As technology continues to advance, automatic tire chains have emerged as a game-changer in the tire chain market. These innovative systems eliminate the hassle of manually attaching chains in challenging winter or wet conditions, saving drivers valuable time and effort.
Designed for use on a variety of vehicles, including pickup trucks, RVs, mobile homes, trucks, and buses, automatic tire chains provide the traction equivalent to a single set of conventional snow chains with the simple flip of a switch. This eliminates the need to stop and exit the vehicle in inclement weather.
The installation process involves mounting an electric switch on the dashboard, which supplies 12 volts to an air solenoid located on the vehicle’s frame rail. Compressed air, sourced from either the vehicle’s existing onboard air system or a dedicated 12-volt compressor kit, powers the system. When the dashboard switch is activated, the solenoid opens, allowing compressed air to enter the air cylinder. This action lowers the chain wheel, bringing it into contact with the inside of the tire.
The friction generated between the tire and the rubber-covered chain wheel causes the chain wheel to rotate. This rotation creates centrifugal force, propelling the chains outward in front of the tire. The chains are strategically spaced at 60-degree intervals in six lengths on the chain wheel. This configuration ensures that at least two chains are always positioned between the tire and the road surface, providing continuous traction during acceleration and deceleration, both in forward and reverse.
Deactivating the dashboard switch causes the solenoid to exhaust the air, retracting the chain wheels back to their resting position. Automatic tire chains offer a compelling solution for individuals seeking the benefits of tire chains without the inconvenience of manual installation, particularly in adverse weather conditions.