Installing Snow Chains Correctly

In the states where it is illegal to use metal studded snow tires, then you are going to need to use the next best thing. In this instance, the next best thing would be snow chains. Some people might even say that tire chains are better than snow tires. One of the major benefits that come from using chains instead of winter tires include lower initial cost—roughly $55.00 to $130.00 as opposed to upwards of $194.00 per tire. Another of the benefits that come along with chains is that they can be removed (and installed) fairly easily when they are no longer needed.

Materials Needed:

• Chains (style and material of your choice)
• Adjustable wrench
• Pliers

Procedure:

1. Type. The first thing that you are going to need to do is decide on what type of chains you are going to use. This might sound a little strange, but there are three basic styles of metal chains, as well as different types of materials that they could be made from. Do a little bit of homework and decide on what style you want (each style has its benefits). I usually use the metallic cable style of chains, since they are easier to put on, as well as a little lower in cost than the other metallic types of chains.
2. Fit. You can purchase chains that are made for specific sizes of tires. Personally, I would suggest getting these fitted chains since it cuts down the time required to get everything to fit exactly right. If this is not the type that you get, then before actually installing the chains you are going to want to "pre-fit" them. Do this by simply taking a tire that is either the same size as yours and fitting chains to them, or removing one of your tires and doing the same thing. You want to use chains that are going to be as tight as possible to the tire. Doing this provides a smother (not to mention a quieter) ride. At the same time doing this is going to help reduce damage to the chains and lengthen their service life.
3. Fasten. Begin by laying the chains out in front of or directly behind the tires. Have another person help by guiding you (as you are driving the car) onto the middle of the chains. Raise the chains over and around the tires and fasten the hooks together. Once you have done this you should be able to also see that there are some fastening nuts that need to be tightened down. Do this by using your fingers (if possible) to tighten them and then using either an adjustable wrench or pliers to help tighten them even more.
4. Speed. Finally, after you have fastened and tightened the chains you are ready to go. While driving you'll want to make sure that you do not go too fast. You are only going to want to go about 40 miles per hour, otherwise you might either damage the chains or the tires.