How to find tire chain size


How to Read Your Tire Size | Tire Chains Required

How to Read Your Tire Size | Tire Chains Required | The Traction Specialists© – Tire Chains by TireChainsRequired.com

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Select Size10-16.5 10-16.5 SkidSteer 10-17.5 10-22.5 10.00-15 10.00-15TR 10.00-16.5 10.00-20 10.00-22 10.25x3.25 10.5/80-18 10/10.5x2.75 10x3.50 11-17.5 11-22.5 11-24.5 11.00-15 11.00-15TR 11.00-16 11.00-20 11.00-22 11.2-16 11.2-20 11.2-24 11.2-28 11.2-32 11.2-34 11.2-36 11.2-38 11.2-44 11L-16 12-22.5 12-24.5 12.00-15 12.00-16.5 12.00-16.5 Skidsteer 12.00-20 12.00-24 12.25x3.50x6 12.4-16 12.4-20 12.4-24 12.4-28 12.4-36 12.4-38 12.4-40 12.4-42 12.5-20 12.5-22.5 12.5/80-18 12x12 12x3 12x3.50x6 13.00-24 13.00-25 13.50-16.1 13.6-16 13.6-24 13.6-26 13.6-28 13.6-36 13.6-38 13.9-36 13/80-20 13x4.00-6 13x5x6 13x6.50-6 14-17.5 14-17.5 Skidsteer 14.00-20 14.00-21 14.00-24 14.00-25 14.9-24 14.9-26 14.9-28 14. 9-30 14.9-38 14.9-46 14/80-20 14x4.00x6 14x4.50-6 15-19.5 15-22.5 15.5-25 15.5-38 15x5.00-6 15x6.00-6 16.00-20 16.00-21 16.00-24 16.00-25 16.5-22.5 16.9-24 16.9-26 16.9-28 16.9-30 16.9-32 16.9-34 16.9-38 16x4.80x8 16x4.8x8 16x6.50x8 16x7.50-8 17.5-24 17.5-25 17.5L-24 18.4-16.1 18.4-24 18.4-26 18.4-28 18.4-30 18.4-34 18.4-38 18.4-42 18.4-46 185-14 18x6.50x8 18x8.5-10 18x8.50x8 18x9.50x8 19.5L-24 195/75-14 195/75-15 20.5-25 20.8-34 20.8-38 205-16 205/60-17.5 205/75-14 205/80-12 20x10-9 20x10.00-10 20x10.00-8 20x10x8 20x8.00x10 20x8x8 20x9x8 21.5L-16.1 215/70-17.5 215/75-14 215/75-15 215/75-17.5 215/80-16 215/85-16 21L-24 21x11.00-8 22.5x10.00-8 225/55-18 225/65-18 225/70-16 225/70-17.5 225/70-19.5 225/70-22.5 225/75-15 225/75-16 225/75-17 22x10-12 22x10-8 22x10x10 22x10x9 22x11.00-8 22x11x10 22x11x8 22x11x9 22x12-8 22x8x11 22x9.00-8 22x9.50-12 23.1-26 23.1-30 23.1-34 23.5-25 23.5x8-11 235/50-18 235/55-17 235/60-17 235/60-18 235/65-17 235/65-18 235/70-15 235/70-16 235/70-17 235/75-15 235/75-16 235/75-17 235/75-17. 5 235/80-16 235/80-17 235/80-22.5 235/85-16 23x10-12 23x10.50-12 23x10x10 23x11-10 23x7.50x12 23x8-10 23x8-11 23x8.50-12 23x8.50-14 23x9.50x12 24.5-32 245/55-17 245/65-15 245/65-17 245/70-15 245/70-16 245/70-17 245/70-17.5 245/70-19.5 245/75-15 245/75-16 245/75-17 245/75-22.5 245/85-16 24x10.50-12 24x10x11 24x11-11 24x11.00-12 24x11.5x10 24x11x10 24x11x8 24x11x9 24x12-10 24x12-12 24x13x12 24x13x9 24x8-11 24x8.00-12 24x8.00-14 24x8.50-12 24x8.50-14 24x9.50-12 24x9x11 24x9x12 250-15 255/45-18 255/55-17 255/55-18 255/60-17 255/60-18 255/65-15 255/65-16 255/65-17 255/70-15 255/70-16 255/70-17 255/70-18 255/70-22.5 255/75-15 255/75-16 255/75-17 255/80-22.5 255/85-16 25x10-8 25x10x10 25x10x12 25x11x10 25x11x12 25x11x8 25x12x10 25x12x9 25x13-9 25x13.50-9 25x13.5x12 25x7.50-15 25x8-10 25x8-11 25x8.50-14 25x8x12 26.5-25 26.5-29 265/50-16 265/50-20 265/60-16 265/60-18 265/65-17 265/70-15 265/70-16 265/70-17 265/70-18 265/70-19.5 265/75-15 265/75-16 265/75-22.5 265/80-16 26x10-12 26x10-14 26x10.5x12 26x11-12 26x11-14 26x12-14 26x12. 