Driving on Ice and snow can be difficult and traction can be misleading from time to time. Here are a few tips to be more successful and travel safely.
Always observe posted speed and chain control signs.
Tire Chains
Restriction Levels
R-1 chains or snow tires are required. A snow tire has a M+S rating stamped on the side. Many new family radial tires are M+S rated. Check your tires to make sure.
R-2 Chains or 4wd required. Snow tires will not cut it and studded tires do not qualify for R-2 conditions.
R-3 Chains required on 4wd vehicles only. Don’t bother going anywhere on these days because even if you get your car out, you probably can’t go anywhere anyway.
If chains are required and you are stopped by the CHP (California Highway Patrol) the fine will be almost four times what it costs to have them installed professionally on your car.
Get chains before you leave on your trip. Put them on before you leave to make sure they fit. I have done it in the parking lot where I bought them before, in case they need to be exchanged. It is also good practice to know how to take them on and off.
You can usually pay a professional chain installer to put them on when chains are required. They may have some spare parts for repair but don’t rely on them to stock new ones in their trucks.
What wheels do chains go on?
Front wheel drive cars, put your chain on the front wheels.
Rear wheel drive cars, put your chains on your rear wheels.
Four wheel drive cars, put your chains on the front wheels but if severe enough conditions exist, then use chains on all four wheels.
If braking is difficult here are a couple of tricks to try.
Pumping your brakes with LIGHT pressure can help.
Use your emergency brake lightly to slow your rear wheels while steering with the front. Not too hard as the rear of the car can slide.
If you have a 4wd vehicle try driving in 2wd for a braking advantage.
Use your brakes before entering a turn so you can let the car roll it’s tires through the corner.
