Functionally, wheel chains (or, to be more precise, snow chains) are, in fact, a removable tread that makes it possible to turn an ordinary road tire into an off-road wheel. Structurally, this is a chain, often reinforced, connected so as to evenly braid the tire around the entire circumference. This design consists of two longitudinal chains or cables - external and internal, passing along the circumference of the wheel, which are connected by transverse chains or rubber "lugs".

2. Why are they needed?

The purpose of the chains is to significantly increase the grip properties of the wheels (and, accordingly, the vehicle's cross-country ability) on ice, on loose snow, deep mud, etc. In practice, it may look like this. You go fishing - you drive 100 km along the asphalt surface on ordinary tires, and then turn onto a country road, where the very “hard off-road” begins. Then wheel chains are put on - and you can go further, having much less chance of skidding or getting stuck in the mud. And places such as, for example, icy steep climbs, without wheel chains, are super problematic to overcome even on studded tires.

3. What are the types of chains?

First of all, wheel chains are divided into two classes: "hard" and "soft". The former use the actual chains as cross members, while the latter use reinforced rubber "lugs".

There are two basic types of pattern: "ladder" and "rhombus / honeycomb". In the first, the longitudinal chains / cables are connected with straight transverse pieces, in the manner of a rope ladder. In the "rhombus" they are connected obliquely, getting a "spider" pattern. Chains also differ in size and shape of the link (or lugs). Different materials are used for chains - steel, titanium (expensive), aluminum and reinforced plastic. Sometimes chains are additionally reinforced with metal spikes.

4. Which kind is better?

Everything is individual and depends, first of all, on the driving conditions. So, "hard" chains are better suited for off-road than "soft" ones, but they do not allow you to move at speeds over 40 km / h. "Soft" ones make it possible to drive at speeds up to 80 km / h and much less than "hard" ones, they "eat" rubber. Therefore, for those who left the highway and went to knead deep impassability, better fit"hard" version. For those who drive in a way where sections of flat roads and muddy country roads constantly alternate (for example, in the region), “soft” ones are more suitable.

The same can be said about the size of chain links. The larger the link, the more “off-road” qualities, but the more weight, the worse the ride on flat road and higher tire wear.

5. Chains can be used on any
car with any tires?

As for cars, almost any. Except maybe some sports cars. (Although it's unlikely anyone would think of going hunting in a sports car...) When it comes to tires, it's safe to say that "hard" chains are not suitable for ultra-low-profile wheels that are 50 inches or smaller. But a “soft” model can be found even in this case.

6. Are the chains different for different
vehicles and wheel sizes?

Chains differ in classes - for cars, for SUVs and for trucks. But here the wheel size plays a role, first of all: the chain covers from two to four standard sizes along the radius. In addition, for SUVs and trucks, chains are made with large links, often with additional spikes.

7. Do chains need to be put on all wheels?

Optional: can only be placed on the drive axle. This is useful when driving on not very "steep" off-road, when used from time to time "according to the weather", as well as to overcome problem areas of a country road.

8. How to put on chains?

The chains are laid out in front of the wheels of one axle exactly along the axis of movement - so that the locks on the outer side chain are on the outside (along the side) and “look” forward. The rear side chain hook must be inside(to the bottom). Next, you need to drive the wheels on the chain so as to stop 20-30 cm from their end. After that, put most of the chain on the wheel and hook the hook from the inside. Then you need to straighten all the links on the wheel (for “soft” ones, put on the adjusting cable / chain), and then hook the lock of the outer side chain. Wipe sweat from forehead. Breathe on frozen hands...

Are you happy? But that's not all! Then you need to do a “rolling”, after driving 10-50 m, so that the chain settles down, and then tighten the locks again.

Inveterate "jeepers" put on chains with a bang, and for them it is no more difficult than tying their shoelaces. But for many motorists, especially at first, putting on chains turns out to be the main “stumbling block”, and there are many who refuse to use them precisely because of this procedure. In any case, before the "combat" use of the chains, you should first practice putting them on somewhere on the site - it will be easier on the road.

