OnSpot Most Frequently Asked Questions

 

How fast can I go and turn ONSPOT chains on?

ONSPOTs are designed to be engaged and disengaged while the vehicle is in motion. The system can be activated at speeds of up to 25 mph.
 

How fast can I go with the chains engaged?

Up to 35 mph
 

Do ONSPOTs work in reverse?

Yes. As the chainwheel engages at the centerline of the tire and is powered by centrifugal force, the system will deliver traction in both forward and reverse directions.
 

Where do I get ONSPOTs for my vehicles?

McCandless Tuck Center is your authorized OnSpot dealer serving Colorado, Wyoming, and Nevada. Contact us for more information.
 

How much does the ONSPOT system cost?

Each Onspot system is customized to suit specific vehicles, which leads to different pricing depending on the application and type of vehicle. To get an accurate quote, please reach out to us for pricing information.
 

Will I get traction in deep snow?

ONSPOT is specifically engineered to effectively work well on ice, compacted snow, and in conditions with up to 6 inches of snow.
 

Are ONSPOT chains approved in states with chain control areas?

ONSPOT is acknowledged as a single set of chains in all states with chain control areas.
 

What size vehicles can be fitted with ONSPOTs?

ONSPOTs are compatible with various vehicles, ranging from ½ ton pickup trucks to Class 8 tractor-trailers. However, it's important to note that not every vehicle can accommodate ONSPOTs.
 

How do I know if my vehicle can be fit with ONSPOTs?

Reach out to our trusted professionals and they will inform you whether OnSpot Tire Chains are the right fit for your vehicle. This is determined by completion of a Vehicle Suspension Information (VSI) measurement form.
 

Is ONSPOT a “one size fits all” product?

No.  OnSpot chains are not a universal product. Filling out the vehicle suspension information form (VSI) willl ensure that OnSpot ships the correct fit for your vehicle.
 

How do ONSPOTs attach to the suspension?

ONSPOT offers a diverse range of mounting bracket designs. Generally, the vehicle mounting bracket is secured by connecting to the vehicle's U-Bolts.
 

How long does the installation take?

The standard installation time for a vehicle equipped with air brakes is about six to eight hours, while for those without air brakes, it typically takes less time.
 

Can I do my own installation?

ONSPOTs can be installed without any special tools.  It is helpful to have compressed air available, since U-Bolts may need to be removed.  The system comes with a complete set of mounting instructions and can be easily installed by an average mechanic. If you want peace of mind and to save time our highly skilled technicians can install them for you. Request an estimate.
 

How much weight will the system add to the vehicle?

The ONSPOT system generally adds a weight of 125 pounds to each drive axle for a large vehicle fitted with air brakes.
 

Can ONSPOT fit vehicles without air brakes?

Yes.  ONSPOT can provide a 12 volt electric air compressor kit to put air onboard to operate the ONSPOT chains for vehicles without air brakes.
 

What is the CFM for ONSPOTs air compressor?

The air compressor has a .49 CFM output.  The supplied air tank holds 600 cubic inches of air.  ONSPOT supplies a pressure switch that maintains between 85 to 100 psi pressure in the air tank.
 

Why should I get a 6 strand chainwheel?

ONSPOT supplies a 6 strand chainwheel as its standard chainwheel.  The 6 strands are made from thru hardened steel alloy.  12 and 18 strand chainwheels are available as an option.  Our testing has shown that a 6 strand wheel provides more bite ability, lasts longer, works better in deeper snow, and is less expensive to replace than 12 and 18 strand chainwheels.
 

Why doesn’t ONSPOT use replaceable chain lengths?

Since the system relies on centrifugal force, ONSPOT has observed that all six lengths of chain wear evenly over time. Additionally, if one chain length breaks today, it's likely that another will fail soon after, followed by a third. This could lead to the customer having to repair the same wheel multiple times. Moreover, if you replace just one chain length while leaving the other five worn ones, it can cause wheel imbalance and negatively impact performance. Therefore, replacing all six lengths of chain at once is the best and most cost-effective solution.
 

How long will my ONSPOTs last?

The ONSPOT system is designed to last the life of the vehicle.  Naturally, the system will consume some replacement parts over its life.  The chains, with our thru hardened steel alloy, typically last for 2,000 engaged miles.
 

Where can I get replacement parts for my ONSPOTs?

OnSpot Parts can be purchased through our McCandless Parts Department! Submit a parts inquiry.
 

What can I do to get the most out of my ONSPOT system?

ONSPOT recommends adhering to the maintenance procedures detailed in our Operation and Maintenance Bulletin #6160004. Additionally, we suggest that the operator become familiar with the system by watching our operation video.
 

What maintenance do ONSPOTs require?

ONSPOTs are designed for minimal maintenance. It's advisable to grease the arm bearings during regular vehicle maintenance, and the chainwheels should be taken off in the summer. For more details, please consult the ONSPOT maintenance card #6160004 and the tune-up sheet #6160063.
 

Where do I find parts and service information?

Visit our OnSpot Parts & Service Resources Page 
 

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