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fer starters - THIS -- is what ya DON'T want to happen to YOU! [ youtube series of videos of snowchains nightmare experience
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Yelp reviews of Snowbird Tire chains
01/13/2011
Good morning Thomas,
Thanks again for making what would normally be an unpleasant experience
with chains
educational and humorous. It was a delight to meet such an
excellent teacher and to learn so much from you in so
short a time. The
few dollars that I might have saved by going elsewhere are rendered
completely insignificant
by the quality of the knowledge you imparted to
me and the confidence I now have that not only do the chains fit
perfectly,
but that I know how to get them on and off easily and properly.
Many thanks, John
11/30/10
Hi Thomas! I arrived back in San Diego (safely) yesterday after spending a week in the Sierras around Lake Tahoe.The
weather was very cold and snowy. This was great for skiers andsnowboarders but difficult for drivers! Thanks to your "instructions"
Iwas able to install chains, including installing chains near DaggettSummit in the middle of a snow storm with 80 mile an
hour ridgegusts!! My ten year old daughter was worried about the "snow-nadoes"seemingly tornadoe like wind whipped snow!!
We were able to navigatethe frozen roads with your help!! Also, because of your "teachings" Iwas able to help a "father-daughter"
set of travellers with theirchains! The father had recent hand surgery and couldnt do the chains! I was able to help them
on their way because of you! Thanks again! Dave
11/29/10
Thomas,
We enter yosemite on Saturday after 2 inches of snow. We did not need the chains to get in. Snowed about a foot on Saturday
nite, another 6 inches on Sunday another 6 inches on Monday and maybe 2 inches on tuesday. Snowed in!!!! I put chains on the
towed jeep and they worked great. Thursday I worked the chains on the big rv and then off we went out of the park. Its 35
miles from campground to entrance of yosemite park and then another 5 miles to the snow line. Slow and steady we got out of
the park. Mostly ice on the ground. Trailers without chains slide off the road. The chains worked great and your instructions
excellent!,,
Richard
04/27/10
Hi Thomas,
Our family started planning unexpectedly another Yosemite trip for later. And, I realized that I didn't let you
know how our last Yosemite drive went, especially since we were expecting snow.
Our drive up was actually pretty simple. The roads were dry and clear - no snow or rain. But, there were
still patches of snow from their last storm. And, it was very cold. Then, it rained for the rest of the week
which ultimately led to...yep...snow! On our last day, we got about 6 inches of snow! Chains were required
on all roads, especially the main highway 41. And, surprisingly, we saw people stuck at the hotel because
they had no chains. For us, no problem. We dug our car out from the snow. I put the chains on - no
problem.
(I even yelled "Hiyah!") And, we drove out. Down the hill, we saw a line of cars with drivers putting their
chains on to drive up. And, some drivers looked totally lost like they've never even seen a snow chain before!
That experience confirmed that I made the right decision of seeking your help and services. I was confidcent
that we were properly equipped and knowledgeable on how to use the chains. That was worth so much to me
because my whole family was in our car. Their safety is everthing.
Anyway, I'll definitely bring the chains on any winter drive where there may be snow. And, I've recommended
you to so many friends.
So, thank you again for taking care of us. We appreciate you so much!
Thanks,
Mike
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03/03/10
We had a great time up in Big
Bear this past weekend!! We definitely
needed chains all day Saturday as it was a constant downpour of snow
and/or
sleet! I got them on without a problem in just a few minutes.
Thank you thank you for all your help and kindness! I KNOW
it wouldn't
have been nearly so easy or simple if I hadn't had my lesson from you!
Ruth S
12/30/09
Thomas,
Thank you very much
for your attention to detail and outstanding customer service. Nobody else ever mentioned moving the brake cable, which sounds
like it could have been disastrous. It was well worth the drive, and I’m happy to have met you. If anyone asks about
chains or cables, you can be sure I’ll direct them to you. We just got home from Big Bear, where there was plenty of
snow for skiing, but the roads were completely dry! I know if I had not made the trip to you, there would have been a storm
and I would have been turned around at some checkpoint. At least now, we have them for the next trip. No regrets at all.
Take good care, and I’ll see you down the road.
