Tire Chains For Ice Fishing Question

[Everclear]

I have an Articat 400 4x4. During early season on glare ice

I experience traction problems and steering problems. Thinking about getting tire chains. Would there be any problems putting them on the front tires to help with the steering or should I keep them on the rear only?

[MNice]

I use sheet metal screws in the lugs of my tires, works great. 2x4 polaris gets me arond real nice.

[snowfighter]

I shortened up a set of 15 inch car tire chains worked like a charm and alot cheaper then buying ATV chains.

[mozy]

I tried sheet metal screws, but the only lasted a couple weeks before most of them wore off. I didn't use grade 8's, but I might try them this year.

[Everclear]

My question was more mechanical... Is there any reason why I shouldn't put them on the front vs. the back?.

[croixflats]

You can put them on the front with no problems I would think. The reason for the back is there is more weight and downward pressure on them for more effectiveness.

[ScoutII]

If you use the machine for ice fishing and just around the yard, put all 4 on. We run an Arctic cat with all 4 on, when the snow gets deeper you won't regret it.

[fishnhooks]

I run all 4 on my Sportsman. I like being able to steer better.

"hooks"

[Dozer]

The only problem with them on the front only is the back end will come around on you all the time. I dont think you would run into any mechanical problems on the front though. Try it both ways and see which you like best.

[ewirz]

For what its worth....I was told by a dealer (Polaris) that I shouldn't put chains on only the front, either rear or all 4. I guess it has to do with how the 4x4 engages and if they are only on the front tires, it puts a lot of stress on the axels and u joints. Thats for a Polaris sportsman. Not sure if it applies to other brands or if he was just trying to get me to buy another set of chains....

ERW

[luv2fish]

This will be my 2nd year with the 4-wheeler on ice. I did not use it alot last year, but also had no problems. What would you expect to pay for a set of chains? Any good places to go pick them up?

Thanks

[bonehead99]

Bought some at Gander last year for about $35 a set. They worked well.