On 20/11/2012 20:11, polygonum wrote:
I live in a very hilly area - and, though we live off a decent quality
tarmac road, we can get effectively cut off quite easily. Year before
last (IIRC) we were unable to drive out for about three days. The level
roads were mostly passable but the slopes were impossible. So, in my
deep ignorance of these matters, I have been contemplating getting some
snow chains.

Really only think I might need them for extremely local use so certainly
not worth spending very much. Hence Lidl's latest has appeal:

http://www.lidl.co.uk/cps/rde/xchg/l...ndex_36482.htm

Am I barking thinking they might help in changing the drive from
impossible to manageable?

I tend to the view that, if I am ever going to need snow chains, I am
going to need a good pair. I have Stop and Go Compact NT chains in my
car. They are relatively simple to fit and remove and, being
self-adjusting, you don't need to stop and re-tension the chains after
driving for a bit. Of course, I hope the winter tyres, which go on this
weekend, will mean I don't need the chains.

Colin Bignell