Best regards,
Ron
Celebrating 25 Years
of "Giving Hope Wings"
www.angelflightwest.org
02/08/10
Hi Thomas,I was able to put your good training
to use yesterday going up to Big Bear. The chains worked like a champ. Same for my other friends who got chains
for their suburban at 3:00. I did see one of your other customers up there. It appeared to be the guy in the large
white truck who had the appointment after me. He was right behind me going up the mountain and seemed to be a
bit impatient with my 25 mph max speed. When the road opened up to 2 lanes he cruised right by. About 20 minutes
later I passed him on the side of the road messing with his chains. Just thought I would let you know in case he calls
to complain. Anyways I felt very confident with travelling in brutal conditions due to my training. Thanks again!!
it's interesting to note here -- that the above
message forewarned me about the fella who was " a bit impatient" w the 25mph speed -- drove much faster - damaged his truck
and his chains -- and then SWORE to me that he hadn't driven over 25mph and wanted *me* to pay for the damage to his truck
that HE caused -- too bad -- ya never know -- I certainly appreciated the "heads up" thankee friend, ya saved me some grief.
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12/17/09
It was an honor to meet you,
Thomas. I can't tell you how much I appreciate the detailed instruction on how to put the chains on and take them off.
I
also have to thank you for the tip on Phil's. Best ribs I've ever had - and considering I've spent a great deal of time in
Georgia and the Carolinas, that's saying something. My wife says when she moves out here from Florida (long story, the short
version of which is that we're temporarily bicoastal), she wants to go to Phil's and hopes you and your wife will join us.
Anyway,
thanks again for the excellent service. When I saw that you're a bird guy, I knew I had come to the right place.
Al
12/07/09
Tom:
I just wanted to say thank you
for the wonderful service you provided me when I came to buy cables for my 1999 Cadillac Escalade. I was going to go to Wal-mart
store but a good friend of mine recommended you because you make sure that the cables fit properly on the tire. I’m
glad I did because the chart was wrong. I actually needed two sizes smaller for the tire size that I have on my Escalade.
You also took the time to make sure that I knew how to put them on. You also provided gloves, a small tarp and typed instructions
on how to put them on. I’m very grateful to you sir. Again… thank you so much for your service, knowledge, and
kindness that you provided. You will come highly recommended by me. Mike from Fallbrook
To: thomas@snowtraction.com
Subject: A Million Thanks
Date: Thu, 14 Feb 2008 22:42:57 -0600
Thomas,
I had the most wonderful day. One would think that a freak snow storm that
caught our county by surprise and required me to buy and put on chains just to get home would not qualify as such. I
can honestly say that today has been one of the best and most wondrous days in my memory. You are part of my wonderful
day and I can't thank you enough.
When I left Julian this morning I had no idea what was in store for me.
It has already been an eventful 2008 and today was no exception. One of the events of this year was that I had to buy
a new car last weekend. My car buying experience turned out so much better than I had anticipated.
You saw the results, I have a beautiful Dodge Caliber to show for it. A vehicle I did not think I could afford.
I found this one by "chance" at an incredible price and had a great buying experience at Budget Car Sales in El Cajon.
Next, I found car insurance for almost half of what AAA and others had quoted me with Wawanesa. Amazing "chance" number
two. I worked with the dealership on financing and was promised an interest rate equal to my credit union.
Tuesday evening I was told they couldn't give me that rate and it would be 3% more. Today I went to my bank
and found they are having a special on auto loans for one week beginning today and my interest rate would actually be
.25% less than they originally promised. Bonus!!! With that I was able to get the same payment and extend my warranty
for 6 more years. AWESOME!!! I waltzed in to the dealership with a check for payment in full. After that
I began my trek home. Having a new car meant I was no longer equipped for snow which I learned was falling in the mountains
quite heavily. I needed snow chains to get home to my daughter and my dog. That's when I was guided to you by
an employee at Kragen near the Parkway Plaza Mall. My heart was telling me to follow along, so I did.
My
experience with you was fabulous. You are a very special person. The world is a much better place with you in
it. But wait....there's more.
After leaving your establishment I followed my heart some more. It
told me just start up the hill, that everything would be ok. I was blessed to witness some once in a lifetime
moments on that drive. First, I saw snow beginning at Highway 67 and Poway Road. What??? Continuing up 67 into
Ramona the sights took my breath away and brought tears to my eyes. I have lived in Julian all my life, except for the
20 years in the middle, I've been home for the last 10. When I came around the last bend before Mussey Grade I was astounded.