00-12 26x8-12 26x9-12 26x9-14 26x9.5-12 270/60-12 270/95-36 275/45-20 275/55-17 275/55-18 275/55-20 275/60-15 275/60-16 275/60-17 275/60-18 275/60-20 275/60HR17 275/65-16 275/65-17 275/65-18 275/70-16 275/70-17 275/70-18 275/70-22.5 275/80-22.5 275/80-24.5 27x10-14 27x10.50-15 27x10x12 27x11-12 27x11-14 27x12-14 27x12x12 27x8.50-14 27x8.50-15 27x9-12 27x9-14 27x9.50-15 28-Dec 28-Nov 285/45-19 285/50-20 285/60-16 285/60-17 285/60-18 285/65-17 285/65-18 285/70-16 285/70-17 285/70-19.5 285/75-16 285/75-24.5 28L-26 28l26 28x10-14 28x12-15 28x8.50x14 28x9-14 28x9-15 29.5-25 29.5-29 290/95-34 295/45-20 295/50-16 295/70-17 295/70-22.5 295/75-16 295/75-22.5 295/75-24.5 295/80-22.5 29x11-14 29x12-15 29x12.50-15 29x8-15 29x9-14 29x9.50-15 3.40/3.00X5 30.5L-32 300/70-20 305/45-17 305/50-15 305/50-20 305/55-20 305/60-18 305/70-16 305/70-17 305/70-22.5 305/75-24.5 305/85-16 305/85-22.5 30x10-14 30x9.50-15 30x9.50-16 315/45-22.5 315/70-15 315/70-17 315/70-22.5 315/75-15 315/75-16 315/75-22.5 315/75-24. 5 315/80-22.5 31x10.50-15 31x10.50-16.5 31x11.50-15 31x11.50-16 31x12.50-16 31x13.5-15 31x15.50-15 320/70-20 320/70-24 320/80-18 320/85-34 320/90-46 325/60-15 325/60-18 325/60-20 325/65-18 325/80-16 32x10-16 32x11.50-15 32x11.50-16 32x12.50-15 32x12.50-16.5 32x9-16 33x10.50x15 33x12.50-15 33x12.50-16.5 33x13.50-15 33x13.50-16 33x14.50-15 33x14x15 33x15.5-16.5 33x9.50-15 340/80-18 340/85-24 340/85-28 345/55-16 345/55-17 34x9.50-15 34x9x16 35.5-32 355/60-20 355/65-18 355/80-20 35x12.5-16 35x12.50-15 35x12.50-16.5 35x12.50-17 35x12.50-20 35x13.50-15 35x13.50-16 35x14-15 35x14-16 360/70-24 365/60-22.5 365/65-16 36x12.50-15 36x12.50-16.5 36x13x16 36x14-16.5 37x12.50-16.5 37x12.50-17 37x12.50-20 37x12.50x16 37x13.50-17 37x13.50-20 38.5x15-16.5 380/85-24 380/85-28 380/85-30 385/95R24 38x12.50x16.50 38x13x16 38x15.50R16.5 395/85-20 4.00x4.80x8 4.10/3.50x4 4.10/3.50x5 4.10/3.50x6 4.10x3.50x6 400/70-20 400/80-28 405/70-20 40x19-19.5 41x14.00-20 420/70-24 420/70-28 420/70-30 420/80-46 420/90-30 425/65-22. 5 43/16.00x20 440/65-28 440/80-28 440/80-34 445/65-19.5 445/65-22.5 445/70-24 44x18.00-20 455/55R22.5 460/65-24 480/65-28 480/80-30 5.00/5.70x8 5.30/4.50x6 550/65-25 555/70-25 6.00-14 6.50-10 6.50-16 6.50-20 6.70-15 600/50-22.5 600/55-26.5 600/65-34 6x12 7-17.5 7.00-12 7.00-14 7.00-15 7.00-15TR 7.00-16 7.00-17 7.00-18 7.00-20 7.2-24 7.50-10 7.50-15 7.50-15TR 7.50-16 7.50-17 7.50-18 7.50-20 700/45-22.5 700/50-26.5 700/50-34 700/55-34 700/70-34 705/70-25 710/45-26.5 710/55-34 73/44.00-32 750/55-26.5 750/65-25 755/70-25 8-17.5 8-19.5 8-22.5 8.00-16.5 8.15x15 8.25-15 8.25-15TR 8.25-20 8.3-24 8.50-17.5 8.75-16.5 8x12 8x15 8x16 9-14.5MH 9-17.5 9-22.5 9.00-15 9.00-15TR 9.00-16 9.00-20 9.5-16 9.5-24 9.5-28 9.5-32 9.5-36 9.5-38 9.50-16.5 H70-14ST H78-14ST H78-15 H78-15ST L78-16 LR78-15 LR78-16 Nov-36 Nov-38 NR78-15 Oct-32 Oct-38 PR78-15 PR78-16 QR78-15 QR78-16 Skidsteer

