How to Put Cable Chains on a Tire

Snow and ice on winter roads make driving conditions treacherous, but those conditions are a way of life in some parts of the country. People need to get to work and school despite icy roads. Putting snow chains on a vehicle's tires has long been an effective way of getting additional traction, but chains were cumbersome and sometimes difficult to put on and take off. A new variation uses cables rather than chains, and this makes them easier to put on your tires.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Roll out the cables flat on the ground and check for any damage. Drape the cable over the top of the tire so that the keyhole latch attachments at one end are on the right side.

2. Align the cable cross members so that they are running perpendicular to the tire's tread.

3. Pull the vehicle forward about one foot so that the keyhole latch is about even with the axle. At this point, the cables will fall back to the ground.

4. Pull the end of the cable up so that the knobs meet the keyhole latch. There are multiple knobs so that the cables will fit a variety of tire sizes. Pick which knob to use based on which will give the best fit to your tire, and attach the lever lock to the knob and fasten it by pulling the lever 180 degrees upwards.

5. Take a slow half-mile test drive and check the cables again.

Tips & Warnings

• Double check and make sure that the cross member hook ends are facing away from the tire tread or you could cause tire damage.

References

• Install Tire Chains

Resources

• Winter Driving Tips