Getting ready to travel to the sierras next week, they just got a ton of snow....The manual says to use snow cables, but not chains due to clearance issues, but I am a stubborn old fart who is more comfortable with chains. This morning a co-worker told me that cables don't last very long, and given that Hwy. 395 currently has about 185 miles that require chains, that has me worried.
I've got a 2006 XLT 4x4 running 265/70 17's...is anybody else out there running the same tire size with chains successfully? thanks.
Oh, I searched....

 

this is what im running, when i do run them.

RUD Grip 4x4 chains.
http://tirechaindealer.com/grip.php

they feature a cable on the inside of the tire. they clear the brake lines and calipers with no problems whatsoever even on full lock.

heres a few pic on my truck, sorry i dont have any on the inside.

 

those are nice. I think chains work best but god they are hard on tires.... If your going to be doing some hwy driving I would go with cables or maybe even something like those fabric covers that seem to work awesome.
ask this guy for a lift
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nTDNL...eature=related

 

I run chains on mine, but I would never run them for that long unless there was alot of snow on the ground, I chained up this morning to pull the trailer out of the cabin with over 10 inches of fresh snow on the ground.

 

Bucky, what size of tires are you running?

 

Every time I go to Tahoe and it says chains are required, as long as you have 4x4 and quality snow/mud tires they will usually let you through. I've never had a problem without chains, just take it slow and you'll be fine. They keep hwy 395 and hwy 80 pretty well plowed.

This storm is supposed to go through at least Friday though and they got hammered this weekend. Lots of fresh powder!

 

265/70/17

 

The text below is from the 2006 F150 owner's manual. Since you have 265/70/17's, it looks like you are OKAY with chains?

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The tires on your vehicle have all weather treads to provide traction in rain and snow. However, in some climates, you may need to use snow tires and chains. If you need to use chains, it is recommended that steel wheels (of the same size and specifications) be used, as chains may chip aluminum wheels.

Note: Do not place chains on the following tires sizes: P265/60R18, P275/65R18, LT275/65R18, P275/55R20, and P275/45R22.

Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and chains:

• Use only SAE Class S chains.

• Install chains securely, verifying that the chains do not touch any wiring, brake lines or fuel lines.

• Drive cautiously. If you hear the chains rub or bang against your vehicle, stop and re-tighten the chains. If this does not work, remove the chains to prevent damage to your vehicle.

• If possible, avoid fully loading your vehicle.

• Remove the tire chains when they are no longer needed. Do not use tire chains on dry roads.

• The suspension insulation and bumpers will help prevent vehicle damage. Do not remove these components from your vehicle when using snow tires and chains.

 

Bingo - Chains are not needed for a 1/2 ton 4x4. I have never been anywhere in my truck where I couldnt get through snow with good tires. Been through drifts as high as my truck - no chains. Even throttle and good steering and you go anywhere you want as long as snow depth is under 1' deep. More than that and chains wont help.

BUT if legally required - well the gubment aint the brightest

 

California has 3 types of chain controls.

1. Chains or snow tires required.
2. Chains required except on 4 wheel drives with snow tires on all 4 wheels.
3. Chains required, no exceptions.

Under all 3 controls, chains MUST be carried. Snow tires must be branded M+S and/or have the snowflake and mountain logos. All-season highway tires do not comply. Cables comply with chain laws. At this time, Caltrans is not showing any roads with type 3 controls.

 

Just for peace of mind, I always have chains in my truck -- and they have come in handy numerous times.

 

Thanks for all of your responses, quite helpful. I've just got "P" tires, so I do need chains if the road goes R1.

 

In that case, I'd use cables. Driving that many miles with link chains is going to shake you apart. There's a LOT of R1's right now. I think legally you only have to put them on the rear. Of course, also putting a set on the front will help with steering and stopping.

http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/roadinfo/Hourly