Installing Tire Chains

It will happen eventually, when driving in the snow or mud, looking ahead it becomes noticeable that the road or path starts getting much worse causing concern about losing all traction in the semi or tractor. So what to do: either wait, get an expensive tow truck or put tire chains on. Here is how to install them. Note using tire chains go about 30 mph without possibly damaging fenders or the wheel itself.

Today I will be showing how to install tire chains. The following items will be needed a pair of gloves, safety glasses, a pair of tire chains and a pair of tire chain tensioners. If on the side of the road, road flares, reflective Triangles, and a reflective safety vest will also be needed.

First, if equipping them on the side of road turn on hazard lights when doing this process. If in a driveway, garage or parking lot hazard lights are not needed.

After the semi or tractor is in park, turn the engine off and put gloves and safety glasses on. Then pull the chains out that fit the semi or tractor and lay them on the ground having the road side of the chain laying upwards, check for broken links while laying them out. If there are any broken links get a new tire chain or get it fixed.

If the chains are good, proceed with putting them on by laying them over the tire evenly with roadside up. Next check the latches on either side that are located on each side of the tire, so that the tire does not run them over.

Get in the semi or tractor and drive forward about a foot, so the chain is now under the tire, then connect the latches on either side.

After latching each side as tight as possible, put on the chain tensioner having the hooks facing away from the tire. Evenly distribute the hooks that are on the tensioners, lots of force will be needed, and drive back and forth one or twice to let them settle in place. Be advised tire chains are temporary use only.

Evenly distribute the hooks that are on the tensioners, lots of force will be needed, and drive back and forth one or twice to let them settle in place. Be advised tire chains are temporary use only.

Now the operator can install tire chains safely. After use, chains should be cleaned and stored away for future use. To accelerate installation next time, practice. Going farther through snow or mud is now more possible.