Years ago when you bought chains from Grand Auto (now Kragen) The chains came
with a u-shaped piece of bent steel rod w/ the ends bent into a hook.

You would put this u-shaped tool over your tire. Then you would clip the end
on your chains on it with the chains laid out towards the rear. Then drive
forward and the chains practically installed themselves on. A simple and
elegant solution.

BenT
(no wire pun intended)