Important Information

It is compulsory for all 2 wheel drive cars (2WD) to carry chains on NSW Alpine National Park roads.

4 wheel drive (4WD) and all wheel drive (AWD) vehicles are not required to carry chains, however we do recommend these vehicles carry and use chains in heavy snow conditions due to the difficulty of driving on snow and icy roads, especially if you are inexperienced.

Police are constantly monitoring vehicles to check if chains are being carried. Fines in excess of $350 are applicable to 2wd cars not carrying chains in NSW Alpine National Parks.

It is also important to note, always be aware – weather can change quickly in the mountain regions. It may look fine with clear roads when you go up the mountain in the morning, but become a full blown blizzard dumping snow in the afternoon. If you are not carrying chains and become stuck at mountain resorts or on the road, a fee of up to $400 will be charged to come and rescue you, as well as probably getting fined by NSW Police for not carrying chains.

Hire Snow Chains from the leaders in snow chain rental & sales, Boss Outdoor Sports, Jindabyne

Check the latest road reports for Snowy Alpine Roads. This camera provides an updating snapshot of the road conditions from Wilson Valley to Perisher.  Elevation 1450m above sea level. For more information, please visit – Kosciuszko National Park Local Alerts

Visit Live Traffic Reports NSW for more Road & Traffic information

Fit snow chains where other cars can see and avoid you, usually off to side of road or in clearly marked snow chain fitting bays on Alpine roads.

Fit hoop with small hook and small chain to inside of tyre. Connect first link onto small hook.

The inside hoop should sit evenly around tyre – the hoop should never touch the road surface when driving.

Pull outer hoop tight and connect chain at bottom on the tightest link possible.

Fit excess chain over tensioning lever, so it does not hit and damage your car or the road surface.
Pull back lever and lock into place with retainer. If you cannot get a tight enough fitting with adjustment on outer hoop, adjust chain length on inner hoop.

The outer hoop should sit evenly on the tyre, and never be in the position to touch the road when driving. Once fitted, move forward one full rotation of the wheel, the chain will loosen, and you should now be able to tighten snow chain an extra one or two links. If travelling for long distance, snow chains should be periodically checked. Once snow chains have been fitted centrally and re-tightened, drive off slowly, using accelerator and brakes gently if needed. Avoid spinning wheels, as chains can break, damaging your car and you will be liable for snow chain replacement fee. Never exceed 30km per hour in snow/ice conditions, as it is important to remember  you are driving in dangerous conditions. If you hear anything hitting against your car, stop immediately and investigate. We accept no responsibility for any damage to your car.

Front Wheel Drive or Rear Wheel Drive?

Fit Snow Chains to the wheels that propel your car. You may need to refer to your owners manual if you are unsure.

When to Fit Snow Chains?

Only fit snow chains when there is snow/ice on the road, or when directed to by police or road and traffic authorities.
Remove snow chains in a safe place off the road, when the road is clear of snow/ice.
Removal is the reverse of the fitting procedures

Procedure of Hiring Snow Chains from Boss Outdoor Sports

When you arrive, our technician will ask you if you know your tire size and dimensions. If not, we will get this for you. It helps to save time if you have this ready at the time of consultation. We will then get the correct size chains to fit your car, give you a good hands on demonstration on how to fit and remove chains and also instruct you how to drive safely with chains on. Always get chains test fitted on your car. If you have any question, please ask.

No responsibility is taken by Margaritta Hire Pty Ltd , Boss Outdoor Sports or any of it’s affiliates or staff for any misconceptions of these instructions.

Helpful Post for First Time Drivers on Snow

If you have never driven in snow and blizzarding conditions, you will be in for a few surprises. Below is a few points to always remember when driving on Alpine roads

• When instructed to by Police or Road personal, pull over in designated chain fitting areas and properly fit chains as instructed by technicians
• Drive at a maximum speed of 35km per hour, giving space to car in front.
• As soon as you have driven onto bitumen again, immediately take chains off car, as driving on bitumen will ruin chains, and you will be required to pay for any broken chains.
• Always drive carefully and to the conditions on slippery snowy roads. Stay alert and remember these basic points and you will have an enjoyable drive through this winter wonderland, and arrive safely with your family and friends