The document provides information about tire chain classifications and sizing:
- It defines SAE tire chain classifications S, U, and W which specify minimum tread and sidewall clearances for different vehicle types.
- Tire sizes are described using both imperial and metric measurements. Knowing the tire size is important for selecting the correct tire chain.
- Diagrams show different tire chain configurations for singles, duals, and triples as well as the anatomy of different tire chain components.
- Regulations for tire chains in jurisdictions like British Columbia, California, and Washington state are summarized, including when chains are required and proper mounting procedures.
3. S.A.E CLASSIFICATIONS
TIRE CLEARANCE
TIRE CHAIN
IDENTIFICATION
THREE
ENVELOPES
MINIMUM
DIMENSIONS
A C
SAE CLASS“S” 1.46”(37mm) 0.59”(15mm)
SAE CLASS“U” 1.97”(50mm) 0.91”(23mm)
SAE CLASS“W” 2.5”(63.5mm) 1.5” (38.1mm)
NOTE: Fordesignpurposes,“D”isthemaximumcrowntiresectionwidthasestablishedbytheTireandRimAssociation(TRA). Theminimumclearances
specifiedmustbemaintainedaroundspringclips,springbolts,fenders,braces,splashpans,fuellines,brakelines,brakecontrols,andwherevernecessary.
Tiresizemustbeknowninordertoselectatirechanofcorrectfit. Forpassengercars,vans,andsmallpick-uptrucks,itisimportanttochecktheowner’smanual.
Therestrictedwheelclearancesinmostoftoday’sdownsizedandfrontdrivevehiclesmayrequiretheuseofSAEClass“S”tirechains,asnotedinthemanuals.
SAE Class“S”
Regular (non-reinforced) passenger tire chains and cables for vehicles with restricted wheel well clearances.
1.46”clearance on tread-face, 0.59”clearance on side-wall.
SAE Class“U”
Regular (non-reinforced) and lug reinforced passenger tire chains for vehicles with regular (non-restricted) wheel well clearances.
1.97”clearance on tread-face, 0.91”clearance on side-wall
SAE Class“W”
Those passenger tire chains that use light truck components, as well as some light truck chains.
2.50”clearance on tread face, 1.50”clearance on side-wall
A
AA
C CD
The 3-peaked mountain and snowflake symbol on the
side of the tire.These winter tires offer the best traction
on snow and ice, and in cold weather.
ABOUTWINTERTIRES
The mud and snow symbol on the side of the tire
These winter tires offer better traction than summer tires,
however, they are less effective than 3-peaked mountain
and snowflake tires on snow and ice, and in cold weather.
Matching winter tires
You should have at least 2 matching winter tires
on the primary drive axle, but recommend using 4
matching tires on the four outside corners of the vehicle
- even when driving a 4X4 vehicle. Mixing tires with
different tread patterns, internal construction and size
compromises stability, and should be avoided.
Air pressure
Maintaining proper air pressure extends tread life
and improves safety.Tire pressure decreases as
temperatures drop, so have the pressure checked at
least once a month, when the tires are cold.
3.5 mm tread
Tires should have 3.5 mm of tread remaining to be
considered winter tires.Tires that are worn have
reduced traction and should not be used in winter
weather.
CHAIN CLASSIFICATION & SIZING
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4. TIRE SIZING
Knowing the customer’s tire size is important for choosing the correct tire chain part number. Our chains will accommodate the vast majority of
tire sizes available. However instances do occur which warrant confirming the dimensions of a tire to ensure the chain will fit. QCCanada’s sales
staff are trained in how to design a chain for any size tire.
IMPERIAL SIZES
Imperial sizing is normally expressed in two ways.
Tires indicating the height/width and rim size in inches look like this.
Eg: 31x10.5x15 = 31 (Height) X 10.5 (Width) X15 (Wheel diameter)
Tires indicating width and rim size, look like this.
Eg: 11R24.5
Sizes with only two figures are missing the sidewall height of the tire.
Although many common truck sizes are standardized you may need to
consult with manufacturers to confirm tire dimensions for specialty sizes.
The first number indicates the width of the tire in millimetres.The second figure represents the height of the side wall expressed as a percentage
of the first figure. For example; 315/80R22.5 the side wall is 80% of the tire width or 315 X 80%=252mm.The final figure is the diameter of the
wheel in inches.