2.

Select Chain Size from All Available Tire Chains Select Size10-16. 5 10-16.5 SkidSteer 10-17.5 10-22.5 10.00-15 10.00-15TR 10.00-16.5 10.00-20 10.00-22 10.25x3.25 10.5/80-18 10/10.5x2.75 10x3.50 11-17.5 11-22.5 11-24.5 11.00-15 11.00-15TR 11.00-16 11.00-20 11.00-22 11.2-16 11.2-20 11.2-24 11.2-28 11.2-32 11.2-34 11.2-36 11.2-38 11.2-44 11L-16 12-22.5 12-24.5 12.00-15 12.00-16.5 12.00-16.5 Skidsteer 12.00-20 12.00-24 12.25x3.50x6 12.4-16 12.4-20 12.4-24 12.4-28 12.4-36 12.4-38 12.4-40 12.4-42 12.5-20 12.5-22.5 12.5/80-18 12x12 12x3 12x3.50x6 13.00-24 13.00-25 13.50-16.1 13.6-16 13.6-24 13.6-26 13.6-28 13.6-36 13.6-38 13.9-36 13/80-20 13x4.00-6 13x5x6 13x6.50-6 14-17.5 14-17.5 Skidsteer 14.00-20 14.00-21 14.00-24 14.00-25 14.9-24 14.9-26 14.9-28 14.9-30 14.9-38 14.9-46 14/80-20 14x4.00x6 14x4.50-6 15-19.5 15-22.5 15.5-25 15.5-38 15x5.00-6 15x6.00-6 16.00-20 16.00-21 16.00-24 16.00-25 16.5-22.5 16.9-24 16.9-26 16.9-28 16.9-30 16.9-32 16.9-34 16.9-38 16x4.80x8 16x4.8x8 16x6.50x8 16x7.50-8 17.5-24 17.5-25 17.5L-24 18.4-16.1 18.4-24 18.4-26 18.4-28 18.4-30 18. 4-34 18.4-38 18.4-42 18.4-46 185-14 18x6.50x8 18x8.5-10 18x8.50x8 18x9.50x8 19.5L-24 195/75-14 195/75-15 20.5-25 20.8-34 20.8-38 205-16 205/60-17.5 205/75-14 205/80-12 20x10-9 20x10.00-10 20x10.00-8 20x10x8 20x8.00x10 20x8x8 20x9x8 21.5L-16.1 215/70-17.5 215/75-14 215/75-15 215/75-17.5 215/80-16 215/85-16 21L-24 21x11.00-8 22.5x10.00-8 225/55-18 225/65-18 225/70-16 225/70-17.5 225/70-19.5 225/70-22.5 225/75-15 225/75-16 225/75-17 22x10-12 22x10-8 22x10x10 22x10x9 22x11.00-8 22x11x10 22x11x8 22x11x9 22x12-8 22x8x11 22x9.00-8 22x9.50-12 23.1-26 23.1-30 23.1-34 23.5-25 23.5x8-11 235/50-18 235/55-17 235/60-17 235/60-18 235/65-17 235/65-18 235/70-15 235/70-16 235/70-17 235/75-15 235/75-16 235/75-17 235/75-17.5 235/80-16 235/80-17 235/80-22.5 235/85-16 23x10-12 23x10.50-12 23x10x10 23x11-10 23x7.50x12 23x8-10 23x8-11 23x8.50-12 23x8.50-14 23x9.50x12 24.5-32 245/55-17 245/65-15 245/65-17 245/70-15 245/70-16 245/70-17 245/70-17.5 245/70-19.5 245/75-15 245/75-16 245/75-17 245/75-22.5 245/85-16 24x10. 50-12 24x10x11 24x11-11 24x11.00-12 24x11.5x10 24x11x10 24x11x8 24x11x9 24x12-10 24x12-12 24x13x12 24x13x9 24x8-11 24x8.00-12 24x8.00-14 24x8.50-12 24x8.50-14 24x9.50-12 24x9x11 24x9x12 250-15 255/45-18 255/55-17 255/55-18 255/60-17 255/60-18 255/65-15 255/65-16 255/65-17 255/70-15 255/70-16 255/70-17 255/70-18 255/70-22.5 255/75-15 255/75-16 255/75-17 255/80-22.5 255/85-16 25x10-8 25x10x10 25x10x12 25x11x10 25x11x12 25x11x8 25x12x10 25x12x9 25x13-9 25x13.50-9 25x13.5x12 25x7.50-15 25x8-10 25x8-11 25x8.50-14 25x8x12 26.5-25 26.5-29 265/50-16 265/50-20 265/60-16 265/60-18 265/65-17 265/70-15 265/70-16 265/70-17 265/70-18 265/70-19.5 265/75-15 265/75-16 265/75-22.5 265/80-16 26x10-12 26x10-14 26x10.5x12 26x11-12 26x11-14 26x12-14 26x12.00-12 26x8-12 26x9-12 26x9-14 26x9.5-12 270/60-12 270/95-36 275/45-20 275/55-17 275/55-18 275/55-20 275/60-15 275/60-16 275/60-17 275/60-18 275/60-20 275/60HR17 275/65-16 275/65-17 275/65-18 275/70-16 275/70-17 275/70-18 275/70-22.5 275/80-22.5 275/80-24.5 27x10-14 27x10. 50-15 27x10x12 27x11-12 27x11-14 27x12-14 27x12x12 27x8.50-14 27x8.50-15 27x9-12 27x9-14 27x9.50-15 28-Dec 28-Nov 285/45-19 285/50-20 285/60-16 285/60-17 285/60-18 285/65-17 285/65-18 285/70-16 285/70-17 285/70-19.5 285/75-16 285/75-24.5 28L-26 28l26 28x10-14 28x12-15 28x8.50x14 28x9-14 28x9-15 29.5-25 29.5-29 290/95-34 295/45-20 295/50-16 295/70-17 295/70-22.5 295/75-16 295/75-22.5 295/75-24.5 295/80-22.5 29x11-14 29x12-15 29x12.50-15 29x8-15 29x9-14 29x9.50-15 3.40/3.00X5 30.5L-32 300/70-20 305/45-17 305/50-15 305/50-20 305/55-20 305/60-18 305/70-16 305/70-17 305/70-22.5 305/75-24.5 305/85-16 305/85-22.5 30x10-14 30x9.50-15 30x9.50-16 315/45-22.5 315/70-15 315/70-17 315/70-22.5 315/75-15 315/75-16 315/75-22.5 315/75-24.5 315/80-22.5 31x10.50-15 31x10.50-16.5 31x11.50-15 31x11.50-16 31x12.50-16 31x13.5-15 31x15.50-15 320/70-20 320/70-24 320/80-18 320/85-34 320/90-46 325/60-15 325/60-18 325/60-20 325/65-18 325/80-16 32x10-16 32x11.50-15 32x11.50-16 32x12.50-15 32x12.50-16.5 32x9-16 33x10. 50x15 33x12.50-15 33x12.50-16.5 33x13.50-15 33x13.50-16 33x14.50-15 33x14x15 33x15.5-16.5 33x9.50-15 340/80-18 340/85-24 340/85-28 345/55-16 345/55-17 34x9.50-15 34x9x16 35.5-32 355/60-20 355/65-18 355/80-20 35x12.5-16 35x12.50-15 35x12.50-16.5 35x12.50-17 35x12.50-20 35x13.50-15 35x13.50-16 35x14-15 35x14-16 360/70-24 365/60-22.5 365/65-16 36x12.50-15 36x12.50-16.5 36x13x16 36x14-16.5 37x12.50-16.5 37x12.50-17 37x12.50-20 37x12.50x16 37x13.50-17 37x13.50-20 38.5x15-16.5 380/85-24 380/85-28 380/85-30 385/95R24 38x12.50x16.50 38x13x16 38x15.50R16.5 395/85-20 4.00x4.80x8 4.10/3.50x4 4.10/3.50x5 4.10/3.50x6 4.10x3.50x6 400/70-20 400/80-28 405/70-20 40x19-19.5 41x14.00-20 420/70-24 420/70-28 420/70-30 420/80-46 420/90-30 425/65-22.5 43/16.00x20 440/65-28 440/80-28 440/80-34 445/65-19.5 445/65-22.5 445/70-24 44x18.00-20 455/55R22.5 460/65-24 480/65-28 480/80-30 5.00/5.70x8 5.30/4.50x6 550/65-25 555/70-25 6.00-14 6.50-10 6.50-16 6.50-20 6.70-15 600/50-22.5 600/55-26.5 600/65-34 6x12 7-17.5 7. 00-12 7.00-14 7.00-15 7.00-15TR 7.00-16 7.00-17 7.00-18 7.00-20 7.2-24 7.50-10 7.50-15 7.50-15TR 7.50-16 7.50-17 7.50-18 7.50-20 700/45-22.5 700/50-26.5 700/50-34 700/55-34 700/70-34 705/70-25 710/45-26.5 710/55-34 73/44.00-32 750/55-26.5 750/65-25 755/70-25 8-17.5 8-19.5 8-22.5 8.00-16.5 8.15x15 8.25-15 8.25-15TR 8.25-20 8.3-24 8.50-17.5 8.75-16.5 8x12 8x15 8x16 9-14.5MH 9-17.5 9-22.5 9.00-15 9.00-15TR 9.00-16 9.00-20 9.5-16 9.5-24 9.5-28 9.5-32 9.5-36 9.5-38 9.50-16.5 H70-14ST H78-14ST H78-15 H78-15ST L78-16 LR78-15 LR78-16 Nov-36 Nov-38 NR78-15 Oct-32 Oct-38 PR78-15 PR78-16 QR78-15 QR78-16 Skidsteer
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Let’s face it, one of the most confusion things about buying tire chains is figuring out your tire size so you know what size chain to buy.

