Where to buy chains?

[TruckerChris]

Winter is coming and I need to get some chains for the truck and a set for the trailer. The company supplies cables for the trailer but I would feel a lot better using chains. Did you guys just buy the normal quality chains from a truckstop? I've seen some that have spikes for better traction... Are they worth it? Also, what do you think I should purchase, a chain rack or a box that bolts to the frame?

Chris

[tracer]

Winter is coming and I need to get some chains for the truck and a set for the trailer. The company supplies cables for the trailer but I would feel a lot better using chains. Did you guys just buy the normal quality chains from a truckstop? I've seen some that have spikes for better traction... Are they worth it? Also, what do you think I should purchase, a chain rack or a box that bolts to the frame?

Chris

I used chains once west of Denver on I-70 a couple of years ago. It took me 10 hours and a few grey hairs to do 200 miles. Since then I never drive in weather conditions that require chains. You're almost always better off parking the truck.

When I've saved some money, I'm going to get one of those automatic chaining systems: one push of a button on the dashboard and you have traction! I think it costs around 2 grand though :shock:

[TruckerChris]

Winter is coming and I need to get some chains for the truck and a set for the trailer. The company supplies cables for the trailer but I would feel a lot better using chains. Did you guys just buy the normal quality chains from a truckstop? I've seen some that have spikes for better traction... Are they worth it? Also, what do you think I should purchase, a chain rack or a box that bolts to the frame?

Chris

I used chains once west of Denver on I-70 a couple of years ago. It took me 10 hours and a few grey hairs to do 200 miles. Since then I never drive in weather conditions that require chains. You're almost always better off parking the truck.

When I've saved some money, I'm going to get one of those automatic chaining systems: one push of a button on the dashboard and you have traction! I think it costs around 2 grand though :shock:

I've chained a few times and it's not that bad besides getting cold hands and feet but I'll drive as long as the road is open. I looked into getting those auto chains but since I don't own a trailer, I would still have to get out and chain the trailer... I would spend the money for sure if I had my own trailer.

[BigDiesel]

What are these things that you call " chains " ???

[Jumbo]

Don't buy at truckstop. Get from a dealer. And a chain rack keeeps them more organized and easier to put on

[Walking Eagle]

Happiness is rusty chains hanging on the side of the truck !!!!
After nearly 43 years of running between Alaska and all over the lower 48 I don't do chains anymore, if the road is that bad PARK IT. I carry "countable" chains (Like Ca. and Co. want to see them}. Two pair are supposed to be 24.5 I sprayed he ends red so can say to the troop these to are the drivers. two more are singles ( I think I had them for my P/U and I have a couple more I found along side the road. Seems as long as they can count the number you are supposed to have that is cool.
JUST NEVER PUT THEM ON

[no_worries]

Yep, mine are all still in the bags...makes 'em easier to count that way

[Rev.Vassago]

If you're looking for chains, I'd suggest talking to these people.

[tweety bird]

We chained up a few times over the years and all we managed to accomplish was tearing the heck up out of our chains. I agree- if the road is that bad, it's time to park for a while.

I've also found that California will put chain law up on Truckee and when they lift it, you go over and there's like 2 feet of ice and the rest is just wet pavement. I'm sure at some point there was ice and snow on the road, but not by the time they lift it.

[TruckerChris]

It seems that when California and oregon put up the chain law, it is to have the trucks break up all the ice so the plows don't have to work so hard...


I haven't run east of colorado in the winter time yet and it's going to take some getting used to since I hear they don't allow chains? That's a bit weird for me on the westcoast. The biggest reason I want them is when I'm heading home west on 80 in reno when the chain law is in effect. I will NOT sit at the petro and wait it out... I only live over the mountain and I want to be home, not stuck in my truck!

Chris

[GMAN]

A friend of mine lives in Reno. He used to run back and forth from Reno to Sacramento several times a week. In the winter he would sometimes have to chain up both ways. He finally got tired of it and found a different route. I think he started running more SLC.

[HWD]

If you're looking for chains, I'd suggest talking to these people.

Sweet but "Junk" and "Rooster" rock harder.

[HWD]

When I've saved some money, I'm going to get one of those automatic chaining systems: one push of a button on the dashboard and you have traction! I think it costs around 2 grand though :shock:

Are those locking diffs worth the extra money? How often do you use them? Do they really "grab"? Both rear axles or just one? If the chain law is in effect do locking diffs exempt you from chaining?

[NotSteve]

When I've saved some money, I'm going to get one of those automatic chaining systems: one push of a button on the dashboard and you have traction! I think it costs around 2 grand though :shock:

Are those locking diffs worth the extra money? How often do you use them? Do they really "grab"? Both rear axles or just one? If the chain law is in effect do locking diffs exempt you from chaining?

No, locking diffs do not exempt you.

I say buy chains anywhere you can because they wear out and break.

Get the ones with cams on them so they are loose when you put them on then you turn the cam to tighten them up. Buy some rubber bungees just the right length to tighten them up also. I would put at least 3 on each wheel.

Also, put the chains on at home for practice and make sure they fit. If you have a ton of extra links left over, cut them off with a hacksaw.

[GMAN]

You may check with some of the truck dealers or truck parts stores. They could probably order them if they don't have them in stock.

[Orangetxguy]

Winter is coming and I need to get some chains for the truck and a set for the trailer. The company supplies cables for the trailer but I would feel a lot better using chains. Did you guys just buy the normal quality chains from a truckstop? I've seen some that have spikes for better traction... Are they worth it? Also, what do you think I should purchase, a chain rack or a box that bolts to the frame?

Chris

Best $$$wise...Utility Trailer in Kent WA. They have chain racks there too. Truck Inn in Fernley NV used to have decent prices.