Spikes Spider Size Chart? The 127 Detailed Answer

Device for impeding the movement of wheeled vehicles

A spike strip (spike belt, traffic spikes, tire shredder, stinger, stopsticks, stinger, or formerly known as a tire deflating device) is a device or casualty weapon used to impede or stop the movement of wheeled vehicles by piercing their tires. Generally, the strip consists of a collection of 35 to 75 millimeters (1 + 1⁄2 to 3 in) long metal barbs, teeth, or spikes pointing upwards. The spikes are designed to puncture and flatten tires when a vehicle drives over them; They may be portable as a police weapon, or they may be heavily attached to the ground, such as those found at security checkpoint entrances at certain facilities. (However, these particular models retract and do not deal damage if a vehicle drives over them from the correct direction.) They may also be detachable, with new spikes attached to the strip after use. The spikes can be hollow or solid; Hollows are designed to detach and become embedded in the tires, allowing air to escape evenly to reduce the risk of the rider losing control and colliding.[1] They are historically a development of the caltrop, with anti-cavalry and anti-personnel versions being used as early as 331 BC. by Darius III. used against Alexander the Great at the Battle of Gaugamela in Persia.

In 2011 alone, five officers were killed using spiked strips in the United States. They were hit by the fleeing vehicle. Dallas, Texas police are among those banned from use in response to threats.[2]

Remotely deployable spiked strips were invented to reduce the danger to police officers using them.[3]

Private possession of spiked strips was banned in New South Wales, Australia, in 2003 after a strip cheaply constructed of spiked steel tubing was used against a police vehicle. John Watkins, a Member of the New South Wales Legislature, said they would be placed on the New South Wales Prohibited Weapons List.[4]

Following the rise in terrorist vehicle attacks, in which a vehicle is driven into pedestrians at high speed, a steel-tipped net has been developed that can be deployed by two people in less than a minute and is reportedly capable of stopping a vehicle of up to 17 tons more preemptively Used at public events in the UK under the name “Talon”. It has steel spikes to puncture tires and tangles around the front wheels, stopping the vehicle. It is designed to reduce crowd risk by allowing the vehicle to skid in a straight line without swerving unpredictably. It was first deployed to protect a parade on September 11, 2017.[5]

See also[edit]

Always try on your necklaces when you receive them

Tires (of the same size) can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, especially mud and snow tires or off-road tread tires, therefore no online snow chain dealer can specify the correct chain size with 100% reliability. If you think you have received the wrong size, simply give us a call so we can arrange an exchange for a better fitting set. Please remember to try them on in clean/dry conditions and not ride on the tracks if you decide to swap them out.

What are the best snow chains for my vehicle?

We offer a comprehensive range of snow chains to suit all vehicles – the key considerations are:

1. Chain size/type (suitable for your tire dimensions and vehicle weight/power);

2. Spacing – on the back of the wheel (see below for more);

3. Clearance – between the tread/surface of the tire and the wheel arch (and room to put your hands in the wheel arch).

Perfect for getting you out of trouble at home and abroad, our budget range ensures you meet all legal requirements when driving in Europe and on mountain roads.

Our premium range of snow chains are made from high strength steel so are more durable and come with a 5 year guarantee. They also offer variations in ease of attachment and removal, as well as catering to vehicles with limited clearances.

We also sell snow socks; a textile sock that wraps around the wheel to provide more grip in snowy conditions. They are easy to apply and a great solution for local use.

Which snow chains are the easiest to fit?

Today, most snow chains are easy to fit, although we strongly recommend practicing fitting in the dry before confronting roadside fitting in the snow.

Some snow chains are specifically designed to be extremely easy to fit, and generally the chains become easier to fit and/or remove as you move through the ranges.

Both our budget chains and some high strength steel chains (our Polar range, Zip Transport, CK7 range and XD range) can be fitted without moving the vehicle but require manual tensioning. Manual tensioning means fitting the chains, driving forward about 50m (minimum 10m) and then getting out to tension the chain again. This isn’t difficult – as the wheel turns, the chain lays on the wheel and the excess chain has to be pulled through the ratchet, but some people prefer not to get out of the vehicle. The self-tensioning chains (Zip Ultra, CG9, CS9, XG12, Easy Fit range and the K-Summit ranges) tighten onto the wheel as you spin, so you don’t have to come out and tighten the chain after a few meters.

