How to Hang a Tire Swing From a Tree

A tire swing is also a great way to recycle old tires.

You may have fond memories of a backyard tire swing you had when you were a child. You may even decide to hang one from your tree out back for your own children so that they can make some fond memories of their own. Setting up a tire swing is not as easy as it sounds, though. Without the proper attention to detail, your tire swing may break and result in an injury to yourself or your children.

Things You'll Need

• Drill
• Eyebolt
• Quick links
• Chain
• Tire

Instructions

1. Examine the boughs of the tree you select for the tire swing. Choose a branch that is particularly strong and sturdy. The tire swing will put a lot of strain on the bough, so the stronger and thicker it is, the better.

2. Drill a 1/2-inch hole into the underside of the tree limb. Thread a 1/2-inch eyebolt into the hole. An eyebolt is a heavy-duty metal ring that is attached to a bolt. This allows the chain to attach to the ring and rotate.

3. Hook a quick link into the metal ring of the tire swivel. Attach a length of 3/16-inch playground chain to the quick link. The length of the chain will vary depending on the height of the tree, but ensure it dangles about 4 feet from the ground.

4. Drill a 1/2-inch hole into the center of the tread on the swing tire. Thread a 1/2-inch eyebolt through the hole with the ring facing up. Screw a nut and a washer onto the thread of the eyebolt. Lift the tire by the eyebolt and ensure it will hold the weight.

5. Attach a quick link to the eyebolt in the tire. Connect the quick link to the dangling end of the chain as well.

6. Drill another 1/2-inch hole into the bottom of the tire so water can drain. Without the drain hole, rainwater can stagnate at the bottom of the tire.

Tips & Warnings

• Place a wooden plank inside the tire that sits close to the bottom of the tire. This makes a level seat you can sit on instead of coming in direct contact with the rubber of the tire.

• Use a large tire like a tractor tire. This will last longer and be more stable than a regular car tire.

• Clean the tire thoroughly before you use it in your swing. It is easier to clean the tire before you hang it.

References

• Better Homes and Gardens: How to Hang a Tire Swing