How to Install Tire Chains on a 4 Wheel Drive

Four-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles differ in a few mechanical aspects, but not when you are referring to requiring tire chains. Both types of vehicles are required to mount tire chains on highways where the chain law is in effect. Some states have different laws regarding the placement location of tire chains on four-wheel-drive vehicles. California, for example, requires that chains have to be placed on at least one drive axle. In the case of four-wheel-drive vehicles, tire chains can be mounted on either the front or rear axle; however, the rear axle is preferred by California DOT.

Things You'll Need

• Four-wheel-drive vehicle
• Tire chains
• 4 rubber straps or two five-pointed spider straps
• Rain or winter weather gear (recommended)

Instructions

Four-Wheel Tire Chains and Cables

1. Predetermine and purchase the correct size tire chains for your vehicle. Check the operator’s manual to determine if your vehicle will support tire chains or if tire cables will be necessary. You don’t want to be deciding this while you’re on the side of the road in freezing temperatures.

2. Lay the tire chains on the ground next to the tires on which they are to be installed. Inspect the chains thoroughly for damage, wear or missing or twisted links.

3. Drape the chains over the tire so there is enough excess hanging over the rear of the tire to permit you to drive the vehicle forward without the chains falling off. Spread the chains out smoothly on the tire, ensuring that any sharp edges are facing outward away from the tire tread to prevent puncturing the tire.

4. Pull the vehicle forward about 2 feet or about one half of a tire rotation. Fasten the ends of the inside chains together as tightly as possible. Pull any slack toward the outside of the tire and then fasten the outside connectors. Install the rubber straps of five-pointed spider straps to the chains. Place the straps so they are not attached directly into the cross links.

5. Drive the vehicle about a quarter mile and then inspect and tighten the chains again. Then proceed to drive slowly while the chains are in place to prevent damage to your vehicle and reduce the risk of losing the chains. Re-inspect the chain installation about every 10 to 15 miles. Check your mirrors often and listen for the sound of metal slapping against the vehicle as you drive.

Tips & Warnings

• Tire chains are designed to add traction on icy and snow-covered roads, but they will not prevent your vehicle from sliding, spinning out or getting stuck. Drive at a reduced speed and avoid hard braking. During winter months and in areas of known adverse weather where installing tire chains is common, profession installers are sometimes available to mount chains for you for a fee.

• Tire chains and cables can snap and be thrown from cars and tractor trailer trucks, watch for broken chains and cable on the roadway and avoid hitting them if it is safe to do so.

References

• Bill Burke’s 4 Wheeling America
• National Association of Tire Chains Manufactures: Tire Chain Specifications
• Caltrans: Weathering the Storm