Metric Sizing

Most tires sold today are sized by the “metric” system. This sizing can be represented with no letter before the size, P-metric, LT-metric and ST-metric. Common examples of this are as follows: 235/75R15, P235/75R15, and LT235/75R15.

In these examples the first set of 3 digits is the width of the tire, measured from sidewall to sidewall, in millimeters, NOT the tread width.

The second group of digits is the “aspect ratio”. The Aspect Ratio is the height of sidewall from the wheel to the top of the tread. The height of the sidewall is a percent of the tire width ...the aspect ratio. In our example, 265/75, the sidewall height is 75% of the 265mm width, or 198mm.

The third set of digits is the rim diameter in inches.


Flotation Sizing

Flotation sizing is used for some cars and truck, and used for small tires such as the ones used on trailers, tractors, and ATVs ie... 22x10x10, 18x9.5x8. All of the measurements are in inches. The first number is for the height. The second number is the sidewall width. The last digits are the rim diameter.


Numeric Sizing

Numeric sizing is used light truck, 205-16, commercial truck, 11-22.5, and agricultural, 9.5-24, applications. The first digits are the width, sidewall to sidewall. The second digits represent the rim size. If your tire size happens to have three sets of numbers, 31x15.50-15, the first number is the height, the second number is the width, and the third number is the rim diameter.

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What Size Of Tire Chains Do You Need? | CarShtuff

Tire chains can improve your vehicle’s traction in ice and snow. But what size of tire chains do you need for your tires? Well, the answers are right here.

Are tire chains universal? Can you use any tire chain that you come across? What size of tire chains should you purchase for your vehicle?

Tire chains are designed to fit different tire sizes. Therefore, the size you should buy will depend on your vehicle’s tire size. The tire size is usually indicated on the tire’s sidewall, looking something like 175/65R/14. You will then buy tire chains that correspond to this number.

If you are in the market for tire chains, you may be wondering which size to choose for your tires. Well, this guide has all the information that you need. In this article, we will share tips for choosing the right size of tire chains for your tires.

We are committed to publishing well-researched, informative, helpful and high-quality articles. And we have an editorial team of seasoned professionals, drawn from various fields and industries, to enable us to meet this goal. Therefore, you can be assured you are getting your information from a trustworthy source.

Overview

When winter comes around, most drivers will swap their all-season or summer tires with their set of winter tires. But, as much as winter tires may provide you with some much-needed traction, it may not be enough, especially if you live in areas that experience dense, heavy snowing during the winter months.

And this is where tire chains come in. Tire chains will bite deep into heavy snow, ice, and slush, thus providing your vehicle with that extra traction it needs to pull through while ensuring you arrive safely at your destination.

However, if you’ve never purchased a set of tire chains before, you may be wondering about which size to choose for your tires. Well, this article will walk you through everything that you need to know about tire chains as well as how to choose the right size for your vehicle.

About Tire Chains

So, what exactly are tire chains? Well, tire chains are more of a chain system, which has been designed to cover your vehicle’s wheel or tire setup. When properly installed, this chain system will help to enhance your vehicle’s grip and traction in snowy conditions.

Also, tire chains can help your vehicle to navigate through frozen surfaces such as ice-covered roads.  So, if you live in a mountainous region or any area that experiences heavy snowing or ice-covered roads during the winter months, then tire chains will come in handy.

Also, some states may require drivers to install them in case inclement weather makes it unsafe or dangerous to drive using the ordinary tire and wheel setup. Some of the states where drivers may be required to install tire chains on their vehicles include Colorado, Oregon, Nevada, Washington, and California. Usually, road signs will be put up requiring drivers of certain vehicles to carry tire chains and when to use them.

When shopping for tire chains for your vehicle, you will come across numerous designs out there. For instance, you may come across a particular design, which usually covers the tread pattern of the tire. This one is usually mounted to the wheel. Another design wraps around the tires. This design is usually fastened using tensioners.

How Tire Chains Work

Tire chains usually wrap around tires’ tread. However, they latch on the tires tightly, thus preventing any slippage. When installed on the wheel set-up, they will grip the road, thus enabling the tires to deliver better traction in snowy conditions and frozen surfaces. In short, they will give your vehicle enhanced traction and better handling in inclement weather.