9. Who makes wheel chains
and how much do they cost?

Since it is quite simple to make a chain, many metalworking enterprises make them. Of the well-known foreign brands, one can name such as RUD (Germany) and Pewag (Austria). From Russian - "Metallist" and "Red Anchor".

The average price of a set of two chains for a car is 5,000-7,000 rubles. For an SUV - 7,000-9,000 rubles. However, you can easily find cheaper chains of Asian or Russian production. There are also more expensive, "fancy" stainless steel chains reinforced with additional spikes. The top of the "steepness" - titanium chains, which are made to order.

10. Can the chain damage
tires and the car itself?

As for tires, let's say right away: all chains “eat” rubber. "Hard" more, "soft" - less. Wear also depends on how often the chains are used. The rubber actively begins to “eat up” during prolonged driving “in chains” on a hard road, sudden braking and acceleration, with too little contact with the wheel.

As for the car, the main danger here is the violation of instructions and faulty chain locks. Do not exceed the speed prescribed by the instructions for the chain. In this case, under the influence of centrifugal force, the chain can “break away” from the wheel and hit the wheel arch.

In the worst case, the chain lock will break, and it will catch on the suspension parts (for example, the arm), which can lead to serious damage and even an accident. The condition of the links, locks and the reliability of fastening must be carefully checked.

In the life of a car owner, situations arise when he overcomes impassability or snow drifts. There will be no problems if the car is an SUV, and studded tires are installed on it. As for ordinary cars, attempts to drive through mud or snow in winter end unsuccessfully.

Anti-skid chains. Purpose, advantages and disadvantages

To improve the off-road performance of a vehicle, snow chains or traction control chains are used. The purpose of these accessories is to increase the patency of the car. They play the role of universal lugs.

After installing them, the driver receives:

• good performance on snowy roads;
• the ability to overcome climbs and descents with less chance of loss of control;
• improved car handling on icy surfaces;
• increased rowing properties when overcoming mud.

Thanks to the anti-skid chains on the wheels, the car overcomes serious off-road conditions. But we note that the patency in this case depends on the clearance.

Disadvantages of snow chains:

1. Increased load on the steering mechanism, transmission elements.
2. The impossibility of fast movement (it will not be possible to drive at speeds over 40 km / h).
3. Intensive tire wear.
4. Strong sound effect.

Chains for a car will help in off-road or snow drift, but long-term operation Not recommended.

Varieties of chains

Despite the negative qualities, snow chains increase the patency of the car.

These tools differ from each other in terms of:

• material of manufacture;
• drawing geometry.

These differences affect the car's behavior on the road and off-road performance.

Production material

According to the material of manufacture, the chains are divided into:

1. Rigid.
2. Soft.

Initially, such means of increasing patency were made of metal - rigid chains on wheels. The material of manufacture was steel, aluminum, titanium. At the same time, the strength of such a product is affected by metal, the dimensions and thickness of the links. The more links, the higher the cross-country performance.

Video: ABC off-road. Anti-skid chains

The advantages of a rigid structure are improved cross-country ability of the car and improved traction control and anti-icing performance on ice. Such a chain in the form of a bracelet “rakes out” better from under the wheels. At the same time, they make a lot of noise and accelerate tire wear. Such bracelets on wheels have a speed limit of 40 kph. A product with large links has a significant mass, and far from all cars, the space of arches allows them to be used.

Structurally, they can be completely made of a metal chain, without a rigid base to which the transverse elements are attached.

Soft chains are distinguished by the fact that non-metallic materials are used to create them:

• rubber;
• plastic;
• polyurethane.

For the strength of such accessories, reinforcement is used. They are th and less. For them, the speed limit is already 80 km / h, while they do not have a strong noise effect. Their disadvantages include indicators when driving on ice.

For urban driving winter period it is better to choose soft traction control chains, for example, rubber ones. But when leaving the city, where there is a high probability of getting into a mud area or ice, they use a hard type.

Drawing geometry

As for the geometry of the pattern, three types are available:

1. "Ladder".
2. "Rhombus".
3. "Honeycombs".

The "ladder" consists of a base - two longitudinal branches, and it is located along the circumference of the wheel on both sides. For fastening on the wheel, locks are installed on the base. Working elements are attached to it perpendicularly. Externally, the straightened chain looks like a rope ladder, hence the name.

