Freeing a Mired Machine

Attempting to free a mired machine can involve safety hazards such as the mired tractor tipping rearward, the towing tractor overturning, and the tow chain or tow bar (a cable is not recommended) failing and recoiling from its stretched condition.

Back tractor out if it gets mired down in mud. Unhitch any towed implements. Dig mud from behind the rear wheels. Place boards behind the wheels to provide a solid base and try to back out slowly. If necessary, dig mud from the front of all wheels and drive slowly ahead.

Use a tow bar or long chain of adequate size and strong enough to handle the load. Inspect chain for flaws. Always attach vehicles drawbar to drawbar whether pulling forward or rearward. Clear area of people and other hazards before moving.

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IMPORTANT: Avoid damaging transmission/axle and hydraulic system. Never attempt to start tractor by towing.

If possible, run engine at 1250 rpm to provide lubrication, steering and brakes. Have an operator steer and brake tractor.

IMPORTANT: Use axle tie-down loops to attach chain to standard MFWD axle. Do not attach chain around axle to avoid component damage. Use drawbar to tow tractor out of mired condition if pulling tractor from the rear.

Two-Wheel Drive Tractors:

Wrap chain around front axle bottom support. Pull tractor straight forward.

Standard MFWD Axle:

Attach chain to tie-down loops (A) on each side of the axle. Pull tractor straight forward.

MFWD Axle with Independent Link Suspension:

IMPORTANT: Attaching chain to the front suspension other than outer portion of lower support arm could cause component damage.

Attach chain (B) to the outer lower support arm (C) to each side of the axle. Pull tractor straight forward.

A-Tie Down Loop
B-Chain
C-Support Arm

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