Apart from enhancing a vehicle’s grip and traction on snowy and frozen surfaces, tire chains can also help to minimize wheel spin. Wheel spin usually occurs when the force supplied to the tire’s tread through the engine is bigger than the available tread-to-surface friction. As a result, the tire will lose friction, resulting in wheel spin.

However, while tire chains will significantly boost your vehicle’s grip and traction when driving in snowy and icy conditions, they usually come with various restrictions, depending on the state. For instance, in some areas, drivers are not allowed to exceed certain speed limits when using tire chains.

How to Choose the Right Size of Tire Chains

Just like tires, tire chains come in different sizes. These different sizes are designed to fit the different sizes of tires out there. So, when it comes to buying tire chains, you need to make sure you choose the right size. And to ensure you choose the right size, you will first need to determine your tire sizes. Here are the steps to follow.

First, you will need to take a closer look at the side of your tires. Here, you will see a collection of some letters and numbers.

Second, you should identify and note down the first three numbers on the tire that have been grouped. These numbers usually follow a particular letter. If you are driving a passenger vehicle, then the three letters will follow the letter P, which denotes a passenger vehicle tire. The three numbers indicate the tire’s width in millimeters.

Third, note down the two numbers before the R and after the dash. These two numbers will indicate the tire’s width to height ratio.

Fourth, locate and note down the two numbers after the R. In most tires, these two numbers will represent the wheel diameter, which is usually indicated in inches.

Fifth, write down all these numbers together, separated by slashes or dashes. The numbers you’ve written down should resemble something like this 175/65R/14, depending on your tire sizes.

You will then visit a local auto supply store, hardware store or any other place where they may be selling tires and present this piece of paper. The store attendant will then retrieve the right tire chains according to your tire sizes.

Installing Tire Chains

After purchasing a set of tire chains based on your tire sizes, you can now proceed to install them. And, you don’t need complex tools or skills to install them. You only need the chains. Usually, tire chains come with mounting instructions on how to do it. So, you should encounter any issues with this process.

However, before you proceed to install the chains, you should first check your vehicle’s wheel drive. If your vehicle is a front-wheel drive, then you should install the tire chains on the front wheels. On the other hand, if your vehicle is rear-wheel drive, then you will install the tire chains on the rear wheels.

And if you happen to have an all-wheel or four-wheel drive vehicle, you can install the chains on either the front, rear or all wheels.

After you’ve finished installing the tire chains, you should check they have been properly installed before you start driving. All the chains should run straight and tight around the tire sides. They shouldn’t be loose or misaligned. If you notice such an issue, you should first fix it before you start driving.

From there, you should then drive for around 100 feet at the side of the road. You should then check again whether there’s anything loose or they are misaligned. And if everything looks good, then you are ready to hit the road.

Wrapping It Up

A reliable set of tire chains will come in handy during the months. They will help to boost your vehicle’s grip and traction on snow-covered roads and frozen surfaces. You just need to ensure you purchase the right size, depending on your tire size.

How to choose a chain. Complete guide. Types, features and examples of use of

A chain is a flexible long product made up of links connected in series and movably. This ingenious invention of mankind in modern realities has not lost its former popularity and is widely used on ships, in ports, in logging, in cargo transportation, in production, in the mining industry, agriculture, everyday life, interiors and landscape design.

nine0002 Chains are distinguished by purpose, design, material, link size, strength and many other features that determine the scope of their application. Among the huge variety of link structures, four main groups can be distinguished.

General Purpose Chains

This group includes steel round link chains of normal strength with a caliber from 2 to 16 mm with welded links. They are manufactured in accordance with DIN 763, DIN 5685 Form C (long link) and DIN 766, DIN 5685 Form A (short link) from grade 2 mild steel. and non-lifting loads. In the household, they are used to tie animals, raise well water, make swings. Chain branches, consisting of long links, have better mobility, but are inferior to analogues with a short link in strength. nine0003

Comparison between short link and long link general purpose chain

Load and haul chains of normal strength

These are products with quality class 2, 2.5, 3.5, 5, 7, 8, with a stress at a minimum breaking load of 240 to 800 N/mm². They go to the manufacture of chain slings and are used as part of various lifting and transport machines and mechanisms. With their help, overall and heavy loads are attached to water and land transport. They are mainly used with blocks and winches, for tying, suspension, lifting and holding loads; traction - for moving goods. Manufactured in accordance with GOST 2319or TU (manufacturer's internal standards).

Heavy Duty Load Chains

This group includes high-strength hardened chains of class T(8) with a tensile strength at breaking load of 800 N/mm² and above. They are made from a round steel bar with a section diameter of 4 to 20 mm from high-alloy steel. The place of closure of the rings is welded by electric welding and processed from the burr. Finished products undergo high temperature quenching to improve load capacity, fatigue strength, resistance to abrasive materials and excessive friction. Calibration of each link guarantees high accuracy of shapes and sizes and allows them to be used for work on sprockets of load-lifting and traction devices. Technical requirements for them establish standards GOST 30188-97 and GOST 25996 (for mining equipment).

Decorative chains

This group of products impresses with a variety of shapes, sizes, colors and materials used, which implies many options for their application. Thanks to various coatings, they perfectly imitate non-ferrous and precious metals, which allows you to realize any creative idea in interior design and landscape design. Decorative chains are often used by designers of costume jewelry, clothes and haberdashery. Plastic chains with links of bright signal colors are used for zoning public spaces, parking lots, sports grounds. nine0003

What is the chain pitch and gauge

Step is the measurement of the internal length of each individual link. Manufacturers may use the letter "P" or t to indicate the pitch, for example P = 24 mm or t = 24.

Caliber is the nominal diameter (d) of the section of the round steel from which the links are made. Often, gauge refers to the size of the chain, such as 8 mm, 10 mm, 12 mm, etc. More often, however, the size designation includes caliber and pitch separated by a multiplication sign. For example: 6x19mm, 8x24 mm, 14x50 mm.