"Ladder" is the simplest type of cross-country vehicle, so such products are inexpensive. But such a chain has a number of disadvantages:

• working elements are parallel to each other. Because of this, contact with the road for such a chain is variable, due to which a car on loose soil or snow can “burrow”;
• "Ladder", due to the peculiarities of the location of the working elements, is good only for longitudinal movement, while the lateral stability of such lugs is low;
• due to variable contact, a high load on the transmission elements.

Better in terms of operational chain type "rhombus". Their design uses longitudinal branches, the working elements form a diamond-shaped pattern.

In “honeycombs”, the rhombuses formed by transverse branches also have a periodic arrangement, while they are additionally connected to each other by a linear connection.

Unlike the "ladder", in the "rhombus" and "honeycomb" the contact of the working branches with the coating occurs constantly, which reduces the negative impact on tires and transmission. They provide resistance to lateral impacts, that is, the car blows less to the sides.

What to consider when choosing

When choosing snow chains, pay attention to the material of manufacture, the geometric pattern and the dimensions of the chain. It should fit tightly around the wheel. Therefore, when choosing, be sure to find out the diameter and width of the wheel.

Pay attention to the dimensions of the links themselves. Small components provide flotation in snow or ice conditions, but they cope worse with mud - it needs large links.

How to put chains on wheels?

It is necessary to mount on wheels in advance, before leaving for the problem area. If the car is already stuck in mud or a snowdrift, it is problematic to put them on the wheels.

To put chains on wheels you need:

1. In front of the wheels of the drive axle on the ground, we lay the chains longitudinally to the movement and straighten them. Fixing elements (hooks, locks, carabiners, etc.) must face the direction of movement.
2. We run the wheels on the chains so that 20-30 cm of the product remains in front of the wheel.
3. We throw on the wheel the part located behind the wheel.
4. We connect the fixing element first with the internal longitudinal branch, and only then with the external one.
5. If there is a chain tensioner, use it.
6. We drive 20-30 meters by car so that the product normally sits on the wheel and straightens.

Video: How to put a chain on a wheel without running over and without a jack

And only after that we try to overcome impassability. At the same time, you need to do this in low gear and with increased turnover engine so that the wheels can "rake" out from under them. In urban conditions, we move on chains as usual, but before that it is better to do a test run to determine the behavior of the car, and this should be done on the road with different conditions - snow, ice. And most importantly - do not exceed speed mode, otherwise you will lose control or break the chain.

How to make your own wheel chains

The choice of snow chains on the market is very large now, but it is not necessary to purchase them, since they are not difficult to manufacture and it is quite possible to do it yourself. But at home we make only a rigid chain.

First of all, let's define the geometry of the picture. The simplest will be a "ladder", but if you wish, you can also make a "rhombus", although it is more difficult to manufacture. From the materials you will need:

• a metal chain whose links are connected by welding. At the same time, we immediately determine the size of the links;
• fastening;
• stretching device.

Video: Making CHAINS on wheels

As for the tools, you will need:

• angle grinder machine with a cutting wheel ("Bulgarian");
• welding machine;
• measuring tool;
• vise.

With that, let's get to work:

1. We take measurements. First of all, you should measure the longitudinal branches along the wheel, both of them should be the same length.
2. We cut off the required sections with a grinder.
3. We measure the length of the transverse elements and cut them in the right amount (the more cross members, the better).
4. In the end links of the transverse branches at the place of the weld, we make a cut and unbend a little. We do this with all the prepared elements.
5. We lay the longitudinal branches on the ground and, by cutting the links of the crossbars, we hook to them. We make sure that the crossbars are perpendicular to the bases and at the same distance from each other.
6. Using a welding machine, we weld the cuts made.
7. We attach hooks or carabiners to the front ends of the longitudinal branches in the same way.
8. If necessary, on the branch that will be located on the inside, we install a tensioner.
9. We install the manufactured product on the wheel and check how it sits (if necessary, we increase or shorten the longitudinal branches).

It is possible to use bolted connections of cross members with longitudinal branches during assembly, but the weld is more reliable.

You will need

• - anti-skid chains;
• - automobile;
• - flat place;
• - wire;
• - screwdriver;
• - four- or six-sided key (depending on the design of the lock).