Which snow chains are the easiest to remove?

All snow chains are relatively easy to remove, but the Easy-Fit and CS9 ranges are particularly easy, with CS9 chains having patented ‘rip-line’ removal.

How much clearance is required for snow chains?

Clearance describes the distance between the wheel and obstacles such as the body, brake systems or suspension of a vehicle.

A standard 9mm car chain would require about 15mm of clearance between the inside edge of the tire and any obstacles (to allow chain movement). scope.

How many snow chains do I need?

Snow chains are sold in pairs and must be fitted to the drive wheels. This is generally considered sufficient and meets legal requirements on mainland Europe and mountain roads. However, on some vehicles it is recommended to use four snow chains or chains and socks (two sets) for extra traction – see below:

What are the best snow chains for a rear wheel drive vehicle like BMW or Mercedes?

Although a single set of chains would meet the legal requirements on snow covered roads in mainland Europe, handling a rear wheel drive vehicle on snow and ice can be difficult. The chains must be attached to the rear wheels, which means that the steering wheels do not have traction assistance. This can be exacerbated when a vehicle is heavily loaded in the trunk, so it may be advisable to fit a second set of chains (if space permits) or a set of snow socks on the front wheels to improve handling.

How many snow chains do I need on a 4×4?

Snow chains are only required by law for one axle when driving in the mountains. However, when driving a 4 x 4, some drivers prefer to use 4 chains (two sets). Although a single set of chains provides enough traction in most conditions, there are significant benefits to using two sets. It is important to consult your vehicle handbook as some manufacturers recommend fitting two pairs.

What wheels do you put chains on on a 4×4?

A four wheel drive vehicle will generally have snow chains fitted to the front wheels but this can vary so please consult the manufacturer’s handbook for advice. If the space between the wheel and the front suspension or body of the vehicle is limited, the snow chains may need to be fitted at the rear or a special chain may need to be used. There are tracks specifically designed for vehicles with reduced ground clearance, like our XG-12 Pro or K-Summits. Whether the XG12 Pro is suitable or whether a K-Summit is required depends on the space available. A K-Summit is designed for vehicles that have no clearance because they are attached to the wheel studs and no part of the chain sits on the inside tire wall.

How do I check the release of a vehicle? (Or what gauge of chain can my car take?)

Some vehicles have very little space between the wheel and the vehicle’s suspension or other obstacles, which means that the chains can come into contact with the bodywork, braking systems or suspension with serious consequences. You can check if your vehicle has a clearance issue by placing your hand inside the wheel arch on top of the tire and feeling around the tire for nearby obstacles, particularly on the rear/inner wall of the tire. From 9 o’clock to 3 o’clock, move your hand along the back/inside of the wheel to check the distance between the wheel and obstacles. Remember that a chain sits over the tire’s rubber, so any obstacle approaching on one side of the tire could pose a problem. You should also consider the proximity of the wheel arches when turning the steering if you are mounting on the front wheels. Usually the pinch point is at 3 or 9 o’clock on the back of the wheel when the steering is locked. (Check by locking the steering and placing your hand in the pinch point to assess the proximity of the arch to the tire, and do the same for the opposite lock.)

My vehicle has limited approval – can I still use snow chains?

Our standard car snow chains have an overhang of 9mm, so there needs to be a clearance of around 15mm between the inside edge of the tire and any obstacles (to allow chain movement). For 16mm chains you need at least 21mm clearance. If it’s not possible to fit a standard snow chain, we have a number of ways to help. The Thule K-Summit snow chain requires no clearance around the back of the wheel as it attaches to the wheel nut on the outside of the wheel, making it suitable for the most affected vehicles. We also have a 7mm chain specifically designed for cars with insufficient clearance for a 9mm chain. A snow sock is another solution; a textile cover that wraps around the wheel to provide improved grip on snow-covered roads. Snow bags don’t have as good traction as snow chains and you have to move the vehicle to attach them, but they’re intuitive, light/small, and won’t damage the vehicle. The legality of snow socks on mountain roads is a gray area – some areas accept them and others don’t. In practice, conditions dictate who is allowed to pass, so in bad weather you could be turned back with a sock when you were allowed to pass with a chain.

