How to Install Tire Chains on Your RV or Overlanding Vehicle

As the winter months roll in, only the most dedicated outdoor enthusiasts will be venturing out into the cold! Luckily, that’s you! So, preparing for any eventuality is essential if you plan to take your RV or Overlanding Vehicle out into the snow. That means you’ll want to ensure you’re familiar with tire chains, their installation process, required maintenance, and exactly what conditioner warrants them. This information is especially important for those who come from warmer climates and aren’t used to dealing with icy roads or other terrain. With that being said, here’s our RV and Overlanding guide to tire chains: may this information lead you to many new adventures! 

When to Install Tire Chains for Off-Road Use 

Tire chains are crucial when navigating off-road terrains in wintry conditions or challenging landscapes. Determining the appropriate time to install tire chains depends on various factors, including weather conditions, terrain type, and your vehicle's traction capability. 

• Weather Conditions: If you're traveling in areas with snow, ice, or mud, installing tire chains becomes necessary for added traction and grip. Chains significantly enhance traction on slippery surfaces, reducing the risk of skidding or getting stuck. 

• Terrain Type: Off-road environments, especially those with steep inclines, loose gravel, or muddy tracks, often demand the use of tire chains. These chains provide enhanced traction and control, enabling vehicles to navigate challenging landscapes more safely. 
   
• Vehicle's Traction Capability: Even high-performance 4WD or AWD vehicles can benefit from tire chains in extreme conditions. Installing chains boosts the vehicle's grip, allowing it to traverse through rugged terrains more effectively.  

How to Install Tire Chains on RV or Overlanding Vehicle 

Installing tire chains on an RV is a crucial skill to master, especially when venturing into challenging off-road environments. Follow these steps for a smooth and effective installation process: 

• Lay Out the Chains: Untangle the chains and lay them flat on the ground. Ensure the hooks face upward to avoid rubbing against the tire sidewall when installed. 
   
• Position the Chains: Drape the chains evenly over the tires, ensuring they cover the tread surface completely. Center the chains as best as possible on each tire. 
   
• Secure the Chains: Connect the chains on the backside of the tire by attaching the hooks to the side chain. For optimal tension, connect the front side using a similar number of links as the back connection. 
  
  
• Adjust the Tension: Use rubber adjusters or automatic tensioning mechanisms to maintain proper tension on the chains. This step is crucial for ensuring a snug fit without being overly tight. 
   
• Test the Chains: Drive the vehicle a short distance forward to check if the chains are centered and properly tensioned. Adjust if necessary to ensure they remain secure. 

Proper installation of tire chains is essential for safety and effective traction in challenging conditions. Familiarize yourself with your vehicle's specifications and practice installing chains beforehand to ensure a smooth installation process when needed. 

Best Types of Off-Road-Capable Tire Chains 

Selecting the right tire chains for off-road use is essential for superior traction and performance. Here are several types of tire chains suitable for off-road conditions: 

• V-Bar Chains: Featuring steel bars with V-shaped hardened steel studs welded, V-Bar chains provide exceptional traction on icy or muddy off-road surfaces. The V-shaped studs dig into the ground, offering a superior grip. 
   
• Mud Chains: Specifically designed with larger and more aggressive patterns, mud chains effectively tackle muddy conditions. Their wider and deeper lugs or chains help evacuate mud, providing enhanced traction. 

• Studded Chains: Equipped with metal studs protruding from the chain links, studded chains offer excellent grip on ice, packed snow, or slippery surfaces. They are suitable for extreme off-road winter conditions. 
   
• Diamond Pattern Chains: Featuring a unique pattern of diagonal cross chains that form a diamond shape, these chains provide increased traction on various off-road surfaces, including snow, ice, and gravel. 
   
• Reinforced Chains: Built to withstand the rigors of off-road driving, reinforced or heavy-duty chains feature extra thick and durable chain links. They often include additional features like reinforcement bars or square link patterns for increased strength. 

When choosing off-road-capable tire chains, consider factors like your vehicle's specifications, the terrain you'll navigate, and the prevailing weather conditions. Select chains that are compatible with your tire size and follow manufacturer recommendations for installation and usage to ensure optimal performance and safety. 

Installing tire chains on RVs or overlanding vehicles significantly enhances traction and maneuverability, ensuring safer navigation through challenging terrains and adverse weather conditions. By adhering to manufacturer instructions and choosing the right tire chains suited for off-road adventures, drivers can maximize their vehicle's capabilities and maintain control on various surfaces. 
 

And don’t forget, while you’re preparing your RV or Overlanding Vehicle for the winter, you’ll also want to check out Renlicon’s incredible lineup of outdoor products, including the Renlicon Portable Fire Pit. This handy campfire companion is made with real US steel and lays flat for easy storage. Don’t wrestle with the cold this season! Stay warm wherever your journey takes you with the Renlicon Portable Fire Pit.