Tips every fleet manager and driver needs to know!

During the winter months when weather takes a turn, ensuring your fleet is prepared is vital for safety and efficiency. Proper winter fleet preparation helps reduce downtime, prevents accidents and protects drivers. Mounting tire chain hangers on your heavy-duty trucks and tractors is a key step in cold weather readiness.

Here is your step-by-step installation guide!

1. Pre-installation planning is important! Make sure you gather all items required before getting started:

• Tire chain hanger assembly
• Frame drill and appropriate drill bits
• Torque wrench 
• Frame mounting brackets or U-bolts (depending on the design) 
• Measuring tape and marking tools 
• Anti-corrosion treatment (paint or sealant for drilled holes) 
• Thread-locker compound 
• Appropriate PPE  

2. Consider these steps before you start the installation process:

• Clearance: Ensure the hanger does not interfere with the fuel tank, quarter fender, suspension components, or other critical components. 
• Weight Capacity: Verify the truck frame and mounting location can support the tire chains and hanger weight. 
• Regulatory Compliance: Confirm the installation aligns with DOT regulations and manufacturer recommendations. 

3. Select the proper mounting location: 

• Measure the Space: Confirm there’s sufficient room for the hanger and chains and allow extra clearance for the chain’s removal and installation. 
• Check for Obstructions: Inspect the area on both sides of the frame for wiring, air lines, and fuel lines. Ensure no components will be damaged or blocked.  
• Mark the Position: Use a marker or chalk to outline the mounting location on the truck frame.

4. Prepare the frame:

• Clean the Surface: Remove dirt, grease, and debris from the mounting area. 
• Drill Mounting Holes (if required): Use the hanger's mounting plate as a template to mark hole positions. Drill carefully, ensuring the holes are straight and properly aligned.  
• Apply Corrosion Protection: Paint or seal drilled holes to prevent rust. 

5. Install the hanger: 

• Position the hanger: Align the tire chain hanger with the drilled holes on the frame. 
• Attach to frame: Use U-bolts, clamps, or bolts, depending on the design. If bolting directly to the frame, apply thread-locker to the bolts. Apply corrosion protection between the hanger and the frame of the tractor.   
• Torque fasteners: Tighten all bolts/nuts to the manufacturer’s specified torque settings to ensure secure mounting. 

6. Verify installation: 

• Check Clearance: Ensure the hanger and tire chains do not touch or rub against any external components such as the fuel tank, quarter fender, air tanks, or other components.
• Test Chain Fitment: Place chains on the hanger to verify fit and balance. 
• Inspect Fasteners: Confirm all fasteners are secure and properly torqued. 

7. Final steps: 

• Double-check Stability: Apply a slight load or shake test to ensure the hanger doesn’t move. 
• Log Installation: Document the installation with a repair order for maintenance tracking and compliance records.
• Periodic Maintenance: Regularly inspect the hanger and fasteners for wear, looseness, or corrosion issues.  

Properly mounting tire chain hangers on your heavy-duty trucks is critical step in making sure your fleet is prepared for winter road conditions, giving peace of mind to both fleet managers and drivers. Taking the time to follow these guidelines will help your fleet be prepared for the icy conditions and keep drivers safe on the road.  

Safety Disclaimer: Installation procedures may vary by truck manufacturer and hanger design. Always follow OEM guidelines and applicable safety regulations, and ensure installation is performed by qualified persons using proper safety equipment.