Even heavy equipment is not exempt from the hassle brought on by the winter season each year. A chain for truck tires is an accessory that is very useful, especially for those that travel frequently on roads covered with ice or snow. The months of December through March are the normal months of the year when nearly every part of the country will experience low temperatures that could cause ice and snow build up on roads.
The Need for Chains
Even if a company is located in an area where highways don’t usually have much in the way of snow or ice accumulation, there still may be times when it could be impossible to avoid driving on roads that are covered with snow. Also, if the company offers services that include heavy equipment such as dump trucks and other types of heavy trucks, it is important to know when and where chains can be used.
A classic example of heavy equipment that may be needed during the winter season are bucket trucks as they frequently need to service lines on electrical poles in an area covered with snow. The tires are the most important part of the vehicle about which an operator should be concerned. These heavy metal links when attached to the tires will help the truck reach the job site without getting stuck on roads covered in snow or ice and will also help to stabilize it at the job site while working. Another example is trucks with tractor-trailers that could become stuck in the middle of the highway and even worse, the tractor-trailer could jackknife and block the entire road. In any event, these are scenarios everyone in this business wants to avoid.
Specifications
There are specifications available for chains for any truck tires that you purchase. The size should correspond exactly to the current ones for easy installation and to prevent the chains from shifting around the tire or coming lose with resulting damage to trailer parts. In addition, by purchasing the ones that are specifically designed for it, they will fit perfectly to the tire and thus eliminate the need for any extra tensioning devices. Catalogues can also be referenced, when such are available, to check the listings for the specific size that is designed for the tires.
Time of Usage
When the road being driven upon actually has ice and/or snow build-up and has a sign that says, “Chain-Up Area,” this is basically stating that now is the time to put the proper gear on the tires. It is important to take note that different states have different laws which have been implemented regarding snow chains and depending on each particular state, the regulations should be closely adhered to concerning allowable installation and position. Many times there are patrol cars assigned to patrol the highways to make certain that vehicles comply with the laws in each state.
Location of Usage
The states of California, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington have more comprehensive or more specific and sometimes complicated laws when it comes to putting winter gear on your tires. Other states, such as Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Utah and Wyoming have either no such laws implemented or at least allow you to carry a particular amount of winter gear for your wheels that you are able to use, if necessary. They may also have laws that are implemented only when necessary.
Since jurisdiction varies from one state to the other regarding the actual standard of tire chains, it is helpful to inquire from a State Officer, visit the particular state’s website or, better yet, call that state’s DOT before traveling within that state.
Further Thoughts
It is annoying and unavoidable that the cold and miserable outside temperatures cannot be avoided. This is especially true when it becomes necessary to install chains to your wheels. It cannot be forgotten that chains may very well be the most useful gear possible to assure that commercial driving can continue and be done with safety. Without this equipment, driving could become very difficult, if not impossible. Having chains handy and ready for all commercial trucks gives the advantage of traveling safely. Purchasing the correct type will help to increase tire traction without needing to worry about any tire or vehicular damage.
Hopefully the above information and thoughts have been helpful in learning about when and where to use truck chains – hope your winter driving continues to be safe!
Christopher M. Hunter is an expert in commercial specialty trucks. Click here to find out more about Bucket Truck Parts.