Snow covered the hills all the way down to Ramona, the sun was just breaking through the clouds to the west, it was sunset.
The most beautiful colors of pink and blue a human being could ever dream of lit the snow covered hillsides. It was
so beautiful, there aren't words.
I stopped in Ramona to fill up with gas. My thought was that I
may have to wait for a while to make it up the mountain and I wanted to be warm. When I reached the eastern side of
Ramona a sign read "Hwy 78 closed at Old Julian Highway" so I said to myself, ok...we'll see when we get there.
I continued on. I got to Old Julian Highway the sign read " 4X4 or chains required". This is where you come
in. I was elated!!! I had to put on chains! I paused for a brief moment while I questioned my sanity,
decided I really was happy and jumped right in. I was done in 10 minutes flat. I threw my hands in the air and
yelled!!! Just like you told me to, only I would have done it even if you hadn't told me to because I was so proud of myself
and so thankful to have had the opportunity to have met you.
Just as I was finishing my celebration dance
in my wool skirt and open shoes standing in the slush and snow on the roadside, a woman walked up to me wringing her
hands and asking if I could help her please....I said I would be happy to, but, as luck would have it, they decided to
open the road as far as Santa Ysabel to everyone. That was just far enough ahead for her to get where she needed to go.
I was worried about driving on pavement with the cables on so I just took it slowly and was glad I had them many times.
When I got home this evening I called my parents and told them about my day. My dad will be getting in
touch with you as he has several pairs of snow chains from various vehicles he would like to talk with you about.
I too have my old set of cables that I will donate to your most worthy of causes after I check to see if they might fit my
moms car. I am coming back down next Tuesday to get my cruise control taken care of and will give you a call to arrange
to drop them off.
I know I don't have to encourage you to keep up the good work. It is obvious this is
a labor of love for you. I hope I can return the favor many times over as a result of your infectious gift. I
will take this experience with me and look forward to each and every chance I have to pass the kindness and wisdom that you
extended to me today along to another person in this world.
Thank you again and again,
Renee
Only those who are asleep make no mistakes.
-INGVAR KAMPRAD, founder of IKEA.
I have an R63 for which I purchased and have used snow cables
on all 4 wheels for my ski trips in Northern California. When I contacted Mercedes for their position regarding snow chains
on this vehicle they said absolutely not. However, I contacted a gentleman who specializes in snow chains and difficult fitment
applications and he was able to set me up without any problems. Thomas is located in San Diego but to ensure and guarantee
proper fit, he will not sell unless you are able to bring the vehicle to him in person. I was so concerned about chain fitment
that I had the salesperson at the San Diego dealer where I purchased my vehicle bring my R63 to Thomas for fitment confirmation
before I ever saw the vehicle in person! The salesperson even had the chains in their carrying bag in the vehicle when I went
in to do the paperwork and took delivery! If snow cables will fit all four wheels of
my vehicle which has 265-R45-20 tires, it should not be a problem for any of the other R Models. True, a 4matic vehicle can
handle some pretty nasty snow conditions without chains, but having snowcables gives me a little more peace of mind. Here is Thomas' website for those who might be interested: snowtraction.com |
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12/07/04
Tom, here's a true story: after getting "chains 101" from you on Thursday, I took the family up to Big Bear
the next day. We decided to leave early on Sun due to an approaching snow storm, and only made it about 5 miles out
of town before having to pull over to chain up. Thx to your expert instruction, was chained up in less then 5 min, and
in the process, was approached by 2 other motorists, both of whom had chains like mine, but had no idea how to install
them.
I helped them both in just a few minutes, and told them the story of how just the day before you turned me into an
expert. One of them, a Los Angeles police officer, said to tell you "thanks a million!"
regards Jon
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SNOW TRACTION fittin & installing Testimonials |
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Snowtraction Testimonials -- ALL vehicles fitted by the San Diego Highwayman
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Monday 28January 2008
Hi Tom -- Thank you for the great instruction. We had to use the chains, and I impressed the
heck out of my wife by whipping those things on in under 5 minutes!
It was great to meet you, and I will be passing
along your information to other similarly mechanically challanged people.
