How to Layout Tire Chains
Laying out tire chains is a necessity when living or traveling on icy roads in winter. Proper chain application can save your car from veering off a mountain side or crashing into a vehicle or building. Chains add traction allowing the car to grip icy roads.
- Verify the size of tire before shopping for snow chains.
- Pre-fit your chains to assure you have the proper chains for your vehicle. Do not try to adapt the chains to the vehicle. Return loose or short-fitting chains to the store. Many stores will assist you in fitting the correct size chain to your vehicle. Read the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
- Pack a shovel and pliers with you before you travel on the icy road.
- Clear away debris and snow so you have a clear workspace to install chains on your vehicle.
- Do not travel with chains on non-icy roads. The asphalt will damage the chains.
- Lay out the chains on the ground behind the front tire on both sides of the vehicle. If your vehicle is four-wheel drive, place chains on all four tires.
- Shift the car into reverse and slowly back up about a foot onto the center of the chains. Make sure the chains meet at the top of the tires.
- Join the fasteners both rear and front depending on your manufacturer specifications.
- Carefully connect the front fasteners on the front of the tire. Make sure the chains fit the tire without difficulty.
- Securely fasten the tensioners in the spaces between chain segments; tighten according to manufacturer instructions so the chains are sung on the tires.