When should I put on chains?

It is extremely rare for road truckers in the US (non oilfield) to chain up unless directed to do so by the state via signage. This will always be at the base of a mountain or other grade that becomes difficult to climb in slick conditions.

Otherwise, when it get real bad like in the plains, or Wyoming they will close the roads rather than post a chain requirement.

 

Chains are for emergencies. They're for getting you out of trouble. Not for getting you into trouble.

 

Chain up when you feel the need too. Don’t worry about what others say or think. Unless the signs are out, then worry.

I’ve chained many times when there wasn’t a requirement. I’ve also been written tickets for not chaining

Slick or snow covered roads are dangerous as hell in high winds. And the mountain passes are not forgiving. So the added traction of chains is comforting.

 

Right after you polish them. That's when the gold looks its best

 

I'm going to have to disagree on that. For some, the freight MUST move. Winter weather and snowed in passes are every week occurrences and some supplies are really that critical.

Granted for the typical new driver, they won't be in those gigs but chains for some are as typical [and required by the company] as a daily PTI

 

Besides chaining up when being required to by road signs alerts or DOT road crews, chaining up is simply a matter of common sense. One puts on chains because of slippery road conditions due to snow and ice.

Obvious indications that traction devices are necessary is layered and compressed snow on the roadway causing slippery conditions.

Seeing several C R England and Swift trucks stuck in the median or in a ditch alongside the road is also clear indication that use of traction devices should be employed.

Most of the time you only need to chain up to drive a short distance, and if it hadn't been for the jackanapes in that unfortunate RV inexplicably stopping on that incline you could have kept going without having needed to chain up for two miles. I digress.

In instances where you need only drive a short distance, my lazy self only puts chains on the outside tires of the third axle.

Keeping some road sand handy can come in handy for getting going again if you think you can squeak by without chains.

 

I always carry a 50 lb sack of kitty liter, 6 bucks at Tractor Trailer, worth every penny. I've had several loading docks I could not get out of and a coffee can of liteer in front of the drive and out she comes.

For the newb's good idea to learn exactly how to chain before you are in the situation, theres a youtube by ABF or one of the freight companies that is a go tutorial.

https://www.thetruckersreport.com/chaining/od

 

Your company should supply you with 3 sets of singles. Plus 1 for spares. For a total of 4.
8 chains total.

The back outside drives get chained. Usually the trailer is required also. And If required, the front outside drives.

Out here in the west. Not always are there signs. Main highways usually but secondary roads not so much. Roll down your drivers window and listen for the trucks going the opposite direction.

Chains aren't usually required on flat stretches of highways. It's the hills you gotta be concerned about. So if you're coming up on a good sized climb and there aren't any signs. Roll down the window enough to hear outside and listen for trucks coming down the hill with chains on their tires.

I carry bag of salt. Not only do I want traction but I want some melting also.