Many 4×4/SUV/Vans and mid-size vehicles also have clearance issues and again the Thule K-Summit offers a very comprehensive solution for vehicles with really poor clearance. The Thule XG12-Pro snow chain can be used on some of these vehicles as it only protrudes 12mm over the wheel (compared to the standard 4×4/van/camper snow chain protrusion of 16mm). And the easy-fit SUV has an even smaller overhang at 10mm, allowing it to be fitted to vehicles where even the XG-12 Pro is a little too chunky.

To fit a regular snow chain you also need enough space between the wheel and the arch to put your hands in the arch at the top of the wheel and ideally be able to reach an inch on the other side of the tire (like It needs to be slid down the first link at the back, away from the tire tread). If this is not possible, the best (sometimes only) solution is the type of chain that attaches to the lug nuts, like the K-Summits.

How many snow chains do I need?

Snow chains are sold in pairs and must be fitted to the drive wheels. This is generally considered sufficient and meets legal requirements on mainland Europe and mountain roads. Some drivers prefer to use four snow chains (two sets) for extra traction. This would give more control, especially when driving long distances in areas where snow chains are required, but isn’t strictly necessary – some vehicles handle better than others in cold conditions, so it’s difficult to generalize. On a 4WD vehicle they will generally be fitted to the front wheels (please consult the manufacturer’s manual for advice, many are ‘rear fit’). If clearance in the front is limited, you will either need to buy a more expensive chain in the front, or they will need to be fitted to the rear wheels. If you are unsure, call/email us.

Where and when should I carry snow chains?

In mainland Europe, a driver is responsible for equipping their vehicle for all weather conditions. A driver can be fined if he/she does not use snow chains when they are required, thereby obstructing the normal flow of traffic or causing an accident.

Snow chains are required by law on all European mountain roads. Roadside checks will be carried out and drivers may be fined if they do not have a set in their vehicle. Snow socks do not meet the required standard in European ski areas.

How fast can I drive with snow chains?

We always recommend driving carefully in snowy conditions, even when using snow chains. The recommended maximum speed is 30 km/h.

Careful driving is essential when using snow chains. Excessive acceleration and hard braking put too much pressure on the snow chains and can cause them to break.

What accessories do I legally need to have in my car when driving on the continent?

Regulations regarding accessories are subject to change and we encourage you to check the AA website for the most up-to-date information. It is currently compulsory in most parts of continental Europe to have a GB sticker, warning triangle, safety vest, beam deflectors and spare lamp kit and breathalyzer for France.

Regulations on the use of safety vests vary from country to country, with some countries requiring every passenger exiting the vehicle to wear a safety vest. We recommend all passengers to wear a reflective vest.

Are snow chains legal?

Snow chains are legal to use in the UK as long as they are not used in a way that will damage the road surface. This means snow chains can only be used on snow-covered roads and must be removed when driving on a paved surface. The use of snow chains is legal in most parts of Europe and compulsory in many areas. Local signs indicate when they are required by law and this includes all mountain roads/ski areas. Anyone who causes a traffic jam or accident outside of these mandatory areas because they are not equipped for the weather conditions must be fined.

Can I use snow chains on asphalt?

Snow chains are designed for use on snow and ice. Driving on asphalt is not recommended as it wears down the chains very quickly and increases the likelihood of them breaking. Snow chains can also be used in muddy conditions – very useful for RVs. We also sell snow chains to the Middle East for use in sandy conditions!

What about snow socks?

Snow socks are an alternative to snow chains, which are usually recommended when a car is not snow chain approved. If you are unsure which to choose, you may find useful information in our snow chains vs snow socks article. Whether socks in European ski resorts meet the required legal standard remains a gray area.

How easy are snow chains to fit?

Once you get the hang of it, you should be able to fit any snow chain in a matter of minutes. We recommend that you try on the snow chains before you go on holiday. We have also produced snow chain fitting videos available on the fitting page so you can see how it’s done.

Snow chain maintenance – what should I do after use?

After using snow chains, we recommend washing them in warm soapy water as soon as possible, ideally with a stiff brush to remove salt residue and dirt (jet washing is also possible at this stage). Finally, after hanging the chains out to dry, you should spray them with WD40 and then hang them out to dry again. The WD40 will help stop/reduce corrosion, especially with regards to further storage. The longer chains sit in a wet (or worse, salty and wet) container, the faster they will rust and deteriorate.