Width of tire in millimeters
Ratio of height to width“ Aspect Ratio”
Diameter of wheel in inches
Aspect Ratio
252mm
Rim Diameter
22.5” or
571.5mm
Aspect Ratio
252mm
METRIC SIZES
Metric sizes are normally shown with three numerical figures
Eg: 315/80R22.5
IMPERIAL (inches) METRIC
(mm)
TRADE SIZE
Gauge Fractional
0.177 11/64” 4.5mm 1/0
0.192 3/16” 4.8mm 2/0
0.207 13/64” 5.2mm 3/0
0.218 7/32” 5.54mm 4/0
0.230 15/64’’ 5.84mm
0.250 1/4” 6.35mm 5/0
0.281 9/32” 7.0mm 6/0
UNITS OF MEASURE
IMPERIAL (inches) METRIC
(mm)
TRADE SIZE
Gauge Fractional
0.312 5/16” 8.0mm 7/0
0.344 11/32” 9.0mm 8/0
0.375 3/8” 9.5mm 9/0
0.393 25/64’’ 10.0mm
0.406 13/32” 10.3mm 10/0
0.437 7/16” 11.1mm 11/0
0.500 1/2” 12.7mm 12/10
0.531 17/32” 13.5mm 13/10
CHAIN CLASSIFICATION & SIZING
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5. SINGLE MOUNT
SINGLES
1/2 pair of singles shown.
Cross chains span
the width of one tire.
DUAL MOUNT
DUALS
1/2 pair of duals shown.
Cross chains span the width of
two tandem tires on a dual
axle set up.
TRIPLE MOUNT
TRIPLES
1/2 pair of triples shown. Centre side chain rail lies
in-between the two tandem tires of a dual axle set up.
Advantage: Centre rail helps keep the cross chains
from shifting and twisting.There must be enough
of a gap between the tandem tires to accommodate
the centre rail.
TIRECHAINANATOMY
LINKS
www.qccanada.com/useful-links
1. Fastener
(boomer) Joins and secures the ends of the chain
together.
2. Quick Hook
(C-hook) inside hook.
3. Cross Chain
(cross links) Provides traction with the ground surface.
4. Cross Chain Hook
Secures cross chains to the side chain.
5. Side Chain
(side rails) Acts as theframefortirechainconstruction.
6. Centre Rail
(triples only) Simply a piece of side chain in the middle
of a 1/2 set of triple chains.
7. Cams/Cam Side Chain
(not featured on the set of triples in this picture)
Side chain with cams is available to make tightening
chain easier with the use of a cam tool).
QCCTractionProducts
TRUCK CHAIN CONFIGURATION & ANATOMY
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7. TIRE CHAIN REGULATIONS
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CONTACT INFORMATION AND LINKS
Several Provinces and States have chain laws in place that require traction devices to be carried/or
used at specific times of the year or certain road conditions. See the links below.
Failure to do so can result in fines and/ or other penalties.
It’s not mandatory to use tire chains in a number of Provinces or States. Check the Province or State
Depart of Transportation for the requirements or regulatory changes.
CANADA
British Columbia Ministry of Transportation
http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/transportation/driving-and-cycling/driving/
traveller-information/seasonal/winter-driving
USA
Washington State Department of Transportation:
www.wsdot.wa.gov/winter
www.wsdot.wa.gov/CommercialVehicle/chain_req
Oregon State Department of Transportation:
www.tripcheck.com/Pages/chain-laws.asp
www.tripcheck.com/Pages/minimum-chain-requirements.asp
California State Department of Transportation:
www.dot.ca.gov
http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/roadinfo/chcontrl.htm
Nevada State Department of Transportation:
www.nevadadot.com
www.nevadadot.com/safety/winter/chains.aspx
Colorado State Department of Transportation:
www.codot.gov/travel
https://www.codot.gov/travel/colorado-chain-law
Chain law regulations may change at any time.
STUDDED TIRES OR TIRE CHAINS?
Cable and tire chains are legal
to use in every Province or
State in North America.
They are considered
temporary and installed only
when needed.
Some Provinces and States
will limit the use/or outlaw
studded tires because
the studs are considered
a permanent device and
contribute to the damage
of the road and highway
surfaces.
