Wheel Chocks: When To Use Them and How Many You’ll Need
Wheel chocks are an incredibly useful and essential tool for keeping your vehicle in place. Whether you’re parking, loading up your car, or unloading a trailer, wheel chocks can provide additional safety and security. You may be wondering when you should actually use wheel chocks and how many to use when you do.
In this post, we’ll answer these questions and more as we guide you through the basics of wheel chocks and the safety considerations to keep in mind. We’ll also go over the different types of wheel chocks and a few considerations to ensure you purchase the right type for your vehicle.
What Are Wheel Chocks and Why Are They Important?
A wheel chock is a wedge-shaped block or ramp designed to securely hold vehicles in place by preventing them from rolling away. Wheel chocks are essential for workers in any industry that involves service or maintenance on vehicles, including aircrafts and cars. They can be used to secure the wheels of a parked vehicle to prevent movement during maintenance activities such as inflating tires, refueling, and greasing. Wheel chocks are also necessary for securing vehicles when a trailer is attached or detached from a tow vehicle.
Types of Wheel Chocks
Wheel chocks come in a variety of materials, including rubber and steel. Steel wheel chocks are often used on heavier vehicles such as big rigs and construction equipment, while rubber is ideal for smaller vehicles such as cars and motorcycles. For added safety, lightweight aluminum wheel chocks can be chained together or bolted down to further secure a car in place.
Where To Use Wheel Chocks
Wheel chocks should be used on any incline, surface, or environment where your vehicle is at risk of rolling away. This includes parking garages, driveways, asphalt surfaces, and uneven gravel areas. Rubber wheel chocks are especially useful in wet environments since they offer more traction than other materials.
How to Properly Position Wheel Chocks
When using wheel chocks, it is critical to position them correctly for maximum safety and stability. If you use two, they should be placed diagonally opposite each other on both sides of the tire. If you decide to use three, they should be positioned around the perimeter of the tire. The blocks should be placed under the tread to give them a better grip.
Weight Ratings of Wheel Chocks
Wheel chock weight ratings range from 350-3600 pounds depending on the material they’re made from. Remember to choose one suitable for the size and weight of the vehicle you’re trying to control. Smaller cars will require lighter-duty chocks, while heavier-duty trucks will necessitate sturdier models made from steel or aluminum.
How Many Wheel Chocks Do You Need?
Two-wheel chocks are enough for most vehicles, but some trailers require three to ensure maximum stability around all four tires. If more than one axle is present, it’s recommended that you use two sets of two-wheel chocks placed diagonally opposite each other around both axles. This arrangement will help keep them from shifting due to uneven loads during transport or while parked on an incline.
What To Look for When Purchasing Wheel Chocks
When buying wheel chocks, it’s crucial to consider their weight rating, as well as their shape and material. Aluminum models may be more expensive but will last longer and offer maximum strength when holding heavier equipment or trailers on an incline. Rubber models may cost less but should be inspected often for wear, which could decrease their effectiveness over time. It’s also important to check product reviews. You want to ensure your chosen model will stand its ground against even the toughest conditions.
Wheel chocks are essential for vehicle safety and stability, and you must use them correctly. When in doubt, it’s always safer to utilize caution and use more wheel chocks than you think necessary. Make sure to purchase the right type and size for your vehicle, consider the weight rating, and inspect your wheel chocks regularly for signs of wear and tear. By following these simple tips and taking the time to research the best wheel chocks for your needs, you can help ensure a safe and secure ride every time you hit the road.