Instruction

In case the dirt road is far away and you have to long haul on a flat asphalt road, do not rush to put on chains, since the recommended speed with them is no more than 50 km / h. Just after reaching the exit point on a bad road, find a flat area, stop and start mounting the chains on the wheels. Spread the chains in front of the wheels so that the links with the locks are on the outside. It is more convenient to install chains on both wheels of the same axle at once - for example, first “shove” the front wheels, and then the rear ones.

Inspect the entire surface of the chain, find any twisted links. If you find kink, eliminate it by passing part of the chain through the hole between the jumpers.

Carefully drive on the chains, stopping 30-50 cm from the edge. Throw most of the chain cloth on the wheel, hook the hook located on the inner longitudinal chain to the extreme link of the other end.

Distribute the jumpers evenly over the entire wheel, and for tires of the VLI-5 type, arrange them so that they are between the tread teeth.

Hook the hook-lock to the outer longitudinal chain, while preliminarily. To do this, insert the last link of the other end into the narrow slot of the hook and throw the hook over, while pulling the chain as much as possible. In this case, insert the back of the hook inside the last ring.

Adjust the straps again and fasten the clasp by sliding the ring of the hook between the tire and the chain and inserting the end into the chain link.

If the chain is not tight enough, try to unhook the hook again and fasten it to the second or even third link. It is best to drive a few kilometers so that the chain settles down and try to tighten it again, in which case it is possible to achieve maximum tension. Additionally, to be completely sure that the lock will not unfasten, wrap it with wire. This is especially true for snow chains with an S-lock (which is fastened with a hex or square key), as they can disengage when hitting an obstacle.

Related videos

www.kakprosto.ru

Chains for car wheels: which are better, video, how to put on wheels

Winter conditions always create additional difficulties for drivers. Snowfalls, ice - all this can lead to complicated traffic. Therefore, before driving the iron horse onto the road, you need to familiarize yourself with the basic safety rules and take certain measures. One way to increase the patency of a car is to use chains for the wheels.

Chains on wheels as a way to improve traction

The main task of such devices is to improve the grip of the car with the road and prevent wheel slip. The chains do their job well, helping you not to get bogged down in mud or snowdrifts. Efficiency is achieved due to the fact that the area of ​​​​contact of the metal with the road is less than that of the wheels. Snow or mud does not accumulate on the wheels, which allows the driver to easily overcome obstacles. A car with chains on wheels perfectly overcomes not only snow and mud, but also wet grass or clay.

When choosing car snow chains to improve traction, you will need some time to get used to driving. The car's patency increases, but the control is vice versa. This is due to the fact that with chains on wheels, the speed of movement can be no more than 40-50 kilometers per hour. Only some product models are designed for faster driving, such as rubber mesh.

How to choose metal protection for your car

One of the main problems with chains for cars is their wrong choice. If you are going for such a purchase, then you should carefully read the technical documentation of your car. Most car manufacturers indicate in the documents which wheel pads are suitable for the car. If you don’t have such information, then you should pick up a tape measure and measure the dimensions of the wheel, the distances to other nearby parts, for example, a brake disc or fender liner.

The wrong choice of wheel chains can cause your car to be repaired, since metal products can cling to suspension elements when driving, brake system car. The parameters of the chains depend on the dimensions of the wheel: diameter, width. For heavy ones, for example, trucks, you should choose products equipped with additional fasteners. The presence of additional fasteners in such chains increases permissible load into links.

Chains in most cases are made of steel, and the thickness of the metal in the links is one of the main parameters for choosing products for wheels. The thicker the steel chain and the greater the distance between the segments, the more grip the tire will have.

