How to Put Snow Chains on a Truck

Snow chains are useful devices that provide increased traction in adverse weather conditions most often found during the winter months. Snow chains are chain devices that fit on the tires of your truck and provide the added "bite" sometimes needed to stay securely on the road. While the ride quality with snow chains on is quite poor, it is still better than wrecking your truck or getting stranded because you decided to forgo using them. Installing snow chains is a relatively easy task as long as you follow a methodical, step-by-step approach.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Park your truck in a level area and set the parking brake. Separate the snow chains and lay one next to each wheel to which you will be attaching a chain.

2. Lay the snow chain over the top and drape it around the tire. Connect the ring clip on the back of the tire to secure that side of the chain, and then begin attaching the tensioner clips on the front side of the tire.

3. Attach all of the clips that you can until you reach the bottom of the tire. Drive forward a few feet to free up the bottom of the tire and then attach the remaining clips to completely secure the chains on the tire.

4. Repeat Steps 1 through 3 for each tire.

Tips & Warnings

• If your truck is four wheel drive and you have four snow chains, then mount all four chains. However, if your truck is only rear wheel drive, mount the chains on the rear tires to provide the most grip on the road.

References

• Helpful article outlining the process of mounting snow chains

Resources

• You can purchase all brands of snow chains here