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Chains dragging under trucks ??

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Old Jan 10, 2006 | 09:33 PM
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Chains dragging under trucks ??

I was driving to work early this morning, it was still dark, and I noticed an ambulance in front of me had chains dragging on the ground from under the truck. They were just barely touching the ground but would send sparks flying every now and then. I asked my buddy what they were for but he didn't know either, but He said he has seen them on fire engines and other big trucks.
What are they for ??? Anybody know ??
 
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Old Jan 10, 2006 | 09:37 PM
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Probably to prevent static electricity.
 
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Old Jan 10, 2006 | 09:42 PM
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Is static electricity a problem in firetrucks and ambulances. I've never heard of this
 
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Old Jan 10, 2006 | 09:46 PM
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Yes, They are static arrest conductor.

Numerous electronics inside the Meat Wagon requires this system.
 
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Old Jan 10, 2006 | 09:50 PM
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Learn something new everyday, Thanks guys
 
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Old Jan 10, 2006 | 10:36 PM
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I think you will find they are automatic tire chains, they lower and spin to swing the chains under the tires, saves the hassle of getting out to put them on.
 
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Old Jan 10, 2006 | 11:04 PM
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In Delaware?
 
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Old Jan 10, 2006 | 11:16 PM
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I think he (itisedt) is talking about chains near the center underside of the ambulance. I have often wondered about it as well.....thanks for the explanation.
 
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Old Jan 10, 2006 | 11:20 PM
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On big rigs they are used to keep the mudflaps straight

or

from pulling them off accidently
 
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Old Jan 11, 2006 | 01:32 AM
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If they are between the rear tires and differential, they are automatic tire chains for icy, snowy roads. Most I have seen are air operated, They spin when activated, putting them under the tires. They really do help, so I have been told. If you get a chance look under a truck an you'll have abetter understanding of the system.

insta-chain on the web will show you what and how this works.
 
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Old Jan 11, 2006 | 06:12 AM
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yup, tire chains. flip the switch, and they fold down and rub on the sidewall of the tire, flinging the chain under the tire for traction in icy/snowy conditions. they work great to.
 
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Old Jan 11, 2006 | 01:45 PM
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Yup there auto tire chains, we have them on our Squads and engines. Very nice!!!
 
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Old Jan 12, 2006 | 08:28 AM
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http://www.onspot.com/indhist.htm
This is what they look like.
 
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Old Jan 14, 2006 | 08:13 PM
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I don't think hes talking about the snow chains.... I seen a few of the fire trucks, ambulance and some limos with a pair of chain on each near the center of the vehicle. I used to thought that if they dragged, it mean the vehicle is too low. But I also heard their for static also.
 
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Old Jan 15, 2006 | 06:28 AM
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Originally Posted by caddys83
I don't think hes talking about the snow chains.... I seen a few of the fire trucks, ambulance and some limos with a pair of chain on each near the center of the vehicle. I used to thought that if they dragged, it mean the vehicle is too low. But I also heard their for static also.
None of the above. They are snow chains.....that's it. They work very well on ice or snow up to about 4"-5" (as long as you are moving forward). They only contact the inner tire. They don't work in deep snow, and they don't work in reverse.
 
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