Classification of welded round link chains

Depending on the pitch to gauge ratio, the chains are divided into:

  • short link (type A)
  • long link (type B)

When choosing a chain for a particular application, consumers often ask themselves: - "What is the difference between a short link and a long link chain, other than the obvious size of the links?" nine0003

The short link design (P/d < 3. 5) makes the chain easier to handle, less prone to tangling when stored in a storage container, but not as agile as a long link chain. Its main advantage is in terms of strength: with the same caliber, a chain with a short link can withstand greater loads than with a long link. It is more difficult to damage when tightening at sharp corners. Short links are tighter on the gripping hooks, so there is less risk of them slipping off. nine0003

The long link construction (P/d ≥ 3.5) has a large degree of freedom in all directions and is better suited for fastening, extension, shortening. It is easy to make a loop out of it by threading a link into a link. But its main advantage over the short link is in less weight and price, since there are fewer rings per meter.

Conclusion: The type of chain must be selected depending on the tasks assigned to it. If mobility and weight are less important criteria than strength, then you should opt for a short link. In hoisting mechanisms with blocks and drums, only short-link chains are used for operation in order to prevent the occurrence of a large bending moment. nine0003

Important: When purchasing, make sure that the internal dimensions of the link are sufficient to pass a hook or other connecting elements (shackles, rings, carabiners, eyelets, etc.) through it.

Round link chains are divided into:

  • calibrated (version 1)
  • uncalibrated (version 2)

What is the difference between calibrated chains and uncalibrated chains? nine0007

The calibrated chain is made of round calibrated steel and has a high accuracy of execution within the specified strict tolerance for pitch, section diameter, link width, external and internal length. The maximum deviation from the regulated dimensions is ± 3%. Calibrated chains after heat treatment are necessarily subjected to tension by a calibration load in order to obtain the specified maximum deviations of the pitch and length of the segment.

nine0002 Uncalibrated chains have a rated tolerance of ±10%, therefore they are designed to work on smooth drums or in static fastening systems.

Where are calibrated chains used?

A calibrated chain is used as a flexible lifting and traction body for chain conveyors, elevators, winches, hoists and other mechanisms with gear drums or chain sprockets. It works as part of bucket conveyors, lifting equipment, traction and lifting mechanisms with manual and mechanical drives. Sprockets or drums are usually designed and manufactured to ensure compatibility with a given chain size and gauge for optimum engagement. nine0003

Note: Both types of chains can be used as load chains.

How to choose a chain that will not stick or slip on sprockets?

It's not enough to get the gauge and pitch right, it's important that the chain is calibrated to tight tolerances or it will "bounce" under load. When the link pitch has deviations from tolerances of more than 3%, this is difficult to determine visually, but is easily confirmed in practical tests. A slippage or sticking problem usually occurs after the chain has gone through a few turns under load. nine0003

How to check chain calibration?

If you are looking for a calibrated winch chain and are unsure of the quality of the sizing, there is an easy way to check that it matches the tolerance limits for your winch drum.

To do this, you need to buy a meter length of the chain branch and measure the length of 11 links. Why exactly 11 links? – because it is a generally accepted standard length. Use a ruler to measure the distance from the inside of the first link to the inside of the last link. When doing this, make sure the chain is taut to ensure an accurate measurement. nine0003

Important! The limit deviation of the pitch for a calibrated chain must not exceed ±3% of the regulated value!

Table 1. Normal measurement results for a calibrated short link chain DIN 766

nine0115 28
Caliber, mm Pitch mm Length 11 links, mm
6 18. 5 203.5
7 22 242
8 24 264
10 308
12 36 396
13 36 396

Tip: For European-made anchor winches, choose calibrated DIN 766 short link chains as they will fit perfectly on the drums mounted on them. nine0003

Strength rating of round link chains

In the characteristics of the product, manufacturers indicate three types of load. The maximum working loads are based on proof tests and should never exceed the rated working loads suggested by the chain manufacturer, individual specifications or testing agency for the chain size and grade in question.

Working load (carrying capacity) - the maximum load that the product can be subjected to during operation. It is the breaking load divided by the safety factor. This coefficient varies from 3 to 8 depending on the purpose of the chain and the manufacturer. Usually it is 4, in which case the working load is a quarter of the breaking load. nine0003

The proof load is the reference tensile test load that was loaded on the specimen at the factory during the test procedure. Typically, it is twice the ultimate working load, which is half the breaking load. This is a very important test, proving that each link has been welded well.

Breaking load is the ultimate tensile strength of 4 times the working load limit. Standards require a specific level of breaking load for each chain size, gauge and grade. For some manufacturers, it may exceed the minimum standard, which is reflected in the test certificate. nine0003

Circuit calculation example:

When choosing a welded round link chain for the lifting mechanism, a simple calculation is performed for a given load and safety factor.

For example: For a manual hoist, the size of the calibrated chain must be selected. Assumed maximum working load: S = 12 kN (1200 kgf).

In accordance with the standards of Gostekhnadzor, we accept a margin of safety equal to 4.5: 1. nine0003

We calculate the breaking load according to the formula P = 4.5 x 12 kN = 54 kN (5400 kgf) .

According to table 2 (source: GOST 2319-81), we select a short-link calibrated chain of size 13x36 mm, for which the tensile strength is 66 kN (6600 kgf).

Table 2. Dimensions and loads for load and haul chains, type A, version 1

nine0131
nine0037 Caliber, d mm Pitch, p mm Width b mm Previous deviation section length l=11p Load, kN
nominal prev. deviation nominal prev.deviation nine0118 nominal prev.deviation trial destructive
five ±0.4 18.5 ±0.5 17 ±0.5 +1.5 -0.5 nine0118 5.0 10.0
6 18.5 (19) 20 (21) ±0.6 7.0 14.0
7 22 23 ±0.7 nine0118 9.0 18.0
8 23 (24) ±0.6 26 (27) ±0.8 13.0 26.0
nine ±0.5 27 nine0118 32 ±0.9 +2.5 -0.8 16.0 32.0
9. 5 27 31 ±1.0 17.0 34.0
10 nine0118 28 34 ±1.1 20.0 40.0
eleven 31 ±1.0 36 ±1.3 23.0 46.0
13 36 44 (43) ±1.6 +3.8 -1.3 33.0 66.0
sixteen ±0.8 45 (44 53 (54) ±1.8 nine0118 51.0 102.0
eighteen 50 60 ±2.0 63.0 126.0
20 56 ±1.5 67 nine0118 ±2.3 +5.5 -1.8 80.0 160. 0
23 ±1.0 64 77 ±2.6 100.0 200.0
26 nine0118 73 ±2.0 87 - - 126.0 252.0
28 78 - 94 - - nine0118 150.0 300.0
thirty 84 - 101 - - 170.0 340.0
33 ±1.5 nine0118 92 - 112 - - 200.0 400.0
36 101 - 122 - - nine0118 250.0 500.0
39 109 - 132 - - 280. 0 560.0
42 118 nine0118 - 142 - - 340.0 680.0

What is chain quality grade?