NORTH AMERICANTIRE CHAIN REGULATIONS
8. TIRE CHAIN REGULATIONS -CALIFORNIA
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (Caltrans)
Chain Requirements
Revised 12/15
Vehicles are permitted in chain control areas when
equipped with chains or Automatic Traction Device
(ATD) as indicated. Tire traction devices are defined
in the California Vehicle Code (VC) Section 605 which
include conventional link-type tire chains and cable
chains, as well as other less conventional devices.
When the term“chains” is used here, it means any
“tiretractiondevice” (notnecessarilylinktypechain)
which meets the requirements of (VC) Section 605.
Vehicles with cable chains as well as other less
conventional devices are legal in California. However,
these may be restricted at times due to local conditions.
Minimum legal tread depth for mud and snow tires is 6/32 of an inch.
Caltrans and the California Highway Patrol (CHP), reserve the right to
prohibit any vehicle from entering a chain control area when it’s determined
that the traction devices do not meet the requirements of (VC) section 605.
LEGEND
Driving axle
Non-driving axle
Wheel with chains or ATD
Wheel with no chains or ATD
7%
Drive axle must be chained.
Chains on trailers may be staggered front
and back.
Chains required on inside dual (if possible) .
Caltrans and CHP may require chains on
all drive wheels if conditions warrant.
Both axles must be chained(four wheels with
chains or ATD).
NOTES
• All vehicles, including four wheel drive vehicles,that
are towing trailers must have chains on one drive axle.
• Trailers with brakes must have chains on one axle.
• Front wheel drive vehicles must have chains on
front (drive) axle.
• On any semi-trailer,only one set of chains is required
regardless of number of axles.
• Chains are not required on tag axle.
• Trucks or tractors equipped with super singles, chains
are required on all drive wheels.
or Acceptable on either axle of semi-trailers.
1 1F 2
3 4
5
8
5
6
10
7
11
AUTOS/PICKUPS
BUSES/RECREATIONALVEHICLES
TRUCKS
16
(Articulated buses must also chain outside wheels of last axle.)
Type 2 Type 3
Truck Type 2
Truck Type 3 Tractor and Semi-trailer Single Dr.
Tractor and Semi-trailer Type 3-S-2
Tractor,Semi-trailer,and Trailer Type 3-S-1-T-2
Truck and Trailer Type 3-T-3 or 3-T-2
The following truck may be restricted when chains are required:
Tractor,Semi-trailer,and Trailer Type 2-S-1-T-2
For questions regarding these configurations, please contact
the Caltrans Maintenance Program at (916) 654-2852.
• All vehicles, including four wheel or all wheel drive vehicles
must carry chains upon entering a chain control area.
9. TIRE CHAIN REGULATIONS -WASHINGTON STATE
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Minimum Chain RequirementAll vehicles over 10,000 lbs
gross vehicle weight (GVW) shall carry a minimum of two
(2) extra chains for use in the event that road conditions
require the use of more chains or in the event that chains
in use are broken or otherwise made useless,
WAC 204-24-050 (2) (f).
Approved chains for vehicles over 10,000 pounds gross
vehicle weight shall have at least two side chains to which
are attached sufficient cross chains of hardened metal so
that at least one cross chain is in contact with the road
surface at all times. Plastic chains shall not be allowed. The Washington State Patrol may approve other devices as
chains if the devices are equivalent to regular chains in performance (cable chains allowable).
All vehicles and combinations of vehicles over 10,000 pounds shall carry sufficient tire chains to meet the
requirements from November 1 to April 1 of each year or at other times when chains are required for such vehicles:
Diagram of proper chain placement for different axle configurations shown below.
WHEN SIGNS MARKED“VEHICLES OVER 10,000GVWR”OR“ALL VEHICLES - CHAINS REQUIRED (EXCEPT ALL WHEEL DRIVE)”
ARE POSTED, ALL VEHICLES OVER 10,000 LBS. MUST HAVE TIRE CHAINS MOUNTED ON THE TIRES AS REQUIRED.
10. CRUZ LT CABLE CHAINS
10.2mm metal rollers over cross cable. Ideal for low clearance vehicles.These cables are an economical alternative to traditional chains.
Provides great emergency traction.
