need more traction on my 350b loader

[Scottyb]

Pulling out logs with my loader in the snow and more traction would be big help. I was told that welding some angle iron on a few pads would get me by and I could grind them off in the spring. This seems like it would work but do I do it every winter or could I change a few pads with longer grousers on and off for the winter? If the pad change will work how many? Thanks for any suggestions you have.
Scottyb

[digitup2]

Do you have the little 1/2 inch holes in the grousers.If you do then put some 1/2 inch by 2 inch bolts in the grousers .there were actually studs that were hard steel that would bolt in those holes that were 3 inches in from the out and in sides of the grouser and keep the crawler from skating side ways on ice .I haven't seen those studs for years but Deere and Allis Chalmers had them for the triple grousers with holes .Digitup.

[Scottyb]

Digitup, I am heading up to the cabin tomorrow and will check the pads to see if they will work for the half inch studs\bolts. My pads are the three grouser style so I am hoping this will work as it would be a easy solution for sure. I just need something to get the crawler over the frozen branches and humps, especially on uphill pulls.
Thanks
Scottyb

[KenP]

deleted

[dirtguy34]

I welded 1/2 in x 1- 1/2 x width of pad, flat stock I had sheared at a iron works shop to every pad with 7018 rod. Haven't tore one off yet. Bent a couple. But it climbs like a mountain goat in the snow. Just be careful using it in the dirt. loaders are not designed to have grousers. tracks need to spin if overloading the bucket. Dave

[Scottyb]

I took Ken's tip and put bolts in the pads. I bought 2.5 inch 5/8 grade 8 bolts, a nut on top and bottom with a lock washer on the bottom. They stick up a good inch above the pads. I put two on every third pad and WOW. My loader climbs over anything and everything. I can't believe how good this works for me. I am pulling logs and making trails on frozen ground with a foot of snow. (last year we had 4 feet but I'm happy now as we have lots of trees to move.) I think the bolts are a bit too long on the frozen ponds as the bang a lot, but in the bush I am all smiles. total cost about $50... Thanks!!
Scottyb