What should I avoid when using snow chains?

The most common problems encountered are: (1) wheel spin or wheel lockup under braking – this is the most common way people break chains; (2) Improper assembly, particularly lack of centering of the chains such that the inner or outer bands are overridden (or any of the working components such as springs, ratchets or links). From the chains you can see that the chain sections that are to be driven on are built more robustly than the inner and outer belts or the working parts that are supposed to be in contact with the tire sidewall off the road. (3) Hitting curbs or potholes can also break chains, but as this is not normally intended by the driver it is only mentioned here as something to be avoided whenever possible. (4) Driving on open asphalt (without significant snow or ice cover) should also be avoided.

Are there limits to what can be achieved with chains – will they work on all grades and in all conditions?

Chains massively improve traction on snow, ice, mud and even sand, but they don’t allow you to defy physics. Where you can and cannot drive depends largely on the vehicle’s capabilities, the load, the driver’s skills and countless other factors. So don’t assume you’re invincible with chains on – some slopes are impassable for some vehicles even with chains on. In such a case, do not turn the wheels to get up the slope as there is a high chance of snapping your chains and potentially damaging your vehicle.

Do I need snow chains when I’m out and about in the Alps?

In general, snow chains are compulsory in the European Alps from November 1st to April 1st. Spot checks will be carried out and in the event of heavy snowfall, vehicles without chains will be denied access to the mountainside. Each country has slight variations in regulations as shown below:

Andorra

Snow chains – MANDATORY (should be worn and used in accordance with local signage or road conditions. Reduced speed limits may apply).

Austria

Snow chains are MANDATORY between November 1st and April 15th (should be carried and used as directed by local signs or road conditions. Reduced speed limits may apply).

France

Snow chains – MANDATORY, must be fitted to vehicles using snow-covered roads. (Should be carried and used in accordance with local signs or road conditions. Reduced speed limits may apply).

Germany

Snow chains – MANDATORY (should be worn and used in accordance with local signage or road conditions. Reduced speed limits may apply).

Vehicles with incorrect equipment that obstruct the flow of traffic must be fined

Italy

Snow chains – MANDATORY – Between October and April 15 or at other times if conditions require

Switzerland

Vehicles that are not equipped to drive through snow and ice and obstruct the flow of traffic will be fined.

Snow chains – MANDATORY (should be worn and used in accordance with local signage or road conditions. Reduced speed limits may apply).

Few feelings compare to that panicky moment when your vehicle loses traction on an icy, snow-covered road. You can feel the lateral drift starting to affect the car. You feel less and less control over the jerky steering wheel. You can feel the car fighting against it. You do your best to balance it, you may make the right decisions, you may make the wrong ones. Your safety is in the air for this moment. And to think that it could be solved by simply attaching snow chains.

Reduced driving risk in winter

Most who know that moment also know the overwhelming sense of relief when it’s over when you regain control of your vehicle. You instinctively slow down, even without thinking about it. You become hyper-alert. Maybe you turn on your lights even when it’s daytime and the sun is shining. Whatever contributes to your safety is now of paramount importance.

Some don’t know that feeling of relief because they never regained control. You ended up in an accident, maybe temporarily stranded in a snow storm, maybe injured or worse. The most important way to reduce this risk is to drive safely and carefully in bad conditions. It is also important to keep your car in good condition and well maintained. The third element of safe winter driving is your tyres. Depending on the state law you have to take into account: snow tires, studded tires and the most effective of all – the use of snow chains.

What are tire chains?

Tire chains are chains that you attach around your tires. They are designed to use your car’s weight to dig into snow and ice while driving. There is a learning curve to putting on the chains for the first time, but once you master the process it becomes very easy.

To visualize how they work, imagine gardening. You pull a smooth-leaf weed, but you lose your footing. The grass slips right out of your hands. Now imagine pulling the same weeds with rough gardening gloves. This texture makes it much easier to get the grass.

Alternatively, imagine catching a soccer ball. Try it barehanded and a hard pass could slip through your fingers. Use textured wide receiver gloves and the ball almost stops in your hands because you have so much more grip.