Types of chains for wheels according to their weaving

Protective chains for car wheels can be different. One of the functional classifications is according to the style of weaving. It is the pattern of a metal product that is reflected in the driving properties and purpose of use. When purchasing such accessories in the store, you can consult the seller. Basic forms:

• Weaving diagonally. Chains of links encircle the tire, not intersecting with each other. This type is suitable for driving on snow, mud, ice.
• Zigzag weaving. Chains of metal segments are fastened with side rods forming knots. The lines of the network are stretched at a certain angle, forming zigzags. On the slippery road such protection will not save, but it will help to overcome snowdrifts.
• Diamond weaving is one of the best options for use. The link chains cover each other diagonally, increasing the traction area. One of the disadvantages of this design is a decrease in the speed of movement.
• Ladder weaving is the simplest and most popular type. The chain covers the tire with segments located along the width of the wheel. An excellent choice for driving on mud and grass, but for driving on snow and ice, alas, not the best the best way. But such chains are the cheapest and you can even make them yourself.

Using chains and their alternative

Snow chains usually need to be put on by hand, but there are products on the market that can be automatically tensioned. There are also special accessories for dressing chains. Modern trucks equipped with a special system that makes it easy to pull the protection on the wheels.

How else can you improve traction and improve car handling? One inexpensive option is to use a rubber mesh for the wheels. This design, due to the presence of spikes and its elasticity, provides good grip and increases the vehicle's cross-country ability.

Another type of additional protection is bracelets. They are part of the chain, which is attached to a specific place on the wheel and secured with special fasteners. They are easy to put on and take off, but they are less effective.

How to put on your own chains

You have purchased wheel chains and now you need to put them on. It is advisable to stretch the net on all wheels, then the benefits from it will be greater. There are two ways to further increase traction: put on the chain by jacking up the car, or pull it on the car without lifting it. The main thing is to let some of the air out of the wheels. This will make the task even easier.

Consider the second way of putting on protection. Suppose you are on the road and you do not have a jack. In this case, you need to perform the following chain of actions:

• Place the snow chain in front of the wheel, and then stand with the wheel on the product. After that put the car on a manual brake.
• Arrange the entire network of links on the wheel. At the same time, make sure that the hook for fastening and the tension carabiner are on your side.
• The hook should be fixed on the inside of the tire with the last segment of the metal structure. Attach the tensioning carabiner to the tensioning system and lock.
• Distribute all segments of the metal links over the bar. Make sure there is no twisting. After that, make the final tension of the snow chain on the wheel.

For reliability, the final tightening of the links should not be done immediately. Drive the car for several tens of meters, and then completely fix the metal net. Such advice will allow you to align the position of the grid, as well as achieve maximum wheel girth.

Chain of which manufacturer to choose

Having become acquainted with the purpose and capabilities of such protection, you can think about whether it is worth buying it. In some European countries, such accessories are mandatory. But in our country, ordinary studded tires will be enough for everyday driving. These wheels do well in light snow, ice and mud. If you are a fan of off-road driving, you will need chains. Consider several popular manufacturers on the market for such accessories:

• Konig is one of top brands. Italian products have proven themselves with reliability and well-thought-out link design. Accessories of this brand increase the car's cross-country ability on snow and ice. Before buying, you should carefully study the models, since there are no universal mounts.
• Pewag is a manufacturer of protection for trucks and buses. The products of this brand do an excellent job. The Swiss Spikes-spider-quick is distinguished by its simple shape and easy installation on the wheels of a car. In addition, such snow chains are universal and allow you to increase the speed of movement in difficult conditions. Disadvantages: high price, takes up a lot of space when removed.
• Husqvarna also produces quality metal tire nets. They are easy to install. Provides good handling in deep snow and on ice.

From Russian manufacturers The Master Chain company produces good products that allow you to increase the controllability of the car. They are less expensive than their foreign counterparts.

autolirika.ru

How to put snow chains on the wheels of a car

Do you find the process of installing snow chains difficult and time-consuming?

Many are convinced that snow chains are difficult to put on wheels. This article will dispel the myth about the complexity of mounting circuits. Below is an instruction and video instruction of the whole process using pewag chains as an example.

Pewag Brenta-C (Without self-tensioning)

Pewag Servo (with self-tensioning mechanism)

Pewag Snox-Pro (With self-tensioning mechanism)

Instructions for chains without self-tensioning mechanism:

1. Unfold the chain and lay it out in front of the wheel. Then put the chain behind the wheel so that the cable rim lock is in front.

2. Lift the cable rim by grasping the ends and fasten over the bar.

3. Fasten the yellow hook by hooking it on the last link of the outer chain

4. Insert the cable rim behind the wheel, making sure that neither the cable rim nor the lock hits the running surface of the tire.