Tom
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01/04/08
Hey
Tom,
I was smiling all the way back to Oceanside after meeting you.
Thank you so much for the enlightening
and fun experience buying snow chains. I'm not hesitant about encountering snowy conditions in the mountains now.
What
a valuable service you provide - reminds me of olden days when people took time with each other instead of now where everything
is about mass selling and store employees don't have a clue about the products.
You are definitely unique and I always
appreciate meeting another "alien." :) Makes the world more interesting.
Keep on doing what you're doing! Whooooo.......haaaaa!
Many
blessings.
Suzane
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12/18/07
Hi there,
Thank you for
your fun and humorous instruction, it’s an awesome service you provide! I know I didn’t quite get the hayaaaaaa
down very good last night on that last clip but I was laughing and that kind of zaps the strength. I’m sure I’ll
get it down and that last clip on quickly if needed as I’ll be out in the cold and snow and most likely will not be
laughing and having the giggles J
The best to you, your wife and of course Shela. I hope you have a very Merry
Christmas a grand New Year!
Thanks again,
Jennifer
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01/15/07
Thanks
Tom, I used the chains for Many Miles this weekend. Lots of ice.
Worked great. Storage bag, gloves and tarp all came in
handy. I did loose the blocks as they shot off into the san bernadino forest while driving off of them....at least they are
bidegradable!
Couldn't help laughing at myself as I remembered your specific instructions and steps putting them on and
taking them off.
Even caught myself grunting as I put on the rubber band!
You provide a great service to So. Cal drivers.
Keep up the great work.
Jim
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01/02/07
Happy New Year Tom,
Just
wanted to let you know that I sucessfully put on and took off my new chains two times on the way to Portland last week. The
onlookers were so impressed with my speed (and kong-fu yelling technique) that I was asked to help them put their chains on.
Thank
you again& I will recommend you to anyone in need of chains!
Take care,
Amanda
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24
March 2006
Dear Thomas,
I am so happy I decided to call you for my snowchain needs a few weeks ago. I watched a lot
of people struggling in the slush as I quickly put mine on trouble free. Your attention to detail is unsurpassed!
Thanks,
Mike
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03/06/06
Tom,
The
trip to your house was well worth it; the chains went on easily and worked like a charm. We stopped to chain up about three
miles before the CalTrans roadblock. in those three miles there were three wrecks, two were 4WD SUVs, one a roll-over and
another that slammed into a big rig that was chaining up.
Also, there were a lot of people stopping to adjust or deal
with ill-fitting chains.
The ones you sold us went on and stayed on all weekend until I-80 was dry. My wife, who is
really not familar with treacherous winter driving conditions, felt safe the whole time. I like to think it was due to my
driving but I think the chains played a large part.
Thanks again and I'll be glad to send people your way for chains.
Chris
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02/23/2006 08:17 AM
snowwhite
Posts: 25
Joined:
11/03/2005
I've only posted a couple of times, but have seen numerous comments regarding The Highwayman and his chain
service.
Since the b/f and I will be heading up next week, I thought I'd pay him a visit to hook up my Explorer. I had
memories of growing up, my dad in the freezing snow, yelling "these stupid f****ing chains". I wanted to avoid reliving these
memories as much as possible.
I have to say The Highwayman is one of the kindest, most generous, and seemingly genuine
people I have ever met. First off, he invites you to his house for a chain fitting. He takes the time to explain how things
work, then gets you down with the tires to make sure you know what you're doing. He wants his customers to feel confidant
that they can install chains themselves.
I am so fortunate that I found The Highwayman on the forum and that I live down
the freeway from him. I will definately recomend his services any chance I get. I wanted to publicly say "Thank You" for all
the help.
**The b/f says if Sheila needs a babysitter or home, she's welcome anytime.
02/23/2006 12:03 PM
The
Highwayman
You're making it hard on me girl! -- now I have to live up to your praise
Thanks
Was a pleasure
to be of service
Shela says "woof aroorooo woof arf grr" [ translation -- "sorry, I wuff my highwayman " ]
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02/05/06
Thomas,
Thank
YOU for delivering exactly what I needed. I always like to deal with a pro and I am convinced that no one knows more about
chains [ and cables ] than you do. I enjoyed meeting you and I enjoyed the visit and I am really happy with what you sold
me.
