This invention relates to a device for providing traction to the powered wheels of a vehicle. The device is useful for extricating a vehicle which has become stuck on a slippery surface, such as ice, snow, or mud, as well as for assisting a vehicle which is to be driven on such surfaces.
Previously, there have been many devices which were adapted to be attached to the powered wheels of a vehicle to increase its traction. Such devices included conventional chains and many cleated devices. One of the problems with such past devices was that they usually included means for pulling the cleats tightly against the tire. This tight arrangement caused the cleats to constantly rub against and to ultimately destroy the tire.
Another of the problems with such past devices was that the cleats were often fixed to or urged against the cleat holder. This tight arrangement also caused the cleats to constantly rub against and to ultimately destroy the tire.
Another of the problems with such past devices was that the devices were difficult or impossible to mount onto the tires unless the tires were lifted above the driving surface. Obviously, such lifting is not possible when the vehicle is stuck in a rut.
Another of the problems with many such past devices was they they required two cleat holders, one on the outside and one on the inside of the tire. This caused the person installing the device to have to reach around to the inner side of the tire (under the vehicle) and to have to work on apparatus elements that he could not see.
The object of this invention is to overcome all of the foregoing problems by providing a tire traction device that is maintained loose on the tire and loose on the cleat holder; that does not destroy the tire; that does not require the tire to be lifted off the ground; and that does not require a second cleat holder to be used on the inner side of the tire. It is another object of this device to achieve the foregoing object while simultaneously providing the vehicle with greatly increased traction at an inexpensive price.