Quality class is a characteristic that allows you to evaluate the strength of the chain. It depends on the mechanical characteristics of the finished product, and not on the ultimate strength of the alloy used for its manufacture. The quality class is usually indicated by numbers from 2 to 12. Some standards, for example, GOST 29996-97, establish the letter designation of the class - B, C, D.

Chains of normal strength (cargo, traction and general purpose), depending on the mechanical properties, have the appropriate quality class - 2; 2.5; 3; 3.5; five; 7, and high-strength (lifting) class 8, 10, 12 (T8, T10, T12).

Table 3. Strength values ​​for chains of various quality grades

nine0037 Quality class 2 2. 5 3.5 5 B 7 8(C) 10(D)
Test load stress, N/mm 75-120 120 240 315 500 600 640 800
Tension under breaking load, N/mm nine0118 150-240 240 360 500 630 750 800 1000

With the same nominal diameter of the links, the load capacity of the chain of the 8th quality class is 50% higher than the load capacity of the chains of the 5th quality class, and the load capacity of class 10 chains is 25% higher than that of products of quality class 8. Accordingly, the load capacity of class 12 is 25% higher than class 10. nine0003

The use of high-strength chains in lifting and rigging operations allows you to reduce the weight of chain slings. With equal load capacity, the weight of the chain of the 8th quality class is 30% of the weight of the 3rd class. The higher the quality class, the higher the surface hardness of the bows and the higher the wear resistance and susceptibility to damage from sharp edges.

Effect of Temperature on the Load Capacity of High Strength Chains

Their carrying capacity remains stable when operating in the temperature range from -40 to +200ºС. With an increase in temperature to +300ºС, the workload drops by 10%, and when it rises to +400ºС, it decreases by 25%. If the threshold of +400ºС is exceeded, operation is prohibited. nine0003

What chains are used on car tires?

To ensure the stability of the car when driving on ice, loose soils and snowy winter roads, snow chains are used. These are ready-made chain products that are put on the wheels of cars and make it easy to overcome even the most impassable areas. For their manufacture, high-strength hardened galvanized steel is used, which guarantees special resistance to abrasion, reliability and durability. nine0003

The range of snow chains covers almost all possible wheel sizes. The special pattern of the ladder, diamond or honeycomb chain tread provides optimal grip and comfortable movement.

How to choose wheel chains?

On finished chain protectors, manufacturers indicate the size of the tires and the type of vehicle for which they are intended. For those who plan to make wheel chains with their own hands, we recommend using the following gauge and link pitch: nine0003

  • for cars: 3.5x12 mm
  • crossovers, SUVs, commercial vehicles: 4.5x16 mm
  • trucks, buses and special vehicles: 7x24 mm

Chain consumption depends on the wheel diameter, tread width and profile height of the tire, as well as on the selected pattern. For example, to “shod” two wheels of a passenger car in lugs with a “ladder” pattern, approximately 15 meters will be required. nine0003

How to choose an anti-theft chain for a bicycle or motorcycle?

One of the most reliable ways to protect an unattended motorcycle or bicycle from theft is a bike chain lock. It's easy to do it yourself. To do this, you will need a piece of chain and a padlock (with a key or combination). You should not look for an old chain in the garage or purchase it at a hardware store. For an anti-theft chain-lock, you need not an economic, but a high-strength solid hardened chain. nine0003

The anti-theft chain is made of thermally hardened steel and has an increased strength class T-8. It is difficult to cut it and it is almost impossible to bite even with a powerful bolt cutter. And not every thief carries hydraulic scissors or a grinder in his pocket. The chain links are firmly welded, so they cannot be unbent with wrenches. Even experienced hijackers will have to tinker with such a chain, and this will give you time or the attacker will look for another, less secure candidate for hijacking. nine0003

What is the optimal length and gauge of an anti-theft chain?

Leaving a two-wheeled "horse" in a temporary parking lot, it must be fastened to something immovable and indestructible (pole, tree, fence), and the chain must wrap around not only the wheel, but also the frame. Otherwise, a surprise will await you in the form of a lone chained wheel. Depending on what you will fasten your bike or motorcycle to, the length of the chain can vary from 60 to 120 cm. As for the diameter of the chain bar, it can be 8 mm, 10 mm or 13 mm. As practice shows, the larger the caliber of the link, the less chance the hijacker has. nine0003

If the chain is not in doubt about the reliability, then the weak link in this anti-theft device may be the lock. Time is important for a thief, so he is unlikely to start poking around in the castle when you can just bite his shackle. Therefore, the locking shackle of the lock must be no less strong than the chain links.

The assortment of the Krepkom store always has hardened chains of any caliber and chain locks with a high degree of protection against opening, breaking, sawing and corrosion. Instead of a bow-shaped bracket, the locks have a thick locking pin made of extra strong hardened steel. It is difficult to get close to it with wire cutters, a mount or a hacksaw, which makes it difficult to break in by force. nine0003

The Krepkom store offers a wide range of chains for various purposes and finished products from them (household, sanitary, decorative chains, knot, ball, anti-skid chains, for tying livestock and slipway repair, etc.). If you have any questions when choosing, our specialists are ready to advise you by phone: +8 (800) 333-21-68.

