Anyone Have Experience With Snow Chains?

[Sach]

Interested to know how effective they are, and how much of a hassle they can be when it comes to removing or installing them.

thanks

 

[Thatman]

Well they are effective enough to be required on some passes. As I'm sure you already know that. As far as the hassle, I've never put them on but a set of dedicated winter tires would be better.

 

[SRV2LOW4ME]

They're not too bad to install, and after a couple of times doing it, you'll be able to do it quickly with little problems. The ones I put on had you lay the chains on the ground behind the wheels and then back the vehicle up onto them, then simply wrap them around the wheel and lock them on. Easy, Breezy...

 

[Slash]

We use them on small vehicles here in NY and they greatly increase traction however the ride gets extremely bumpy. For cars we get the snow tires with the built in spikes for grip.

 

[Keef]

They're certainly useful, but you need to take them off on clear pavement which is a big hassle. Like Thatman said, a set of studless ice & snow tires will treat you surprisingly well. If you're in an area where you can use/need studs, get studdable ice& snow tires. Just remember that studs (or chains) aren't meant to be used at highway speeds. Studs can fly out of the tire if you drive fast enough.

 

[Sach]

I appreciate the replies, and I'll definitely check out the tires you've recommended. I generally travel to work via bus, after leaving my vehicle at a park-n-ride, and I would be concerned with how safe leaving the snow chains on the tires would be. I would hate to have them stolen, and if it's a huge hassle to take them on and off every day I guess the snow tires would be better.