Snow Chain Fitting Instructions

snow road image by Galyna Andrushko from Fotolia.com

In wintry conditions, you can wrap chains around your tires to form a cage and provide extra traction on snow-covered roads. Such chains will help you drive through some mountain passes during heavy snowfall; in some areas, you may be turned away by authorities if you do not have tire chains. Practice fitting your snow chains at home in a dry area several times before you need to use them on a snow-covered road. The process is not complicated, but it can be difficult to do the first time. Struggling with cold chains on the side of a wet or icy road is not an enjoyable experience.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

Snow chains

Step 1

Purchase snow chains intended for use on the exact size of your vehicle's tires. Never attempt to deflate tires in order to force smaller-size chains on them.

Step 2

Set one chain out flat behind a tire. Arrange the chains so that the hooks attaching the center chains to the outer chains are facing towards the ground. This will ensure that these hooks face away from the tire to prevent tire damage.

Step 3

Back the car slowly onto the tire chain until the tire is in the center of the chain. If you have another person with you, ask him to act as a guide to make sure that you stop the car in the appropriate spot.

Step 4

Bring the ends of the chains up so that they meet on top of the tire.

Step 5

Secure the ends of the chains together by using the hooks and clips. Tug on the chains after you have attached them to make sure that they are secure.

Step 6

Repeat the process on your other tires.

Step 7

Drive forward approximately 15 feet and then stop your car. Check the chains to make sure that they are still in place, and tighten the chains if necessary.

Article Written By Kittie McCoy

Kittie McCoy has been a freelance writer since 2008. She is also a part-time personal trainer and licensed entertainer in Las Vegas. She enjoys sharing her love of physical fitness and experience in the entertainment industry via her writing.

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