Chains, slings, rigging Updated: 20.12.2022 17:01:48 nine0003

Maxim

Specialist in the field of fasteners and rigging products. More than 10 years of work in the field of construction, repair and equipment.
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Maxim

Specialist in the field of fasteners and rigging products. More than 10 years of work in the field of construction, repair and equipment. nine0741 — "We try to convey to you only relevant and reliable information, we will be glad to hear your feedback regarding this article"

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How to choose snow chains for wheels

In winter, drivers often have to drive through icy, snowy and other difficult terrain. Without additional equipment to prevent slipping, it is extremely difficult to overcome such sections of the road. Once faced with such difficulties, many motorists begin to investigate the question of how to choose chains for wheels. nine0003

Purpose of using anti-skid accessories

The presence of winter and even studded tires is not a guarantee that the machine will pass through ice or deep snow. But a car equipped with snow chains is more maneuverable, able to overcome deep snow, mud or sand.

And if in our country car owners somehow manage with studded tires, then in Europe a wheel chain is a necessary element of car equipment, along with a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher. For driving without this equipment on some roads under certain weather conditions, the driver will face a substantial fine. nine0003

Snow chains will also be appreciated by outdoor enthusiasts (hunters, fishermen, skiers), summer residents and anyone who cares about the safety of passengers and seeks to improve driving comfort in difficult conditions.

Types of snow chains

There are several types of such equipment. To choose the right model, you should understand the differences between them:

  1. Chains . They have high traction qualities, are distinguished by endurance and long service life. The disadvantage of this type of design is the complexity of operation. Breaking them can damage the wheel and body. nine0042
  2. Belts . They are easier to use, easier to store and maintain, but they do not have the same traction characteristics and fail faster. But a broken belt is safe for the car.
  3. Bracelets are a stronger and more durable analogue of belts, but inferior to them in ease of use.
  4. Tracks - anti slip tape. This studded rubber mat helps get a stalled car out of a pit. An excellent assistant to the driver moving in off-road conditions. nine0042

Choose the type of equipment based on personal preferences and the tasks that it must solve.

Set usually consists of 2 pieces, matching 10-15 interchangeable sizes. As a rule, if we are talking about infrequent use and not very difficult driving conditions, the equipment is mounted only on the drive axle. An all-wheel drive car is easier to drive if all 4 wheels are “shod”.

Differences between bracelets and chains

Bracelets are another additional protective accessory that improves vehicle flotation. The design is a belt with a buckle for mounting and an anti-slip base. nine0003

The driver puts on the bracelets by passing them through the wheel disk. The set includes from 2 to 12 pieces. The more they are worn, the smoother the movement will be. Although they are easier to put on than chains, it will take more time to install several bracelets on one wheel than chains.

It is not advisable to install bracelets on a steel disc - over time it will gradually cut them.

So, if the wheel is already loaded or the driver wants to get more traction, bracelets will do. Smoother running and better handling are easier to achieve with chains with diamond weave. nine0003

Product class and materials of manufacture

Different models of anti-skid equipment differ from each other in a number of characteristics, in particular, the material of manufacture, weaving and link size. The scope of application of structures depends on these parameters. For example, for ice it is recommended to choose a model with small links. The large link is designed to move through mud or deep snow.

It is customary to distinguish two classes of equipment:

  1. Soft . The so-called "wheel mesh" is made of plastic, rubber, polyurethane. Its advantage is that it does not greatly increase the diameter of the wheel. Plastic or rubber lugs make it easier to overcome areas covered with loose snow, but provide little to no traction on ice. Since the rubber loses elasticity in cold weather, it is difficult to put on the mesh. The maximum permissible speed is not more than 80 km/h.
  2. Rigid . The material of manufacture is hardened steel or titanium. Resistant to abrasion and impact, but wear out the tire tread faster when driving on a hard surface. Designed to move through mountainous terrain and "deep" off-road. The main condition for use is speed up to 40 km / h. This is due to the inertial increase in the radius of the chain during movement and the risk of damaging the wheel arch.

The life of each product depends on the material and the conditions and intensity of use. For example, soft wheel nets usually wear out within one to two seasons. To extend the life of accessories, you should follow the manufacturer's recommendations for their use. nine0003

Types of weaves

Grip of the wheels with the ground is achieved by means of chain mesh with different types of weaves. The most common drawings are "rhombus" (or "honeycomb") and "ladder".

The first option works well in the case of side skids, increases the car's off-road capability without overloading the transmission and suspension. Full repetition of the shape of the wheel guarantees smooth rotation. Suitable for trucks and other large vehicles.

Ladder pattern is convenient in terms of mounting method and provides good traction potential. It is used for rectilinear movement, with side drifts it is less effective. However, jerks during wheel rotation damage the transmission, suspension and steering components. It is because of the jerks that chains with such weaving are usually mounted on non-steered wheels. nine0003

Specialists pay attention to the following pattern: the more complex the weaving, the better the machine's cross-country ability.

Chain link width

Chain selection also depends on the link width. On some car models, only fine-mesh chains protruding above the tire surface in the range of 15 mm can be installed. It is desirable to mount 9-12 mm on passenger cars, trucks - from 16 mm.

Narrow links perfectly follow the shape of the wheel, although wear faster on a heavy vehicle. Wide ones provide increased cross-country ability of the car, but they wear out the tire treads of a small wheel more strongly. nine0003

Basic model selection criteria

Before buying chains, there are some disadvantages of this type of equipment to consider. If you use it constantly, you should be prepared for increased noise, as well as stress on the suspension, steering, transmission. Also, many of the minuses include a speed limit.

The following should be taken into account even before purchase:

  • intended operating conditions;
  • type of vehicle: passenger car, SUV or SUV; nine0042
  • winter tire size and profile width and height;
  • suitable mounting method: standard, automatic tightening, technology without the use of additional mechanisms.

Please note that this equipment is designed exclusively for difficult road sections and not for continuous driving.

Helpful Hints

Before fitting the chains, it is advisable to remove the caps and check the tire pressure.


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