Snow chains Chains are a legal requirement when entering the Kosciuszko National Park, 4WD are exempt, although recommended to carry. A $330 fine is applicable to 2WD cars not carrying chains in Alpine National Parks.
Two-wheel drive vehicles: The traction provided by all types of vehicles is greatly undermined on roads affected by snow and ice, with two-wheel drive vehicles being affected more than 4WD vehicles. These conditions reduce a vehicle’s road handling and braking performance compared to dry and wet roads, and increases the risk of a vehicle crashing. Four-wheel drive vehicles: Four-wheel drive vehicles generally have better road holding performance than two-wheel drive vehicles on slippery surfaces. Although the Regulation acknowledges this by excluding persons driving 4WD vehicles from the requirements to carry and fit snow chains, statistics show that these vehicles are not excluded from crashes. There are three sets of numbers written on each tyre that will determine which type of chain your car needs.
A typical reading is: 195/55R15 these break down to: 195 indicates the nominal section width of the tyre in millimetres (205mm). 55 indicates its aspect ratio, a comparison of the tyre's section height with its section width (55 indicates the height is 55% of its width). R indicates radial ply construction. 15 indicates the nominal diameter of the wheel rim (15 inches). There are two types of chains, hoop and diamond.
When hiring chains for your drive to the snow you only need to know the three numbers from your tyre and the guys renting you the chains will know everything else and be able to show you how to put them on. Come in and see the experts, they can answer any questions you have! The Snowy Road app has a video to show you how to put your chains on in case you’re unsure once up there. The app also allows you to pre book hire and stay updated on conditions.
www.snowyroads.com.au For instructions on how to put your chains on find more information and specific instructions here: https://www.rhythmsnowsports.com.au/info/helpful-information/fitting-chains.html
OTHER CAR SAFETY
Brakes, steering and suspension are critical for the safe handling of a car in slippery conditions. Book your car in for servicing just prior to your trip to the Snowies. Faulty brakes can easily cause a car to slide off the road or collide with others. Tyres - It is beneficial to have plenty of tread to grip the surface and break through any thin ice on the roads. If you plan to travel to the snow frequently this season consider fitting a set of winter tyres with an aggressive tread pattern. Most people find their car to be heavily loaded on skiing trips, check your vehicles owner handbook for the maximum tire pressure and increase to this level for added safety. Windscreen - check and or replace wiper blades prior to your trip to the snow. Carry a scrapper to remove ice from your windscreen. It is not recommended to use boiling water to clear your windscreen as it may crack. Anti-Freeze - is required in the cooling system. Follow the manufacturer's directions on mixing techniques and the quantity to use. Batteries - can be affected by cold weather so it is important to check your battery before you head to the snow. If in doubt get a new one. Fuel - If you drive a diesel car make sure you fill up with Alpine Diesel or Winter-Mix diesel located in our BP Service station. It has a lower freezing point so is better for your car in the cold mountain conditions
CHECKING ROAD CONDITIONS
Call the Roads and Traffic Authority on 131 700 https://www.rta.nsw.gov.au/ For more tips on your Snow Sport equipment stay in touch: facebook/rhythmsnowsports instagram: @rhythmsnowsports twitter: @rhythmsnowsportPosted by Emily Dorahy on
