Tire Chain Classification and Use Definition of SAE classification

SAE class S:
Regular, non-reinforced passenger tire chains and cables for vehicles with restricted wheel well clearances.

SAE class U:
Regular, non-reinforced and lug-reinforced passenger tire chains for vehicles with regular, non-restricted wheel well clearances.

SAE class W:
Passenger tire chains that use light truck components, as well as some light truck chains.

Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) & Four Wheel Drive

Anti-Lock Braking systems are not an alternative to traction devices. ABS assists in maintaining control and managing the vehicle’s available traction more efficiently than a conventional braking system. When tire chains are installed, stopping traction for the ABS system is increased.

Although four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles have greater traction ability than two wheel drive systems, they do not have any advantages in stopping under winter driving conditions. It is recommended that all tires be equipped with tire chains on these vehicles.

Which Tires to Chain Up

Tire chains should be installed on the vehicle’s drive tires. On vehicles with front-wheel drive, this would be the two front tires and on vehicles with rear-wheel drive the two rear tires should be chained. If your vehicle has four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and you intend on chaining up only two of the tires, refer to your owner’s manual for advice on which axle to chain up. To retain the best performance and handling from a four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle, install traction devices on all four tires.

Under normal driving conditions, a vehicle has about the same amount of traction at each wheel, creating a feeling of ‘normal’ control during braking, acceleration and cornering. Under snow and ice conditions, this balance is disrupted. If tire chains are installed on only the front tires, the rear of the vehicle can swing during braking and driving. If snow chains are installed on the rear tires only, the steering ability of the vehicle is limited. To get this balance back, the vehicle should be completely equipped with tire chains. Remember that tire chains are sold in pairs. Therefore, if you intend to install chains on all four tires, you must purchase two pair.