How do I know what size tire chains to buy?
Measure, don’t use tire size! Measure tire chain length (L) and inside span (S) of the chains you are checking. Subtract W from S and then subtract that number from (H) which will give you the diameter of the tire chain circle. Multiply that by 3.14 and you get the tire chain length (L).
Do tire chain sizes have to be exact?
Since tire chains are designed to fit specific tire sizes and those tires have specific load ratings you should have no issues as long as you are within your load weight rating and you are driving the recommended speed by law with tire chains on (or no more than 30 mph with these tire chains).
What are S tire chains?
Tire chains that are rated as S-Class compatible are suitable for use on passenger vehicles that have limited clearance in the wheel wells. Unlike a vehicle like a pickup truck that generally has a good bit of room inside the wheel wells, many passenger cars have little extra space around the tires.
Are chains One size fits all?
Tire chains aren’t one-size-fits-all, but by finding some basic information on your car’s tires you can make sure you get the right ones from the auto parts store.
Should tire chains be tight or loose?
The chains should be tight on the tire. And, be sure to stop if you hear them making any contact with your vehicle. If your chains are still loose, unhook the bungee and adjust the red hook straight across from the chain guide.
Do you put chains on all 4 tires?
Four-wheel drive vehicles should use tire chains on all four tires. You must use tire chains for those wheels on the drive axle for two-wheel drive vehicles, but it’s much safer and easier to control if you have chains on all four tires.
How fast can you drive with chains on?
to 30 mph
Driving too fast with chains. Recommended maximum speeds in the owners’ manual of the chains – generally 30 to 50 km/h (20 to 30 mph) – maximum. Driving on dry roads with chains for extended periods of time. Driving on dry roads with chains can cause a vehicle to slide when braking.
Do I need chains for all 4 tires?
Ideally, you should put tire chains on all four tires for all types of vehicles. If chains are only put on the front tires, the back of the vehicle can react unpredictably during driving and braking, while if chains are only put on the rear tires, the steering ability of the vehicle is jeopardized.
What size tire chains do I Need?
However, you need to use the right type of chains for your tire size. Your automaker mandates that you use chains that meet the following size requirements: The side chain should be 0.12 inches in diameter, 0.39 inches wide and 1.18 long. The cross chain should be 0.16 inches in diameter, 0.55 inches wide and 0.98 inches long.
How should tire chains fit on the tire?
With the car parked, parking brake engaged, and car in gear, place the chain onto the tire, holding it from the top and ensuring that it is evenly placed over the wheel . Obviously, the bottom part of the chain cannot cover that portion of tire that is touching the road. Just fit the rest of the chain onto the wheel as best you can.
What is a cable tire chain?
Cable chains are a new breed of tire chain that instead of using large, heavy steel links, these cable chains use a high strength steel aircraft cable surrounded by alloy steel traction coils. These cable chains offer better traction and a smoother ride than traditional chains.