Do you know how to install chains? Do you know how to drive with them?
At some point, even winter tyres may no longer be enough and you may need chains. They are the last hope for mobility in harsh winter conditions, so here are some basic rules and key questions that arise when driving with chains.
Every driver should know that chains should always be fitted to the drive wheels. But of course, to fit them, you need to have them in the trunk and they need to fit the size of the wheels.
If you need a chain urgently, online shopping is not the answer, so visiting a Bartog branch is the right last-minute measure. Don't be fooled into thinking that you can install the chains in five minutes without at least a quick look at the instructions. The most practical way to do this is to do it at the time of purchase and ask the seller about any uncertainties. The rules vary from one manufacturer to another.
If it is a 4WD vehicle, you need to buy two sets (2 pieces in the package). Actually, it depends on whether it is a permanent or a four-wheel drive vehicle, as four-wheel drive vehicles can behave like a conventional front-wheel drive vehicle. Models such as the Dacia Duster, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Nissan Qashqai… For permanent 4x4 vehicles, chains should be fitted on all wheels, both for more precise drive and for ESP. For high-end vehicles with four-wheel drive and sensitive torque vectoring systems, chains must be on all wheels.
Speed of chained driving?
Drivers should remember that rear wheels without chains still have very little traction. This can cause the rear end to drift when you let off the accelerator or brake in road turns, which is the most dangerous for the average driver. Please note that if you switch off the ESP system, the brakes will not be activated to prevent side-swiping. Similarly, if you rely on four-wheel drive with locking, in cheaper SUVs their centre viscous differential “locks” only up to 50–60km/h and then disengages.
If you have already switched off ESP, which is necessary on some vehicles to help the chains transfer power to the ground, please note that some vehicles automatically switch ESP back on after 50km/h. Important! It is dangerous to drive at speeds above 80km/h, especially if the snow layer is thin and you feel your tyres touching the asphalt, because the chain can break easily. Just as if I installed badly.
Good luck an have a safe trip
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