Using tire chains gives you grip. You won’t be prone to slipping or slipping on the road with them.

tire chain law

Tire chain laws vary from state to state. If you travel from one state to the next with snow chains, you know the laws in both states. Certain freeways may also use more precise tire chain laws, but that’s rare. Just as tire chains dig into ice and snow, they can also dig into and damage roads. A layer of ice and snow protects the road, but once that layer is gone you dig into the road itself. This can also damage your tires.

North Carolina tire chain law permits their use “on any vehicle where required for safety reasons due to snow, ice, or other conditions likely to cause a vehicle to slide or skid.” Generally this means when snow or ice conditions make driving dangerous as you risk losing control. If you’re confused, ask a tire chain expert about where to buy them and when to use them.

Tire chain laws in North Carolina follow common sense. The great thing about using snow chains is that you can keep them in your vehicle throughout the winter and stop to fit them anywhere when needed.

If you have to pull over to the curb to fit tire chains, it’s good to have a safety vest so others can see you in poor visibility. It is generally recommended to drive to a safer area if possible.

Driving with snow chains

All-wheel drive vehicles should use snow chains on all four tires. You must use tire chains for these wheels on the drive axle of 2WD vehicles, but it is much safer and easier to control if you have chains on all four tires. If you only use them on the two drive axle tires you will oversteer on front wheel drive vehicles and understeer on rear wheel drive vehicles. Despite this, it is very difficult to compensate, which is why snow chains are almost always recommended on all four tires.

Keep your driving under 30 mph when using snow chains. They are there to give you more confidence in bad conditions. They don’t mean you can ignore everything else you should do as a driver in inclement weather. They don’t make your vehicle perform as it would without snow and ice on the road. Driving with snow chains above 30 mph is dangerous.

Always put your questions to the snow chain experts where you buy them. Don’t feel embarrassed or shy. Lots of people ask, and the better informed you are, the safer you will be. They can give you excellent advice on choosing snow chains and driving your particular vehicle with snow chains in winter. For more information on snow chains and how to use them, contact Retro Lube Oil Change in Asheville.

Losing traction in the snow is nobody’s idea of ​​a good time. Even in areas not known for terrible snowstorms, winter can bring frigid and dangerous road conditions that drivers need to be prepared for. Adding car tire chains can be a viable solution to getting you where you need to go when the roads aren’t your friend — but they can also be annoying.

Knowing when to chain can help you get out of a slippery situation, but you need to know what you’re doing first.

Technically speaking

Different laws regulate the use of chains in different states. Before you invest in a shiny new pair, find out if chains are illegal, legal, or even mandatory in some cases. In general, a chain “requirement” means that you must have it in your vehicle if you want to pass certain checkpoints that pop up during inclement weather. Places where chains are allowed usually come with a disclaimer restricting their use. So make sure you know the law and obey it.

The other important factor is whether your vehicle is suitable for tracks. You can find chains for most tire sizes, but there must be enough room to fit them without damaging the body, chassis, or brakes. Consult your owner’s manual for specifications and tolerances.

Be prepared

Since the tracks will likely need to be put on and taken off at least once per ride, and operating conditions are typically cold, muddy and snowy, it is best to practice installation first, preferably while the weather is still nice. Without driving anywhere, slip them on and off a few times to get the hang of it so that when you eventually need them you don’t have to fiddle around trying to figure out how to get them with the freeze finger . If you wear chains, also pack a safety vest. There’s a good chance you’ll have to pull to the curb at some point to adjust or remove them, and when it’s snowing visibility is poor.

Right conditions

Snow chains for cars should only be used when there is a layer of snow or ice on the road. Using chains on bare pavement can cause significant damage to both your tires and the road itself. If you turn onto a road that is clearly plowed and salted, stop and remove the chains.

It always pays to be careful when riding in icy conditions, but chains require a whole new level of attention and care. When on, the car should not be driven faster than 30 mph and you must be careful of curbs when parking. On two-wheel drive vehicles, chains must be attached to the drive axle wheels, but ideally you can get them on all four. When installed only at the front there is a tendency to oversteer and when installed only at the rear there is a tendency to understeer. Four-wheel drive vehicles should have chains attached to all tires.

Although they can be cumbersome, snow chains make a real difference in winter weather when you need to go somewhere without Mother Nature’s permission, but only when used safely and effectively. Otherwise you will just spin your wheels.

View all steering and suspension parts available on NAPA Online, or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on automotive tire chains, speak to a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.

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