Touring in snow

moonchip
moonchip Forum Participant Posts: 106
edited January 2016 in Towcars & Towing #1

Hello all

Planning for the weather soon to arrive, hopefully because I LOVE snow.

If towing in snow, would you fit your caravan with snow chains ?

My tow car already has winter /M&S tyres fitted and I have a full set (2 pairs) of snow chains for the tow.But would you put chains on the caravan as well, or just tow it

Any replies appreciated

Comments

  • rogher
    rogher Forum Participant Posts: 609
    500 Comments
    edited January 2016 #2

    I avoid travelling in conditions like that. I know my limitations and can probably drive within them but I think there are too many others that don’t and can’t.

    As I understand it, chains are used to improve traction, so need to be applied to the driving wheels. They may help with braking a little and, for that reason only, could be placed on all wheels. I would not bother with a caravan.

  • Briang
    Briang Club Member Posts: 670 ✭✭✭
    500 Comments
    edited January 2016 #3

    If you have a 4 x 4 you should only fit chains to the rear wheels as for the caravan i wouldn't fit them, and remember there is a 30mph speed limit with chains on. I don't know the speed limit with a caravan attached.

  • xtrailman
    xtrailman Forum Participant Posts: 559
    edited January 2016 #4

    What the AA says.

    "

    • A front wheel drive car with chains only on the front wheels will have a tendency to oversteer.
    • A rear wheel drive car with chains only on the rear will tend to understeer.
    • A four wheel drive vehicle should have chains fitted to all four wheels."
  • moonchip
    moonchip Forum Participant Posts: 106
    edited January 2016 #5

    Thanks for your replies - much appreciated.

    I tow with a 3 ltr Hilux and obviously in snow conditions would be running in 4 wheel drive. I have a set of snow chains for the rear axle (RUD's - very aggressive bite) and a gentler set for the front axle (Thule) which is lower profile and offers better
    clearances around the tyre rim.

    I may look into a pair of Weisenthals for the caravan especially for lateral traction when away from motorways.

    Thanks very much

  • Briang
    Briang Club Member Posts: 670 ✭✭✭
    500 Comments
    edited January 2016 #6

    You should refer to your handbook, that will tell you whether to have one set or two sets. Do a google search.

  • Chris Ardis
    Chris Ardis Forum Participant Posts: 55
    edited January 2016 #7

    Your caravan tyres do not provide any traction, they only follow the towing vehicle.
    Do not fit chains to them. In slick conditions your van may well slide sideways on bends so drive with care. Check out 'Ice Road Truckers' on channel 5 to see how the Professionals cope in extreeme winter weather.

  • TonyBurton
    TonyBurton Forum Participant Posts: 269
    edited January 2016 #8

    I believe you should also have the hitch stabiliser disconnected in icy conditions.

     

  • TimJim
    TimJim Forum Participant Posts: 162
    edited January 2016 #9

    Unless your car has the capability..ie full time 4wd ...not the slippy grippy type which are rubbish and show their limitation almost immediately drive is required at all 4 wheels for extended periods... and you the driver have the actual ability to do so
    ...dont. Its not fair to the people who will end up bailing you out.

    Tj

  • xtrailman
    xtrailman Forum Participant Posts: 559
    edited January 2016 #10

    I don't see a problem myself.

     Having also actually towed in snow with a part time 4x4, and with out snow chains or snow tyres. Not by choice really as it wasn't planned.

    A muddy field i've found more challenging.

  • moonchip
    moonchip Forum Participant Posts: 106
    edited January 2016 #11

    Unless your car has the capability..ie full time 4wd ...not the slippy grippy type which are rubbish and show their limitation almost immediately drive is required at all 4 wheels for extended periods... and you the driver have the actual ability to do so
    ...dont. Its not fair to the people who will end up bailing you out.

    Tj

    Hi TJ

    I'd be ever so embarrassed if I caused others to need to come to my assistance.  Its usually me helping others, inlcuding the Land Rovers of my local Mountain Rescue who appreciate that a well set up 4x4 from someone easy to get hold of ( mobile phone, car
    phone, satellite comms) who knows what he's doing is really very appreciated Happy

  • moonchip
    moonchip Forum Participant Posts: 106
    edited January 2016 #12

    I don't see a problem myself.

     Having also actually towed in snow with a part time 4x4, and with out snow chains or snow tyres. Not by choice really as it wasn't planned.

    A muddy field i've found more challenging.

    A muddy field is an excellent 'use' for snow chains if you have them

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