I guess I can't usechains on my new F150 Screw FX4 XLT, and can only use cables on the rear. Has anyone broke the rules and used chains or cables on the front? I've rarely had to use chains, but sometimes travel in areas that are never plowed. In California, we are required to at least carry chains/cables with 4 wheel drive when chain controls are up. What are you guys using?

 

Usually the requirement to use cable instead of chains is because of clearance issues. I can't imagine that being the issue with an F-150. Maybe with the front tires, but certainly not with the rears.

Either way, we carry cables. They're easier to get on and off, and they are a lot more quiet. They probably last longer as well (that's speculation though).

 

No answer, but I'm following the thread with interest. I had to sign a "tire chain disclosure" that said, "As equipped, this vehicle may not be operated with tire chains, but may accommodate some other types of traction device."

This is the first time I had to sign something like that. I don't have the low profile "sport tires" or anything, just the 17" standard all seasons on a 2WD.

So I'm definitely interested in seeing what recommended alternatives there are.

 

First time I had to sign something like that also. Here is the info from my manual, you may be okay depending on your tire/wheel size. I think the issue is clearance behind the tire, not the wheel well.


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 cables. If you need to use cables, it is recommended that steel wheels (of the same size and specifications) be used, as cables may chip aluminum wheels.
Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and chains:

• If possible, avoid fully loading your vehicle.
• Conventional link type chains may contact and cause damage to the vehicle's wheel house and/or body.
• Do not install chains on the front tires as this may interfere with suspension components.
• Only certain snow cables or chains have been approved by Ford/Lincoln as safe for use on your vehicle with the following tires: 245/70R17, LT245/70R17, 265/70R17 and 265/60R18.
• You should install snow cables or chains that have been rated as SAE Class S.
• Install chains securely, verifying that the chains do not touch any wiring, brake lines, or fuel lines.
• Do not exceed 48 km/h or less if recommended by the chain manufacturer while using snow chains.
• Drive cautiously. If you hear the chains rub or bang against your vehicle, stop and retighten the chains. If this does not work, remove the chains to prevent damage to your vehicle.
• Remove the tire chains when they are no longer needed. Do not use tire chains on dry roads.
• Purchase chains or cables from a manufacturer that clearly labels body to tire dimension restrictions. The snow chains or cables must be mounted in pairs on the rear tires only.

 

I would think that studs are an acceptable alternative.

 

Seems like a good topic to ask the Ford Engineers here on the forum...and then report back.

 

Studded tires are illegal in many states now.

 

I hadn't really thought about it, so I had to ask Google: Ten states prohibit metal-studded snow tires: Alabama, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland (except in five mountainous counties), Minnesota, Mississippi, Texas, and Wisconsin.

Florida, Hawaii, and most of Texas you can ignore. Most of Alabama and Louisiana can be ruled out too, for the most part.
That leaves only five states (well, four and a half) that have the combination of weather and terrain to make traction a real issue.
So, for the OP, studs could still be a viable solution, though admittedly somewhat less practical since they aren't as easily installed and removed as cables.

 

My guess from his handle is that Norcal_flyfisherman has the same disease, er, hobby, that I do, in the same state, and that his needs are similar to mine. Which is to say, a traction solution for "emergency use" only in case I get stuck somewhere in the boonies when it snows, or have to head over a pass where having chains may be required to get somewhere on the other side.

So short term use which would preclude studded tires or similar. I actually kept Go-Claws in my old F-250, as they could be used if I got myself stuck in mud or sand as well as snow. Given the "chain disclosure" thing though, I'm guessing if chains won't clear, neither would the go-claws.

 

Studs are also illegal in many parts of California, including where I live. Don't get me started on California rules...

 

I lived in Minnesota when they changed the rules. They were having issues with people leaving studs on all the time, and it was really ripping up the roads. In reality, when it snowed up there, you only needed traction-enhancement for a few hours before they had it cleared. The road crews always seemed to be "on it" when I lived there.

 

Yeah, they seem to do a decent job up here. We don't have the hills many other states do either. I think it's a different situation in the mountainous regions.

 

I know that I am bringing this thread back from the dead. However, I was ordering chains for my F150 as my camp often gets a good deal of snow.

I ordered a set of mud service chains for the 275/65r18s on my F150. The only clearance issue is the shock, but even these chains cleared that without issue. Titan Chain TC2439 is anyone is looking.

It's a good thing I had them; my camp was snowed in for miles. I even was able to pull out my step son after he ended up burying his GMC up to the head lights.

Also, studded tires are not a substitute for tire chains. They are helpful on ice, but they are not very useful in 12 inches of snow or so.