jeffm@tekecs.UUCP (Jeff McMeekin) (12/08/83)
I saw a recommendation for plastic chains and felt an immediate need for public outcry. Plastic chains are disposable chains. Use them once, and throw them away. I bought a set once and was flabbergasted at their rate of degeneration. I used them on a road that was a mixture of old packed snow and slush. By the end of the trip they were so torn up, I threw them away. Since then every time I've taken a trip into snow country I've seen one or two of those sets lying on the road where they've fallen off someone's wheel. I could understand their place in society as emergency chains if they cost $5. But they cost considerably more than that. And on another topic, do front wheel drive car owners know their cars are front wheel drive? Do front wheel drive car owners know they should put chains on their front wheels? Recent experience on Interstate 5 over the pass on the Oregon/California border would lead me to believe there is quite a lot of confusion on the topic.
jason@hp-pcd.UUCP (Jason Su) (12/14/83)
#R:tekecs:-332000:hp-pcd:2400023:000:645 hp-pcd!jason Dec 13 09:37:00 1983 I carry both plastic and steel chains. It is my experience that plastic chains are much easier to put on. One can travel slightly faster with plastic chains with a smoother ride. If those plastic chains hit the pavement, however, it's all over. Plastic chains are Much easier on your fender if they break (believe me!). See J.C. Whitney for "plastic chains" a.k.a. Snowtreds (tm). I purchased mine for ~$15. Steel outperforms plastic chains in traction. Make sure your chains fit your current tires. Carry a foldup camping shovel. Carry an old blanket to lie on when installing the chains. -Jay hplabs!hp-pcd!jason