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Tire
chains are an "emergency traction device" and should be used as a last
resort. If possible, take another route or postpone your trip. Tire chains can approximately double your vehicle's starting and stopping traction on snow and ice. Don't wait until you lose control and spin out before chaining up. Check state chain laws in advance. On some days, chains may be required when traveling on snowy or icy roads. Know how to install your chains and be sure to use them when they're required. Drive slowly (maximum 30 mph speed). Start, turn, and stop as gently as possible and avoid making sudden moves. Remember, even with chains, you can slide. The faster the speed, the shorter the chain life. Check your chain's instructions and vehicle owner's manual for maximum recommended speed (usually 30 mph). Do not operate tire chain on bare pavement or hard ice. Chaining up benefits more than just yourself. If winter roads are obstructed with travelers installing chains, highway crews have a harder time sanding and plowing. Stop and check bungee-binder tightness periodically. Unlike the cross links, the side chains are usually made of softer, lighter metal because they aren't intended to support the vehicle's weight. If they aren't kept tight, the side chain can slide under the tread and become structurally compromised. Pull over and stop immediately if any part of a tire chain should fail or come loose. Stop as soon as is safely possible, but don't slam on the brakes and risk a skid. Driving with damaged chains risks fender well damage and increases the chance of the chain wrapping around undercarriage components. Store chains in their original bags. After each use, coat the chains with silicone spray to prevent rust.
TIRE
CHAIN INSTALLATION TIPS Practice chaining up before you need to! Rehearse the steps at home, preferably in nice weather. When you really need them, you'll know what to do. Read and follow the chain and vehicle manufacturers instructions. Note the recommendations for proper type of chain (e.g., Class S, cable or link, etc.) Always trial fit chains prior to traveling. Pay particular attention to wheel well clearance and how the chain fits the tire. Make sure chains are the proper size. Do not deflate tires to install chains. With the tires cold, verify inflation pressure before installing chains. Tires with the same size designation can vary as much as 7% in actual size, depending on manufacturer and tread design. So, verify chain fitment before using them in real-world conditions. Link chains can be cut to size with large bolt-cutters. Wear heavy gloves to protect your hands. To help keep dry, carry a waterproof mat or plastic sheet to work on. Chains on all four tires provide the best possible traction. When using only one pair, they usually go on the "drive" wheels (front tires on front-wheel-drive cars, rear tires on rear-wheel-drive cars). If your vehicle has dual tires, in most cases, it is sufficient to chain one outside tire of each rear drive dual. In some cases, you may want or need to chain both with a "dual triple set". Pull over to a safe and level area to install or remove chains. Keep children and pets safe in your car to avoid distraction and injury. Carry some type of tire blocks to prevent vehicle movement while you are working. Set the emergency brake while installing chains. Don't lie with your legs pointed toward traffic while installing or removing chains. To prevent loosening, re-tighten your chains after you've driven a short distance. The tighter the chains are installed, the longer they and the tires will last. Going one link tighter can double chain life at 30 mph. |
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HMI LLC.
www.chainbuddy.com US Patents Pending
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