5. Straighten the chain on the tread track. Make sure that no section of the chain is twisted.

6. Attach the rotating tip of the red tension chain to the red hook and tighten the red tension chain

7. Fasten the red tension chain with a plastic hook, then, with force, hook the rubber tensioner onto the yellow chain

8. Done! Be careful, after 50 meters it is necessary to check the tension of the chain and, if necessary, tighten it.

t-yug.ru

Snow chains - how to increase patency?

Sometimes there are cases when, for a certain overcoming of a section of the path, opportunities vehicle turns out not to be enough. Such areas can be icy slopes, heavily polluted areas, or a simple section of the path that is covered with snow. In such situations, plastic bracelets and snow chains come to the rescue. Thus, even an elementary tire, which is intended for simple driving on asphalt roads, through these devices acquires high impressive specifications.

When putting on this kind of bracelets on the wheels of your car, the driver will receive a high level of cross-country ability. deep snow, improved by an order of magnitude coupling properties, as a result of which the controllability of transport on ice will also be much improved. In addition, muddy road sections will no longer pose a particular threat. Many fans of off-road travel post videos and photos on various forums where you can be completely convinced of how a car that is put on snow chains will be transformed.

Of course, such devices have a certain number of disadvantages, through which their use is limited. First of all, you need to take into account that steering and the suspension of the car will be subject to increased loads, which will lead to wear. Will suffer more steering rack if the devices will be mounted on the front wheels. The second important factor is that there is a fairly strong wear of the tire and its reduction in service life. In addition, to a lesser extent, of course, the gearbox will also suffer. The speed of the vehicle will also be limited. In conclusion, it should be noted that the circuits will emit a rather unpleasant loud noise.

Of course, manufacturers have come up with an analogue, which will be plastic and rubber snow chains. Of course, their off-road qualities will look a little worse, however, all the above shortcomings will be minimized.

1. The device of snow chains.

The device of wheel anti-skid chains is conditionally divided into soft and hard. Both the first and the second are two longitudinal chains or cables that are stretched around the entire circumference of the wheel. Peppered and rubber (plastic) lugs are stretched between them.

Crossbars can be located both in the form of rhombuses or honeycombs, and a short flight of stairs. Each of the proposed options has in its arsenal certain positive advantages and disadvantages. Ladder has improved rowing ability. That is why this device is best used to overcome various kinds of areas with high pollution. However, a wheel that is fitted with this kind of snow chain also has certain disadvantages, as it is prone to burrowing.

Therefore, driving on such shod wheels is only possible "pull-in". There are other dangers that can negatively affect a motorist's vehicle in a certain way. First, there are conditions for increased tire wear. In addition, when riding on this kind of wheels, the stability transverse car will be very low. And in conclusion, in the most negative way, these devices affect the steering and gearbox. This is due to the fact that the use of snow chains involves huge loads on these systems.

Wheel snow chains that have a honeycomb pattern are more versatile and have an order of magnitude less negative impact. In addition, the components of the car will not succumb to such high loads, and the tires will last much longer. Unlike ladders of this kind, bracelets are able to provide excellent lateral stability vehicle, as there is constant contact with the surface during movement.

2. Which chains are better to choose.

No matter how many trials and tests have passed, it is impossible to unequivocally say which snow chains are better. Each of the above types has its own advantages and is suitable for certain road conditions, therefore, choosing one universal option is impossible. The device of rigid chains for the most part is preferably used for total off-road. It is precisely because of the pronounced rowing abilities that these devices can make it possible to overcome all the difficult sections that have arisen with the least difficulty.

Soft devices, such as plastic or rubber bracelets, will be suitable for those motorists who do not storm off-road, but who sometimes have to overcome this kind of difficult places. The main advantage of this variety is that there is no urgent need to replace plastic bracelets after the vehicle has overcome a certain difficult road gap. Thus, it will be possible to continue moving the car at normal speed, and the risk of damage to the tires, steering and gearbox is reduced by an order of magnitude.

