Forum Discussion

1L243's avatar
1L243
Explorer II
Nov 09, 2020

Snow Chains Cam Locks

I test fitted my new cam lock snow chains and they fit perfectly with all cams tightened. The chains seem pretty tight. But I read that you should pull over after a few miles and recheck the chains for tightness. If all the cams are locked I there would be no way to tighten. So should I grab a extra link when attaching and leave a cam lock loose encase I have to tighten down the road?

3 Replies

  • JRscooby's avatar
    JRscooby
    Explorer II
    Nov 09, 2020
    Decades back I had a tow truck. Had a set of worn drive tires mounted up. Mounted chains on them, because I could jack up and change all 4 tires on the back of truck in less time then getting chains mounted with wheels on truck. Most days the streets would get cleared off, not need chains. Only took a minute to unlatch and drive off them.
  • ktmrfs's avatar
    ktmrfs
    Explorer III
    Nov 09, 2020
    JRscooby wrote:
    Chains likely won't stretch. What happens is rolling the tire lets chains slip on tire, so loosen up. When you find the slack, open the cam, get another link, and lock again.
    BTW, if you need to tighten at first check, better stop/check again.


    exactly.
  • JRscooby's avatar
    JRscooby
    Explorer II
    Nov 09, 2020
    Chains likely won't stretch. What happens is rolling the tire lets chains slip on tire, so loosen up. When you find the slack, open the cam, get another link, and lock again.
    BTW, if you need to tighten at first check, better stop/check again.

About RV Tips & Tricks

Looking for advice before your next adventure? Look no further.25,174 PostsLatest Activity: Nov 02, 2025