The chain hog.

• Author: Aulabaugh, Roger W.
• Position: Tool used to repair broken tire chains

Thanks to front-wheel drive, four-wheel drive and studded tires, many drivers today have never had to deal with tire chains. For truck drivers and heavy equipment operators in snow country, however, they are a fact of life. So is the necessity of repairing those chains. The process, once time consuming and arduous, is now easy - if not pleasurable - thanks to the invention of a Kodiak man.

During years as a heavy equipment mechanic, Randy Erickson observed the time and effort spent repairing broken tire chains by the two available methods: a large set of manual chain "pliers," and a heavy hydraulic tool costing about $7,000.

Erickson studied the problem for four years realizing at the start that pneumatics or air pressure-should be the power source of choice for a more efficient chain tool. The 15-pound, $650 Chain Hog is the result. It is a great hit with the men who have used it, and it's being assembled in Kodiak of the best "Made in America" materials.

"I'm using components of the highest quality all manufactured in the U.S.," Erickson emphasized. "The parts are shipped to Kodiak and assembled in a small shop here."

When a patent search turned up a 1979 patent of a similar concept, Erickson acted quickly.

"My partner in Rockland Corporation, Mike Anderson, and I decided that we had to buy that original patent. Despite the fact that my tool had numerous additional safety features, that other patent was just too close."

Erickson encourages others to pursue their dreams and ideas but with a couple of caveats.

"Anyone contemplating going into a similar venture needs to realize how tough it can be on a relationship. Be...