I just hope that if my wife and son are stranded on a road somewhere, someone like you is the one who stops to
help. [ my greatest compliment ]
Thanks again,
Tom Sweeney
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01/23/06
Hey
Highwayman,
I hope all is well and I just wanted to let you know how my trip to Mammoth went last weekend. We arrived without
incident and with no snow on the ground Friday, but by the time we woke up there was a steady snowfall. When the storm finally
passed on Sunday, 25 inches of snow had fallen and my small 2WD Ranger was buried. However, with the help of your cables and
the sandbags you gave me, I was able to pull out of that snow drift with little trouble. Thanks again for your help and good
luck to you in the future.
Cheers,
Jeremiah
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01/12/06
Hi
Thomas,
I spent one full week on the internet calling around to get snow cables for my car. Out of 100s of websites and
phones calls, you were the most nicest and educated person I encountered. Since I had a 10" lift and 38" tires, I thought
I would never find cables for my car. I drove out 31/2 hours each way to your facility and found it worth while because not
only you had the cables for my tires but you gave me so many tips, tricks, and supplies to make my job easier on the snow.
This type of business and customer service is very hard to find. I wanted to Thank you for your service and will highly recommend
you to all my friends and family.
Sincerely,
Brian Safdari
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12/23/05
Thomas,
I
have to say the experience was outstanding. You made it pleasurable,educational, and interesting. It definitely shows that
you enjoy what your doing and you give us, the novice all of the information we may need to make chains an enjoyable and benefical
experience, or at least as enjoyable as it can be to put chains on in the snow and cold.
I also want to compliment
your web site, communication, ect... It gives just about all of the information.
Thanks for everything and I will definitely
recommend your services to everyone that will listen.
Thanks
Mike
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1/10/05
Thank
you very much for everything...everything went fine... we appreciate what you did for us...my brother-in-law bought his own
chains and had a miserable time with a flat tire and loosened brake lines that had to be fixed...so we saw how awful it could
have been...once again we appreciate your great customer service we will be happy to send anyone we know who needs chains
to you :-)
Alice
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SnowChains101 - Special Thanks to
The Highwayman
10/25/2004 10:11 AM
ThirtySomething
As a longtime "lurker" on this forum, I firstly would
like to say a kind hello to everyone. I've very much enjoyed reading so many of the posts over the past year or so as they've
proven most helpful and educational.
But, I really would like to extend a special thanks to The Highwayman. After having
read the advice of so many here on the Forum, I met with him over the weekend for SnowChains101. It was the best decision
I could possibly make to ensure being safe and secure as the winter driving season approaches. He is as professional, courteous,
friendly and genuine as they come. I had no snow chain experience whatsoever, and needed to learn installation/removal from
scratch. Thus, it was really a pleasure to gain some of his insights and skill, and to be finally confident in handling chains
from start to finish.
I continue to second the notion(s) expressed here previously that anyone who is either a) unsure
on chains for their vehicle b) unsure on installation/removal c) just interested in tips of the trade to make the trip to
visit The Highwayman. You will not be disappointed.
Thanks so much, Highwayman. I am forever grateful.
Best
to all.
ThirtySomething
Chair 17 Productions
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Klimmer
My
family and I will have to second that thanks:-)) The Highwayman set up my truck and RV with cables this past week and we are
ready! Great products, great experience, and you leave knowing exactly what to do---highly recommend him.
It was great
learning about The Highwayman through this forum. Who says forums aren't useful? And to think we were just 10 minutes from
where he lives. Doh!
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Took Saturday morning
and went down to El Cajon to see the Highwayman. It was a beautiful drive down the five, past Trails where the waves were
firing and I was without my stick It was all better though when I got to meet Highwayman and his lovely wife, his great dog.
After a full tour of the rescue rig and a bit of coffee, he got me my Z-cables, showed me how to put 'em on and some tips
that make it a much less painful chore. Spent a bit of time shooting the breeze and then had to return for a dinner for my
mission.
Anyhow, it was worth every mile and dollar to see you Highway and I look forward to seeing you again! Give
Shelia a pat on the head for me.
-- Llama
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Snowchains nightmare story here you DON'T want to happen to YOU!
YouTube video clips of what kin happen when yer chains DON'T fit --
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