If the motorist, when choosing this kind of chains, prefers rigid chains, then you should pay attention to what section and size of the links of this device. The larger such elements, the better the rowing ability of this device will be, as a result of which there will be increased wear on tires, gearboxes and steering. In a square section, all links will also provide the best rowing ability of the car.

3. Making snow chains with your own hands.

It is important to replace that the cost of a fairly good kit of this kind is quite high. Consequently, many motorists who want to save money and get special benefits prefer to make their own snow chains. This process is not particularly complicated, and all the necessary components for this can be found in the nearest hardware store. It is important to note that this kind of home-made chains will have several times lower cost, while their quality will not differ in any way from branded store products. The Internet is the omniscient Korop. It is here that there are many different kinds of manuals, where there are both videos and photos of how to build such a device yourself.

It is easiest to build a ladder with your own hands. This requires almost nothing. First, you should measure two identical segments of the chain. This should be done in such a way that their length is somewhat less than the circumference of the wheel. Between them, at equal intervals, by means of rings or S-shaped hooks, all transverse segments must be attached, which will have the same length. Their length should slightly exceed the width of the tire.

The longitudinal sections will have ends, which as a result will need to be connected to each other by means of carabiners. In the middle of each individual longitudinal chain, it is necessary to install a tensioner device, which will be attached to the carabiner itself by means of a hook at the other end. Using this kind of device, you can quite simply and securely mount home-made snow chains on the wheels.

Of course, making DIY chains that will have a diamond pattern will be somewhat more difficult. However, this task is also subject to the motorist. Nevertheless, in this case, there are two options for the development of events: either invite a person who understands this; or do everything in accordance with the video and photo instructions experienced car enthusiasts.

4. How to put chains on wheels.

In this procedure, everything is exactly the opposite, like in most similar processes. The installation method will not depend on which snow chains will be put on the car - factory or home-made. Putting plastic bracelets or snow chains on the wheels of a vehicle can be done in two ways. The first option will be used by beginners, as it is quite simple, although it takes a slightly longer period of time. In this case, the car will be jacked up, and a bracelet will be put on the already hung wheel.

The second method will be faster, but it will be more suitable for experienced motorists, as it will require certain skills. First you should lay out all the bracelets or chains on the ground, straightening them very carefully. After that, the most difficult thing is to run over them in such a way that about thirty centimeters remain until the end. After that, the remaining long part of the chain must simply be put on the wheel. From the inside, this chain must be crocheted, all links must be straightened, as a result of which the outer part must also be fixed. The chain itself will be tightened by means of an adjusting cable.

Nothing left to do but test drive. Before proceeding directly to off-road driving, you need to drive up to 100 m on the road, as a result of which you need to tighten the chains again. This will increase the life of the tire. It is important to note that wearing plastic bracelets and snow chains on all wheels is not required if the car is not all-wheel drive. For a conventional type of vehicle, this kind of chain should be put on only those wheels that are driving.

Subscribe to our feeds on Facebook, Vkontakte and Instagram: all the most interesting automotive events in one place.

Was this article helpful?

In the European Union, snow chains are not widely used, in contrast to the CIS countries. Abroad, it has become a mandatory positive practice to take them with you in the winter. Studded tires are a good thing, but just in case, it’s better to play it safe in case of a difficult traffic situation.

Are wheel chains suitable for everyone?

Most new cars are sold with new winter tires as standard, but not all are suitable for snow chains. This is due to the parameters and gaps between the moving parts. To the factory dimensions of the rubber, you need to add one centimeter in width and in diameter.

There is a high probability that the chains will begin to wipe the wing, touch the body part when hitting potholes, as a result, this leads to undesirable consequences. Photo: kcson-sigaevo.ru

Chains have a negative impact on the correct operation of the system electronic speedometer. Increasing the radius and width of the wheel leads to data distortion. To avoid this, you must always look at the tolerances in the operating instructions for the technical tool, because the manufacturer allows the installation of wheels a size larger.

When should chains be used?

• Metal equipment is used when the roadway is covered with a crust of ice or snow, and in some cases - for driving through mud.
• The second use case: stuck in a snowdrift, or moved off a snowy road into a cliff.

Please note: chains cannot be used permanently.

