My snow removal/traction dilemma

[McMXi]

@chim & @HorsPower, nice grooving job there!

There are lots of tire siping threads on this forum, but I'll drop some images of my R4 tires here too and also make the claim that siping makes a big difference to traction. My intent was to create blocks that can compress independently of the blocks around them to improve the ability of the contact patch to conform to the road surface. The grooves also provide additional "bite" of course.

 

[Bearcatrp]

Is there a kit for sale to sipe tires? Is there a specific depth to sipe?

 

[je1279]

Is there a kit for sale to sipe tires? Is there a specific depth to sipe?

This (or something similar) is what I believe most use. There are also professional models that cost up to $700.

Tire Groover

 

[GreensvilleJay]

hmm, router with ball cutter should work fine ???

 

[je1279]

hmm, router with ball cutter should work fine ???

I suppose, if you like to live dangerously.

 

[chim]

Some guys use an Ideal groover with the blade flipped.

 

[torch]

Studs (and to some extent, metal chains) can actually reduce traction on hard pavement. They are great if you are leaving a layer of hard snow or ice that they can dig in to. Siping is more effective on a broader range of surfaces. Interestingly, turf tires tend to outperform all other (non-siped) tractor tires in winter because of their finer tread pattern.

Depending on typical depth and wetness of snow, length of drive, annual accumulation etc. a snowblower does offer certain advantages as well. Not the least of which is less pushing and therefore traction issues. Not a cheap solution though and putting a snowblower on a tractor is a great incentive to get a cab...

 

[TerryKing]

What about siping Turf tires??

 

[torch]

What about siping Turf tires??

Doesn't seem to be necessary. The blocks are already small and have much more contact area than other styles.

 

[Russell King]

What about siping Turf tires??

See this website (that was mentioned in some other thread). The tires are closer to turf and they have siping. But a different type of siping than shown in this thread (very small)

Nokian Tyres Hakkapeliitta TRI / Nokian Tyres

www.nokiantyres.com

 

[DustyRusty]

@chim & @HorsPower, nice grooving job there!

There are lots of tire siping threads on this forum, but I'll drop some images of my R4 tires here too and also make the claim that siping makes a big difference to traction. My intent was to create blocks that can compress independently of the blocks around them to improve the ability of the contact patch to conform to the road surface. The grooves also provide additional "bite" of course.

View attachment 146850

View attachment 146851

View attachment 146852

Do you remember the size of the sipping cutter that you used? I have found that they have a wide variety of sipping cutters available, and even have a sipping head that will put fine grooves into the rubber. I located a tool and now I need to get the correct cutter head and cutter blade.

 

[McMXi]

Do you remember the size of the sipping cutter that you used? I have found that they have a wide variety of sipping cutters available, and even have a sipping head that will put fine grooves into the rubber. I located a tool and now I need to get the correct cutter head and cutter blade.

I think I used a #4 (7/32") but @pokey1416 might be able to confirm. These are the type of cutting blades that came with the kit that @pokey1416 mailed me.

https://www.speedwaymotors.com/Complete-Tire-Grooving-Siping-Tool-Kit-Fit-Ideal-Groover-Siper,358870.html

 

[DustyRusty]

Do you remember if the knife was rounded at the end or square? The #4 is available in both round and square tipped.

 

[chim]

I used a #4 round bottom and cut to around 3/8" deep. The kit I bought has both #4 round bottom and #8 square bottom blades. When the blades are fastened into the tool, they cut straight-walled grooves. The blades are spread until fastened. I'm thinking about playing around with the wider blades in the Spring.

 

[pokey1416]

Sorry, a bit late but here’s a pic of the tip we used. I didn’t use enough heat and broke a couple I think @McMXi dialed the heat up and had no problems.

 

[D2Cat]

Sorry, a bit late but here’s a pic of the tip we used. I didn’t use enough heat and broke a couple I think @McMXi dialed the heat up and had no problems.

View attachment 148964

How do you "dial the heat up"?

 

[pokey1416]

How do you "dial the heat up"?

There’s 2 or 3 heat settings on the tool I have. I haven’t looked at it in awhile.

 

[D2Cat]

There’s 2 or 3 heat settings on the tool I have. I haven’t looked at it in awhile.

Interesting. You must have the "race car" model. I must have a cheaper model. It has no temperature adjustment. You just let it get hot and move at the speed that allows the rubber to be cut out. There is a not in the instructions to be sure to lay the head (where the cutter in clamped) flat on the rubber to transfer heat the best. Don't remember the wattage, but works good.

 

[Sidekick]

I have r14s and my driveway has a solid layer of ice from last weeks rain. I am amazed how they grip the ice, even on my hill they feel safe in 4wd. A couple pics from yesterday where you can see the ice. Getting ready to plow the 8 inches we got last night. I am very happy with r14s.

 

[GreensvilleJay]

yeesh now I'm trying to relocate my white mountain ranges as supposed to get 3-4 days of +heat AND rain....