Winter chains (or tire chains) are a valuable accessory for enhancing traction on snowy, icy, or slippery roads. While winter tires provide significant benefits in cold weather, tire chains are an additional tool to help you navigate extreme conditions, especially when there’s deep snow or ice.
When Are Winter Chains Necessary?
- Severe Snow and Ice: Winter chains are often necessary in areas that experience deep snow, thick ice, or steep inclines, especially if conditions are too extreme for regular winter tires to handle.
- Road Restrictions: In some mountainous regions or areas with strict winter driving laws, chains may be required by law during specific weather conditions, regardless of whether you have winter tires.
- Low Traction Situations: If you find yourself driving in areas with icy patches, steep hills, or unplowed roads, chains can provide the extra grip needed to safely continue your journey.
How Winter Chains Work:
Winter tire chains are made of metal links that wrap around your tires, increasing surface area contact with the ground, improving grip, and helping prevent slipping on ice and snow. When driving in deep snow or on slippery ice, the chains bite into the surface, creating more friction and better control.
Types of Winter Chains:
- Traditional Chain Link Chains: These are the most common and provide excellent traction in deep snow or on icy roads. They’re made of steel links, which offer solid grip but can be noisy and rough on paved roads.
- Cable Chains: These use steel cables with cross strands and are lighter and easier to install than traditional link chains. They’re generally best suited for moderate snow and icy conditions and are quieter on the road.
- Rubber/Spiral Chains: These are a more modern option, made with a flexible rubber casing that has steel inserts. They are easier to install than metal chains and are quieter on the road, but they’re typically not as effective in extreme conditions.
- Snow Socks: Not technically chains, snow socks are fabric covers that slip over your tires and can provide a good level of traction on snow and ice. They are easy to install and remove, but not as durable as chains and are better suited for lighter snow conditions.
Advantages of Winter Chains:
- Improved Traction: Chains provide better grip on ice, packed snow, and slippery surfaces compared to just tires alone.
- Enhanced Safety: In extreme conditions, they significantly reduce the likelihood of getting stuck or losing control of your vehicle.
- Cost-Effective: Compared to winter tires, chains are a more affordable option, especially if you’re only facing occasional severe weather.
Disadvantages of Winter Chains:
- Installation: Putting on tire chains can be cumbersome and time-consuming, especially if you’re not familiar with how they work. It’s a good idea to practice installing them before you need them in an emergency.
- Speed Limitation: When chains are installed, you should drive at reduced speeds (typically no faster than 30 mph or 50 km/h) because driving too fast can damage both the chains and your tires.
- Road Damage: If used on bare or paved roads (especially when snow or ice is not present), chains can damage the road surface and your tires.
- Storage and Maintenance: Chains need to be stored properly (dry and clean) to prevent rust and wear, and they need regular maintenance to ensure they’re in good condition when needed.
How to Use Winter Chains:
- Check Local Regulations: Make sure you’re aware of any legal requirements in the area you’re traveling. Some regions mandate chains at certain elevations or during certain weather conditions.
- Practice Installation: Install chains in dry conditions at least once before you need them in a snowstorm. This will ensure you know how to do it quickly and correctly when the time comes.
- Install Correctly: Always install chains on the driving wheels (front wheels for front-wheel drive, rear wheels for rear-wheel drive, and all four wheels for all-wheel-drive vehicles). Make sure the chains are tightened properly, and check them periodically while driving.
- Drive Cautiously: Once installed, drive slowly and avoid sudden acceleration or sharp turns. Make sure to remove the chains as soon as you’re out of the hazardous conditions, to avoid damaging your tires or chains.
When to Remove Winter Chains:
- Paved Roads: Once you’re driving on cleared, paved roads where snow and ice are no longer an issue, remove the chains immediately. Driving on dry roads with chains can damage your tires, the chains themselves, and the road surface.
- Moderate Snowfall: If conditions improve and the snow isn’t as deep or icy, chains may no longer be needed.
Tips for Choosing Winter Chains:
- Fit: Make sure the chains are the correct size for your tires. Always check the tire size on your vehicle (e.g., 215/65R16) and match it to the chains’ size guide.
- Material: Steel chains are more durable but heavier, while lighter materials like cables or rubber options might be easier to handle but less durable.
- Ease of Use: Some chains come with quick-fit systems that make installation easier. Look for those if you’re concerned about convenience.
Brands:
Some reputable brands that manufacture tire chains include:
- Peerless: Known for their durable and easy-to-install chains.
- Thule: Offers both premium snow chains and easy-to-use cable chains.
- Security Chain Company (SCC): Popular for their range of chains and cable tire chains.
- RUD: A high-end brand that offers durable chains suitable for extreme conditions.
In summary, winter chains are a great tool for dealing with severe snow and ice, especially when you’re in an area that experiences very challenging winter conditions. While they are not needed for everyday winter driving, having them as a backup can make a huge difference when the weather turns harsh.
Contact Doylestown Auto Repair at 267-279-9477 or visit our website at www.doylestownautoshop.com to schedule an appointment to have your car serviced.