OTR Tire Chains

Off-the-road (OTR) vehicles including heavy machinery for construction, mining, and forestry need reliable ways to navigate difficult terrain. OTR tire chains are designed to provide years of reliable service of your tires, so you can be sure that your equipment will be up and running when you need it.

If you are looking for protection chains that can withstand the harshest conditions, then Las Zirh OTR tire chains are the right choice for you. This  manual will cover OTR tire chains, their advantages, uses, and important factors. Learn how OTR tire chains improve traction, performance, and safety while redefining off-road vehicle capabilities. 

What OTR means

OTR is an acronym meaning Off-the-road used to refer to a type of tire designed for use in harsh, off-road conditions. They are typically used on construction equipment, mining vehicles, and other heavy-duty machinery.

When selecting OTR tires, there are a lot of things to take into account, such as the type of equipment, the application, and the working environment. The following are some of the key characteristics of OTR tires: 

  • Tread design: The durability and traction of an OTR tire depend on the tread design. For the tread to have a good traction on loose terrain like gravel or dirt, it should be deep and aggressive.

Sidewall strength: An OTR tire’s sidewalls must be robust enough to withstand impacts from rocks, stumps, and other obstacles.

About OTR Tire Chains

Different to the known snow chains, OTR chains are a specific kind of tire chain made for off-road (OTR) vehicles or equipment, then, we can call them Heavy-duty chains too. These chains are made to fit around the tires of off-road vehicles. Their main objective is to increase traction, stability, and protection in difficult and challenging terrain.

OTR Tire Chains benefits

As we have talked in other articles, protection chains offer multiple benefits for your operation, however, let’s check some particular benefits of OTR chains: 

  • Increased traction: On slick or loose ground, OTR chains improve tire traction. By doing this, accidents can be avoided and traffic can continue to flow safely.
  • Reduced downtime: OTR chains can help to reduce downtime by preventing tires from slipping and spinning, as a result, this can save businesses money on repairs and lost productivity.
  • Increased lifespan: By preventing wear and tear, OTR chains can help extend the life of tires, and this can reduce the cost of replacement tires for businesses.
  • Improved fuel efficiency: OTR chains may assist by reducing rolling resistance, which increases fuel efficiency. Againa, businesses may save money on fuel expenses as a result.
  • Versatile Applications: OTR tire chains are frequently used in the mining, building, forestry, agricultural, and off-road transportation sectors.
OTR tire chains

Tips for OTR Tire Chains Maintenance

  • Repair or Replacement: The OTR chains should be repaired or replaced as necessary if you observe considerable damage, excessive wear, or compromised integrity. Actually, the performance and safety of chains that have been damaged can be compromised.
  • Operator Training: of course, equipment operators should receive adequate instruction on the value of OTR chains maintenance. Also, inform them of the wear and damage indicators to watch for during routine inspections. Encourage them to report any problems right away so that maintenance or replacement can be done on schedule.
  • Documentation: Keep a record of inspections, repairs, and replacements by keeping a maintenance log. Make a note of all maintenance activities completed, dates, and any observations or problems found. Therefore, this documentation can be used to monitor the TPCs’ general health and spot any persistent problems.
  • Cleaning and Lubrication: After usage, clean OTR tire chains to get rid of any debris, grime, or corrosive materials that might have impacted their function. To avoid rust and guarantee smooth performance, lubricate the chains according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • Storage: Proper storage helps prevent damage and extends the lifespan of the chains. Store OTR tire chains in a dry and protected area, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.


Properly maintained OTR chains can extend the life of your tires and equipment while improving safety. It is important to inspect your tires and chains regularly for signs of wear and tear. It’s important to note that OTR tire chains should be used in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and appropriate safety precautions. 

OTR Tire Chains Come in Two Main Categories:

  • Steel chains: The most popular kind of OTR chain is one made of steel. They are constructed of high-strength steel and intended to endure heavy weights and challenging environments.
  • Rubber chains: Despite being less frequent than steel chains, rubber chains are more flexible and can sometimes offer better traction.

Ultimately, OTR chains might be an appropriate decision for companies that operate in difficult environments. They can help to increase tire life, save downtime, increase fuel efficiency, and improve safety.

It is important to speak to a qualified professional to determine the right OTR chains for your equipment according to your needs.

OTR Tire Chains in Mining and Construction Industry

OTR chains are frequently employed in the construction and mining sectors because they can help to increase traction in harsh environments. Tire protection chains are used on a number of machines in mining, including bulldozers, excavators, and haul trucks. On slippery or loose surfaces including mud, snow, or ice, they may be useful in preventing these vehicles from slipping and sliding. This can help to increase productivity and safety while reducing the risk of vehicle damage. In construction, Protection chains are used on many different types of construction equipment, such as loaders, graders, and backhoes. 

To put it briefly,  OTR chains are essential for off-the-road (OTR) vehicles – from heavy-duty trucks to tractors and more. Whether you’re in the construction, mining or agricultural business, these chains provide a reliable and safe solution for protecting your tire. OTR chains are a valuable investment for businesses that operate in harsh environments. 

The key to optimum performance and avoiding damage to both the tire chains and the tires itself is proper installation, regular maintenance, and adherence to weight and speed constraints. 

Also, do not forget, in Las Zirh you will find a team able to provide support, advice and guidance thanks to its expertise and more than 45 years in the field.