Standard Packaging
Fastener
LIGHTNING DIAGONAL CABLE CHAINS
10.2mm metal rollers over cross cable. Ideal for low clearance vehicles.These cables are an economical alternative to traditional chains.
Provides great emergency traction.
Standard Packaging
TRUCK
SINGLES TRIPLES CROSS
CABLE#
CROSS CABLE
LENGTH
PART # WEIGHT/PR PART # WEIGHT/PR
2314 7Kg (15 lbs) 4314 13Kg (29 lbs) 8825 17”
2315 7Kg (16 lbs) 4315 15Kg (33 lbs) 8825 17”
2316 8Kg (17 lbs) 4316 15Kg (34 lbs) 8825 17”
2317 8Kg (18 lbs) 4317 19Kg (41 lbs) 8825 17”
SINGLES WEIGHT/PR
CROSS
CABLE #
CROSS CABLE
LENGTH
PART # WEIGHT/PR PART # WEIGHT/PR
3055 10Kg (23 lbs) 8813 21.5”
3057 10Kg (23 lbs) 8813 21.5”
3061 10Kg (23 lbs) 8814 23.75”
3065 10Kg (22 lbs) 8815 24.5”
3069 10Kg (21 lbs) 8815 24.5”
3071 10Kg (22 lbs) 8815 24.5”
Spider
Tensioner
#0218
WIDE BASE CABLES
All Spider tensioners sold separately
SINGLES WEIGHT/PR
CROSS CABLE
LENGTH
PART # WEIGHT/PR WEIGHT/PR
A881 12Kg (27 lbs) 22”
A887 14Kg (31 lbs) 25”
A891 14Kg (30 lbs) 25”
A896 17Kg (37 lbs) 30”
A898 19Kg (42 lbs) 30”
Spider
Tensioner
#0218
QCCTractionProducts
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14. 0218
SpiderTensioners
ACCESSORIES
Comes with Cam Locks
All Spider tensioners sold separately
TRUCK
SINGLES
W/ CAMS
TRIPLES
W/ CAMS CROSS CHAIN
#
CROSS CHAIN
SIZE
PART # WEIGHT/PR PART # WEIGHT/PR
2137SLC 21Kg (47 lbs) 4137SLC 42Kg (92 lbs) 6251SL (7mm) (9/32”)
2139SLC 28Kg (61 lbs) 4139SLC 48Kg (105 lbs) 6251SL (7mm) (9/32”)
2141SLC 25Kg (56 lbs) 4141SLC 48Kg (105 lbs) 6251SL (7mm) (9/32”)
2147SLC 28Kg (61 lbs) 4147SLC 51Kg (112 lbs) 6253SL (7mm) (9/32”)
2149SLC 29Kg (65 lbs) 4149SLC 55Kg (121 lbs) 6253SL (7mm) (9/32”)
2141HDQC 28Kg (62 lbs) 4141HDQC 66Kg (146 lbs) 6260SL (8mm) (5/16”)
2147HDQC 31Kg (68 lbs) 4147HDQC 69Kg (151 lbs) 6263SL (8mm) (5/16”)
2149HDQC 34Kg (74 lbs) 4149HDQC 71Kg (156 lbs) 6263SL (8mm) (5/16”)
2151SLC 32Kg (70 lbs) 4151SLC 57Kg (126 lbs) 6260SL (8mm) (5/16”)
2155SLC 34Kg (74 lbs) 4155SLC 60Kg (133 lbs) 6263SL (8mm) (5/16”)
SQUARE LINK ALLOY
7mm and 8mm cross Chains. Alloy steel for durability. Includes cam locks.
Reversible for extra long life - can run on both sides.
Square edge links dig into driving surface providing excellent traction.
HD -Heavy Duty
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15. QCCANADA
All Spider tensioners sold separately
The CanTrac is comprised of alloy steel which keeps the chain light and
offers excellent strength.The diamond pattern creates a smooth ride
and provides great on-road traction.The CanTrac is a great choice for
operators looking for a lightweight traction solution.
