Slipping Chains and No Traction when Using Snow Tire Chains on a Ford F-150

Question:

I had to use tire chains in my trip to Bear Lake today. I have an F150 that I assume is rear wheel drive. It is not a 4WD. We had they chains put on by someone who installs chains. When we headed up just the slightest incline, the truck swerved out of control. I couldnt make it up the hill because the tires kept spinning. The chains were spinning with the tires. What did I do wrong? Is this happening because there is no weight in the back?? I took the chains off and made it up the mountain with relatively no problem. But I want to go up there again and want to be prepared.

asked by: Jenny

Expert Reply:

Your truck is a rear wheel drive vehicle and since you made it up without the chains on I do not think it was the weight, or lack of weight, in the back.

There is a speed limitation with chains. Basically you will want to go about 25 miles per hour. Certain chains are not good in ice so depending on the chain type and the nature of the accumulation on the road, that could be the problem. If you were using cables like # PW3027C they are not good in ice at all. Also if the chains are not tight then they can move around and not provide traction.

After moving forward a short distance you will need to make sure the chains are tight. Some chains require some adjusters to be tight. The cables you referenced, # PW3027C, work best with # PW99 adjusters to keep them taught. Also, if the pavement is dry (no ice or snow) chains can actually cause you to loose traction.

To prevent this from happening again I recommend square link chains. I would need to know your tire size to make a more specific recommendation. I have included a link to our tire chains FAQ for you as well.

expert reply by: Michael H