of a product.

Our goal is to help you choose the best tire chains for 2 stage snow blower without hype.

Final Thoughts

Best Overall: OakTen Set of 2 Snow Tire Chains for Lawn Tractor, Riding Mower, Snow Blower.

With the top SRW Score in this group, this set balances a secure fit, zinc plated 2-link design, and strong owner satisfaction across a range of garden tractor and snow blower sizes.

It is the choice we recommend when you want one dependable set that can move between compatible machines.

Best Budget Pick: Multisland 1 Pair Snowblower Tire Chains 13×4.1-6 13×4.1×6 13×4.10-6. For compact 2 stage machines with small tires, this set delivers dependable grip at a budget-friendly price.

Verified buyers highlight the easy install and solid bite on packed snow, making it a smart value pick.

Best for Standard 15 Inch Wheels: The ROP Shop Pair of 2 Link Tire Chains 15x5x6. This option suits owners with a 15x5x6 tire who want a straightforward 2-link chain without extra complexity.

Owner feedback points to good fit and stable traction on level driveways and light slopes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know which tire chains fit my 2 stage snow blower?

Check the tire size printed on the sidewall. The format usually lists diameter, width, and rim size, such as 13×4.1-6 or 15x5x6.

Choose a set built for that exact size, then make sure it clears the wheel housing and does not touch the frame when the machine turns.

Should I put chains on both wheels?

Yes, for balanced traction. Running chains on both wheels keeps steering predictable and reduces the load on the drivetrain. A single chain can work in an emergency, but it may cause the machine to pull to one side on packed snow.

How tight should snow blower tire chains be?

The chain should be snug enough to stay centered on the tire, with a small amount of flex when you press on a cross link.

Too little tension lets the chain slap the fender, while too much tension can stress the sidewall. Re-check the fit after the first few minutes of use.

Are 2 link chains better than 4 link chains?

For most residential 2 stage snow blowers, a 2-link design offers a smooth ride and enough grip on packed snow and ice.

4-link chains are more aggressive and can help in deep or wet snow, but they create more vibration and can be harder on the drivetrain.

Can tire chains damage my driveway?

Chains can scratch concrete if you run on bare pavement or if the cross links are worn. Use rubber tensioners, avoid spinning the wheels, and take the chains off once the pavement is clear.

Applying ice melt with a sidewalk salt spreader can also reduce the need to drive on exposed ground.

About the author