Do I need 2 chains or 4?
In most conditions a single set of tire chains will provide enough traction, however there are significant benefits with using two sets on AWD or 4WD vehicles
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Common Ordering Questions
These are the most common questions asked prior to ordering tire chains.
What does P or LT mean in the tire size?
P means P-Metric. Usually found on cars and light duty trucks or SUVs'. LT means light truck.
Are your chains made in the USA?
Most of our chains are made in China. They are built to the USA standards set by the National Association of Chain Manufactures (NACM).
What does R mean in my tire size?
In a tire size, the "R" stands for "radial."
Are chains and tensioners sold as a pair?
They are sold as a pair. A pair of tire chains includes chains for both the left and right tires on a single axle.
Is there anything I need to know about using chains?
Pre-fit chains prior to actual use! Consult your vehicles owners manual to see if chain can be used on your vehicle.
How fast can I drive with chains?
30 MPH At speeds faster than 30 centrifugal force lifts the chain off the tire and causes it slap the pavement.
Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles
4-wheel drive does not replace the need for tire chains. In extreme conditions tire chains will dramatically enhance the four-wheel drive ability.
When are V-Bar chains recommended?
V-Bar chains are recommended for specific conditions where enhanced traction is necessary like in Ice or extreme snowy slick conditions.
Where do I locate my tire size?
The tire size is located on the tire sidewall of your tire.
Will tire chains damage my alloy rims?
When used properly, tire chains should not directly damage alloy rims.
Do diamond chains require or need an optional tensioner?
No, diamond chains have a rubber tensioner and ratchet integrated into its design.
What is the difference between a ZR tire size and an R tire size?
In both the ZR and R, R means radial. Z is the speed rating of the tire. Z rated tires are high performance tires.
Do I have enough clearance between the tire, struts, or control arms?
Check your your owner’s manual, vehicle manufacture or dealer to confirm adequate clearance.
Which is better 2 or 4 link spacing?
The choice between 2-link and 4-link spacing in tire chains depends on the specific conditions and traction desired. 2-Link will give double the amount of traction than a 4-Link.
Why does my owner's manual say do not use chains?
The information in an owner's manual stating "do not use chains" could mean you do not have clearance. We do not advise against the owner's manual.
What are cams?
Cams assist with the proper tensioning of tire chains. Cam is a half moon shape lock that you twist and lock the chains into place. This does not take the place of a tensioner.
What is a Type S chain?
Class “S” is a minimum clearance requirement set by some vehicle manufactures.
Do off road mud tires use the normal sized chains?
No. Off Road Mud Tires, Super Swamper, and BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO tires deep lugged tires require one size longer in tire chains to make up for extra depth of the tread.
What are Emergency Strap on Chains good for?
Emergency strap tire chains, also known as emergency snow chains or temporary tire chains, are a type of traction device that can be used in snowy or icy conditions.
What brand are your chains?
The brand is TireChain.com
What info do I need to purchase tire chains?
Tire Size: Note down the exact size of your vehicle's tires. This information is typically found on the sidewall of the tire.
For Cars with Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)
ABS only assists the steering and braking. It does not enhance forward traction. Therefore ABS does not replace the need for tire chains.
What do you recommend for plowing?
it's crucial to select tire chains that are specifically designed for heavy-duty and commercial applications. You need a Heavy Duty tire chain.
Why purchase from TireChain.com?
TireChain.com is a small family owned business. We have a wide selection and top quality products.
Are dual chains sold as a pair for the axle?
Yes, dual chains are sold as a pair for the axle. 1 pair will cover 4 tires in the rear.
What is the hardness of your chain?
Rockwell 56 unless specified otherwise. Rockwell hardness refers to a standard measure of the hardness of a material, typically metals.
What is the difference between 2 and 4 link spacing?
A 2-Link chain has a cross chain every other side chain link; blanketing the tire in chain. A 4-Link chain has a cross chain every 4th sidechain link leaving slightly larger gaps in between.
How long does it take to receive the chains after they are shipped?
Depending on your location, Tire chains typically take 3-5 business days to receive.
What is a SAE Class U chain?
Class U vehicles usually have enough clearance to use any chain. SAE Class “U” – Regular (non-reinforced" and lug reinforced passenger tire chains for vehicles with regular
Why do I need a tensioner?
Tire chain tensioners are used to ensure that the tire chains remain securely in place on the tires while driving.
How much clearance do I need for large tractor chains
You typically need around 3" of clearance to safely use chains on a large farm tractor.
Tractor Make Model Recommendations
We would recommend searching https://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/index.php for tractor - make, model, and tire size with "tire chains" in the search.
Load range E and deep lug
Mud, Off road, and Load range E tires could come up short if you select a chain size base on an all season tire (OEM).
differences between chain types
There are several types of tire chains available, each with its own design and characteristics. Please click for more information.
Do you ship to Canada?
We now offer discounted UPS Rates to Canada. Add the item you are interested in to the cart, enter your postal code and country.
Are your transactions with credit cards secure?
Yes. We adhere to strict PCI Compliance standards. Compliance with the PCI DSS means that our systems are secure.
Can you ship outside continental USA?
Yes. APO, Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico orders are shipped USPS Priority Mail.
What are your hours?
Our hours seasonal. In season, they 9 AM EST to 5 PM EST. Monday through Friday.
Do you backorder out of stock items?
No. We do not back order. If an item is out of stock, it will not be shipped unless a new order is placed when the item(s) are back in stock.
Do you accept Purchase Orders?
We accept purchase orders from fire companies, governments, municipalities, and large corporations.
Do you have a privacy statement?
Please click for our Online Privacy Policy.
How do I get a tax refund?
Due sales tax laws, sales tax cannot be refunded once an order is placed. If you are tax exempt, you will need to email your tax exempt form and register as a
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