The importance of commercial drivers cannot be overstated. These women and men driving across the US and globally, delivering all sorts of goods and services keep the world and its economies thriving.
As the US Western regional manager for Onspot covering Colorado to Alaska I travel quite a bit in my territory and have met many commercial drivers along the way. When drivers spot my Sprinter van, a rolling billboard, they have questions about the auto chains.
What follows are the most frequently asked questions drivers have when deciding to add Onspot automatic tire chains to their winter safety and traction arsenal.
Is the Onspot system legal in chain control areas? This is usually the first question that comes up in conversation. The auto chains are recognized as an ATD (automatic traction device) in the US like other devices that are not conventional tire chains. To be legal each drive axle of the vehicle must be equipped with the system. For example, a tandem axle semi must run two sets of auto chains which is equal to “throwing singles” of conventional chain on all four corners.
If you are just looking for the benefit of traction on snow and ice and are not concerned about chain control areas, then one set of auto chains is sufficient.
How much does the Onspot system weigh? Use it with conventional chains? The Onspot system adds approximately 150 lbs. to each axle and is easily to remove during non-winter months. When it comes to full chain up most drivers, I talk to tend to wait out the storms. If you must continue to travel in these extreme conditions, however, you can use the auto chains on the inside duals and conventional chains on the outside.
What about Onspots on my trailer? Owner operators who also owner their trailer can equip it with a single set of auto chains which is the equivalent to a drag link.
Operation, maintenance, cost are all topics that come us as well. To learn more about operation and maintenance please click on the link below. For cost and to see if we can fit your application contact the Onspot regional manager in your area. If you’re out West just look for the rolling billboard. More than happy to stop and talk. Safe travels!
