How to Put Snow Chains on a Big Rig
Snow chains are required for all trucks driven at high elevations. Some roads require the use of snow chains during winter months to ensure that no accident occurs, which would make some roads impassable for other drivers. Department of Transportation employees may be posted on roads that require snow chains, to ensure that all drivers have appropriate chains. Drivers who do not have appropriate chains on their rigs will be asked to head back to lower elevations. There are two ways to put chains on tires: draping over the tire and driving onto the chains. Both methods are relatively easy and effective.
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Instructions
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Identify the tires that need to be chained. According to the California Department of Transportation, the four tires on the front axle of the trailer should be chained. The outside tires on the second axle and the outside tires on the axle furthest back should also be chained.
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Method 1: Lay the chains down in front of or behind the tires, making sure the outside is face-down. Back up onto, or drive forward onto the chains. Method 2: Drape the chains over the tires.
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Grab the free ends on both sides and wrap them around the tires.
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Clip the chains together.
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Tighten the chains. According to truckernews.com, "most truck chain sets have adjustable fasteners that let you directly adjust their tension when you clip the ends together."
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Tips & Warnings
Buy chains that are made for your truck's specific tire size.
Put chains on tires, drive ¼ of a mile and re-tighten them.
Check the state's Department of Transportation website for road conditions and snow chain requirements.
Carry a wire coat hanger to reach the chains on the inside of the inner tires on the front axle. Also carry a flashlight and gloves.
Keep carpet samples in your truck to kneel on while putting on the chains.
Don't deflate the tires and fill them back up with the chains installed on them. This may cause the chains to press too firmly into the tire, hurting the treads.
References
- Photo Credit trucks on highway image by palms from Fotolia.com