V-BAR LIGHTWEIGHT
SINGLES W/ CAMS CROSS
PATTERN #PART # WEIGHT/PR
CT343QC 19.6 Kg (44 lbs) CT55225
CT344QC 22.7 Kg (50 lbs) CT55225
CT355QC 22.2 Kg (49 lbs) CT55225
TRIPLES W/ CAMS CROSS
PATTERN #PART # WEIGHT/PR
CT743QC 38.1 Kg (84 lbs) CT55225
CT744QC 44 Kg (97 lbs) CT55225
CT755QC 43.1 Kg (95 lbs) CT55225Comes with Cam Locks
0218
SpiderTensioners
ACCESSORIES
QCCANADA
QCCANADA
TRUCK
CANTRAC
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PATHFINDERTIRECHAINSSQUARE ICE
16. TRUCK
• 8mm super alloy studded cross chains for deep lug traction tires.
• Oversized studs & deep carburization for maximum strength & durability.
• 10mm hardened bell-style hook keeps the cross chain stable on the tire.
• 8mm hardened side chain stands up to the stress of cross chain twists and pulls.
• 7mm lightweights have 6mm side chain & 8mm hooks for a super strong,
ultra light weight chain.
STUDDED ALLOY
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17. TRUCKTRUCK
WhattoLookforinPremiumStuddedTruckChains
What is the Nordic advantage?
Nordic chains use a blend of alloys and a unique heat treatment process to achieve a tool hard surface that avoids the brittleness found in traditional
case hardened products.
The following graphics show that Nordic branded products have a more consistent microstructure, indicating a harder surface for longer life and
stronger core which resists breakages.
All Nordic studded skidder chains utilize the same manufacturing process.
Inconsistent Core Microstructure
EUROPEANCOMPETITOR’S8MMSTUDDED
Long needles
Large, white
carbide areas
A
Consistent Core Microstructure
NORDIC 8MM STUDDED
B
Smaller, white
carbide areas,
shorter needles
DISTANCEFROMSURFACEMM
(INCH)
EUROPEAN
COMPETITOR
8MM STUDDED
NORDIC
8MM STUDDED
0.05 6.8 6.8
0.10 6.4 6.9
0.15 6.4 6.5
0.20 6.1 6.4
0.25 (0.010”) 5.9 6.2
0.30 5.6 6.3
0.35 5.7 6.2
0.40 5.7 5.9
0.45 5.2 5.8
0.50 (0.020”) 4.7 5.6
0.55 - 5.0
0.60 - 5.0
0.65 - 4.8
1.00 (0.042”) 4.5 4.5
CORE 4.3 4.4
HARDNESS TEST REPORT
Deepest Case
Depth 0.5MM
Nordic Studded Chains have deeper case hardening and
more consistent core microstructure than the competition
providing you with the
strongest, most durable studded
product on the market.
At Left:
Close-up of our Nordic 8mm
studs after 500 kms of use
on a loaded tandem-trailer
logging truck .
A B
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23. PRODUCT APPLICATION
RIM
DIAMETER
PART #
WEIGHT
PER/PAIR
PAIRS PER
CASE
SPIDER TENSIONERS assist in ensuring a secure fit for your tire chains and reduces the chance of vehicle damage.
LightTruck
(7 arms)
0217 .9 Kg (2 lb) 30
MediumTruck
(6 arms)
0218 .8 Kg (1.8 lb) 20
Small Loader /Tractor
(7 arms)
0220 1.4 Kg (3 lb) 30
CHAIN / BOLT CUTTERS
BC18
Medium
Handle
Passenger Car 45 cm (18”) 2.3 Kg (5 lbs)
BC30
Long
Handle
Truck 76 cm (30”) 3.6 Kg (8 lbs)
BC36
Long
Handle
Off-Road 91 cm (36”) 5.4 Kg (12 lbs)
TARP STRAPS with S - HOOKS
PART # STRAP LENGTH PIECES PER BOX
CCRTS-9 9”STRAP 50
CCRTS-15 15”STRAP 50
CCRTS-21 21”STRAP 50
CCRTS-31 31”STRAP 50
CCRTS-41 41”STRAP 50
SHOE CHAINS
PART # DESCRIPTION MENS WOMENS
SCM Medium Shoe Chain 5-9 6-10
SCL Large Shoe Chain
9-5
-12.5
10.5
& UP
SCXL Xtra Large Shoe Chain
13
& UP
N/A
SCDAP
Retail Display Box w/ 10pr each of:
SCM, SCL, & SCXL
5-13
& UP
6-10.5
& UP
PARTS & ACCESSORIES
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