How to avoid breaking chain links

Appreciate all the input from everyone. Got a lot of useful advice. Obviously this is an open forum filled with people from all areas of the globe. Everyone has their own perspective on how to do something and how not to do something. As for the criticism, also understandable. I've met many drivers that insist you have to do something a certain way. I know most just mean well. I get all that, but I still appreciate your input. Thanks again to all of those that responded. Especially some of the senior members with quite a bit of experience.

 

Yeah, I don't let people get to me. I also had to comb through all the posts just to get all the good input out of it.

1. Overall consensus is that contrary to what my direct coworkers are telling me; I am traveling way too fast with my chains.
2. Ways to avoid snapping my cross links to to bring my speed down to about 40-45 MPH and only travel at that speed when the snow is thick enough
3. Use the bungees to get some more of the slack out. I usually rehook the excess "tail" of the chain through my starter cam so the excess doesn't flop around. The main "groove" of the connection/starter cam is wide enough to fit two strands of chains through it.

I usually don't like to bring up my history... but after 9 1/2 years of driving I haven't had an accident/vehicle collision. I keep my "WannaBe" avatar status because I learn something new everyday and I am always open to new suggestions. This is the first season with new routes where I see more snow than I am used to, and some areas require chains. I leave mine on when the snow is thick enough and it makes sense to proceed while keeping them on. This thread was never intended to critique my driving, but I anticipated some form of criticism. Regardless, I got much needed advice and suggestions.

I understand everyone else's concerns though and I DO take many of these suggestions serious and I am willing to modify my driving. Thanks for your support though.