For the L/O, Chains vs Cables

Discussion in 'Swift' started by blsqueak, Aug 28, 2011.

  1. blsqueak

    blsqueak Road Train Member

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    Well it is that time of the year, and have some questions. I really do not want to go out and purchase new chains, so wondering, if can get some used ones at one of the terminals. From as much as I remember, 2 sets of doubles and 2 singles are all that is needed, or 6 singles. For as little as I head out that way, can not see spending about $600 for something that I will not be using, just to carry around the extra weight.

    I think that cables are still legal. Anyone have some input here.

    Everyone be safe out there.
     
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  3. SteveH85396

    SteveH85396 Road Train Member

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    So I'm guessing you just answered one of my many questions (concerning a L/O). It's the L/O expense to purchase chains?? Can you buy them from Swift and have the $$$ taken out of your maintaince account?

    If you cannot buy them from Swift...check this out: http://www.tirechain.com/TRUCK-SUV-CHAINS.HTM
     
  4. MysticHZ

    MysticHZ Road Train Member

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    Uh ... I only paid $45 for a new set of doubles last year. Comes out of the maintenance account.
     
  5. otherhalftw

    otherhalftw R.I.P.

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    First...you want to get a chain rack installed on your rig....much easier to get to and put away the chains after the first use. The correct amount of chains to have with you would be 4 bags of singles....(8 chains)....1 or 2 packages of bungee cords.

    The doubles are a pain and heavy when applying, also the best way to apply doubles is to drop the trailer and get them on with the clearance away from the trailer....less stress on the back.....And pulling for Swift, the "extra weight" the chains add should not be a problem...

    Whoever told you $600.00 for a complete set of chains is nuts....cut that price in half...and get your chains and rack from Swift, it will be deducted from maintenance account or you can arrange a payment plan of 3 separate payments.

    Now the next obvious question is....do you know how to put the chains on correctly? and...do you know the difference between;
    1. Minimum chain
    2. Modified Maximum chain
    3. Maximum chain
    4. What chain minimums are for each State.....they are a little different.
    5. Will you be required to apply a "drag chain"? Do you know what that is?
     
  6. jdsouza

    jdsouza Heavy Load Member

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    educate us
     
  7. otherhalftw

    otherhalftw R.I.P.

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    CA...gold discovery foothills
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    I will be doing a chain instruction video for my company (as soon as the temps get down a bit)....I will try to get with ADMIN or Masterteck to get the video posted on this Forum.
     
    inkeper Thanks this.
  8. roehl929

    roehl929 Medium Load Member

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    Cleveland, TN
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    I only got cables to be legal, I got them thru roehl brand new 4 bags of singles for 125 bucks. If you actually plan on using them go with chains no matter how much more they cost. The chain rack is a blessing too.
     
    otherhalftw Thanks this.
  9. otherhalftw

    otherhalftw R.I.P.

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    I forgot to mention....when using cables, check on the restrictions for each State...CA requires Maximum application of cables:
    1. One each side forward drive outside
    2. Cable on each rear drive axle tire (4)
    3. Drag chain (cable) either forward of rear tandem (1 each side, and can be staggered)

    Keep in mind...cables do not stand up well on dry/wet pavement...lose one on any required tire, and you are in violation.
     
  10. roehl929

    roehl929 Medium Load Member

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    Mar 4, 2011
    Cleveland, TN
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    Thnx for the info but I never plan on using mine. I'm gonna get a few more years under my belt before I cross the big hills in the bad season. I just have em cause I still run ut, and wy in the winter. And I never run ca. Probably never will
     
  11. neal79

    neal79 Medium Load Member

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    Chicago,IL
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    Please fill us in, sounds like I need to get 2 more sets I only have 6. Hell truck didn't have any when I got it and 6 is what I was able to score from Atlanta when I was there (all they had). I did learn how to put them on, ran donner pass with my mentor and minimums where in effect, was not a fun experience putting them on in the slush.
     
    otherhalftw Thanks this.
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