Roof Carrier Systems

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RUD diamond pattern snow chains are imported from Germany and are available from RCS for all cars and AWDs. RUD chains can be serviced or repaired and RCS will always trade-back RUD chains when you change your car or tyre size.

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RUD Snow Chains

RUD Ketten Rieger & Dietz GmbH is a privately owned company which was established in Germany in 1875. RUD first manufactured snow chains in 1906 and the RUD Group employs over 1000 people worldwide. RUD snow chains have a tradition that now goes back over 100 years. The further development of RUD ‘snow how’ has lead to a wide variety of innovative solutions which lead to higher traction and drive quality, and to more safety for both people and vehicles.

For more information regarding the RUD Group and RUD chains visit the RUD website.

Warning – many cars and AWDs fitted with wide low profile tyres can not be fitted with any type of snow chain.

Please call to check the suitability of your tyres for snow driving and if snow chains can be fitted to your vehicle.

Does the vehicle have sufficient clearance to fit snow chains?

One of the main problem area of the requirement to fit snow chains is the increasing number of vehicles where there is insufficient clearance to fit snow chains. These vehicles include front wheel drive, rear wheel drive and all wheel drive vehicles. Drivers should consult the vehicle owners manual or ask their vehicle dealer about the maximum tyre size the vehicle manufacturer authorizes for snow chains. There may be liability and safety issues if snow chains are fitted to tyre and wheel combinations that are not approved by the vehicle manufacturer.

The issue is usually the clearance between the inner part of the tyre and the suspension and or steering components rather than the clearance between the tyre and the body or the tyre and the mudguard. The fitments of wider, lower profile tyres by the vehicle manufactures are increasing and many of these wider tyre and larger wheel diameters do not allow any snow chains to be fitted.

High performance, high speed rated tyres and cold winter alpine temperatures, snow and icy roads are NOT compatible. The safest and most correct alternative is to have a second set of wheels fitted with winter tyres that are identified with the ‘snow-flake on the mountain peak’ symbol.

The winter wheel set will use a narrower tyre on a smaller diameter wheel which will be approved by the vehicle manufacturer to have snow chains fitted.

RUD chain selection and vehicle fitting guide

The chain selection section of the RUD website shows whether chains can be fitted for each combination of car and tyre. This is based on information provided by the vehicle manufacturers. Even seldom seen makes of sports and high performance cars can usually be fitted with chains – provided that they are fitted with appropriate tyres. Not all vehicles available on the Australian market are shown on this application guide at this time. Please call if your vehicle and tyre size is not listed.

A number of factors have to be taken into account when selecting the correct model of RUD snow chains. Important considerations are not only where the chains are to be used but also the car’s design, and how often the chains will be used. The expectation of a comfortable ride must not be forgotten, and of course the price also can be important.

RUD snow chains therefore offer more than one model.

Important Information for using Snow Chains

RUD fitting systems

RUD ice and snow chains are extremely quick to install and remove. The RUD’s 4 different fitting systems offer the ideal solution for every user and for every application. Illustrated, straightforward, and easy to understand fitting instructions are included with all RUD chains. Follow the links to videos of the fitting systems.

RCS snow chain hire service

RCS hire a range of RUD snow chains for all vehicles. Hire can be by the day, by the weekend, by the week or for longer periods as required.

Hire Warning

Many cars and 4WDs fitted with wide low profile tyres can not be fitted with any type of snow chain.

Please call to check the suitability of your tyres for snow driving and if snow chains can be fitted to your vehicle.