As soon as the roadway is clear or the skid is out of the way, remove the tool from the wheels. Otherwise, you risk damaging the rubber product.

An administrative fine is provided for driving a car equipped with snow chains on an ice-free roadway.

Before throwing new chains in the trunk of a car, it does not hurt to do a couple of lessons on installing the product on wheels. Regardless of the brand and model of metal mail, they all dress intricately. This is especially noticeable in winter, when the arches under the wing of the car are filled with snow and block free access. It is better to practice on a clean car than to freeze in the frosty season.

How many chains to use

It is necessary to approach the issue from two sides:

• financial component;
• practicality.

Important to know: A front wheel drive car with snow chains will tend to oversteer while a rear wheel drive car keeps a straight line. The all-wheel drive version must be equipped with all four chains.

In order to save money, it will be enough to purchase one pair for the drive wheels. In terms of efficiency, you need two pairs to put on each wheel.

Practice driving with metal rigging

Mandatory ABS ( traction control system) should be disabled. If at the time of movement with chains the option is activated, then the electronic unit control will incorrectly perceive information about the movement and give a general error to the center console.

Regardless of the make and model of the car, when using metal "chain mail", the permitted speed of movement should not exceed 50 - 60 km / h.

Exceeding the allowable modes leads to premature tire wear. The resource of work is automatically reduced by half of the maximum possible. Photo: bar-billiard.ru

• after installing the chains, it is necessary to drive 50 - 100 meters and carry out an additional stretch, since the metal link "found" its place and the tension is loosened;
• you need to fasten the "chain mail" carefully and with a sense of tact. Exceeding the tension is fraught with a rush, a weak tension will damage the body part and the rubber material of the wheel;
• stop using the chain immediately if it becomes unusable;
• during each dismantling, carry out visual diagnostics of the product for further suitability;
• the presence of damage on the fixing elements is the basis for replacement.

How to install chains on wheels according to all the rules - see this video:

Varieties of metal chains

• rigid: have improved cross-country ability, but the speed interval is limited to 50 km/h;
• soft: to a lesser extent, the lugs are adapted for off-road, but the speed limit can reach 70 - 80 km / h (but why?). This is a universal type that is installed on any kind of wheels.

Types of chains on wheels according to the type of pattern. Photo: autocity365.ru

Among car owners there is a separate classification according to the drawing scheme:

• ladder;
• rhombus;
• honeycomb.

The above varieties are designed for pavement with a slight thickness of ice. They will not be able to provide assistance when leaving the snowdrift.

Anti-skid bracelets are perfect only when you need to get out of a hole or a snowdrift. For the usual driving on a snowy track, they are not suitable.

Let us briefly consider the main features of circuits for different types cars.

Chains for the passenger class

It is based on a metal cable, equipped with a detachable lock at the end. Externally, there is a protection in the form of a polyethylene coating. The tension of the entire circuit of such chains occurs due to the pendulum mechanism and a special spring.

The method of installation consists in throwing a chain mesh on the open part of the wheel, after which it is necessary to scroll through 180 ° and fix the rest with a lock. Dismantling takes place in the reverse order.

How to make chains on a car on your own - see here:

Chains for SUVs and SUVs

Grousers are made of strong special steel with powerful clamps on the ends. The design is so strong that it can be used not only in winter, but also when it gets into the mud, swamp. Despite their size, the chains are folded into a special suitcase - a container, do not take up much space in the luggage compartment.

Important: when choosing metal chains, it is better to give preference to links in the form of a square profile. The shape allows you to fully push through ice, snow, and other hard surfaces, increasing the permeability in a particular area.

For the Sport Utility Vehicle, special chains are made, designed for the power of the vehicle, but with a small mass. Therefore, the so-called intermediate links have an enlarged shape and thicker material for endurance.

Outcome

So, should chains be preferred?

Positive aspects of the application:

• the ability to get out of any snowdrift, to get to the desired point with greater safety, despite the ice;
• when used correctly (!), chains help protect tires from premature wear or damage;
• the power unit does not work for wear during release from snow captivity.

Disadvantages:

• short duration, frequency of use;
• there is a high probability of damage to rubber if the basic rules of operation are not followed;
• fragility, subject to the acquisition of a fake.