Winter's coming and figured I would look in to getting some tire chains. Haven't had any in a long time. Wondering if there have been any improvements or changes? You guys have any recommendations? Rarely need them, but when you do.....

 

I prefer the actual 'tire chains' or 'snow chains'. They tend to have the best bite on the road.

Now 'traction cables' are the newer version. They're metal cables with steel sleeves wrapped around the cables. Installation of them is much the same as with regular chains and the lever-lock clamping setup on each cable makes installation even easier.

Before you invest in any cables/chains, make sure you currently have the size tire you are wanting to stay with. Buying chains/cables now, then buying bigger tires later, then buying another set of chains/cables to fit the bigger tires = wasted money on the first set of chains/cables.

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In looking at your truck pictures. Where did you get those 3rd mirrors at? How about the under back bumper lights?

 

bneafus,

The diamond pattern with square links are supposed to give the best traction and lateral stability in all conditions.

Here are some links
www.rudchain.com/snow/index.htm
www.pewagchain.com/products.php
http://www.scc-chain.com/Traction%20...Trac_home.html
http://tirechain.com/Default.htm

Hope this helps

 

Blackhat is correct. I have a set of the square links. I have had every chain known to man ( cable chains, v-bar ice breaker chains, regular semi truck chains cut down and now the square links) I have ran them all anf love the square they seem to have the best ride for the amount of traction. Good luck and be safe

 

Thanks Guys...Really appreciate the input!!

 

Tire chains...WE used the all the time delivering NEWSPAPERS TO CARRIERS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT. We didnt have many 4x4's...so chains were used. Heavy duty regular steal chains are the best traction. Cable chains are easier to put on. REMEMBER THOUGH. IF you have a 4x4 you have to put chains on all 4 wheels...to be safe. If you have to put just two chains on. They HAVE TO BE ON THE REAR of a 4x4. This sounds dumb...but....I have seen chains on the front.......ONLY...desaster

 

You weren't scared by that white display that Mother Nature put on for us here in Denver, were you??! Got to love Denver weather. 6'ish inches of snow yesterday, mid 50's today, and 70'ish tomorrow.


On a more serious note...

If you're looking at something to use once in a blue moon, I'd suggest cable chains (rather oxymoronic now, isn't it?!?). They are cheaper, take a little less space to store, and, as others have stated, are a tad easier to put on. In a nutshell, they tend to be pretty decent for an emergency situation, but not they are not the best for traction and extended use.

If you're looking for something that will see a bit more use--like heading up to the mountains to go skiing a couple times through the season--I'd suggest sticking with an actual chain.

Square links provide some of the best traction, from my experience. The chain sets equipped with V-bars do pretty good, but I don't think it was enough of an improvement to warrant the extra cost. And, as blackhat stated, the diamond shaped patterns--rather than traditional straight cross-links--seem to be the best compromise between forward & lateral traction.

 

thanks for the info guys. I am getting ready to take another trip from VA to AK, up the ALCAN hiway. Never done it in the winter and remember many signs that said "CHAINS REQUIRED". Your input is always helpful

 

Les Schwabb has a deal If you don't use your passenger/light truck chains, return them for a full refund by April 1, 2007.

Sipe them while your at it............

 

Tire chain video..................

 

Hey Buddy, Although I obviously believe in being prepared, the "Chians Required" Signs don't always mean you have to chain up...Here in Colorado, Good snow or off road tires will suffice. They are required on 18 wheelers and passenger vehicles w/o adequate snow tires.

And thanks for the Les Schwabb stuff...Wish they were in CO. Very helpful!! Those look so much easier then the old circular rubber with hooks tighteners, and I'm sure more effective!!
Brian

 

I generaly only use chains for plowing. I have tried them all. I have found the V-Bar chains give me the best traction on ice and they give better milage before breaking. The majority of the wear in the early to mid life is on the V-bars themselves, then getting into wearing the chain links. Good luck on the trip to AK.

 

Thanks guys, I have been away from real snow for a few years and I am getting nervous for no real reason. I look forward to the trip. I just waiting for the job offer now. I am excited to take my 250 across the country and the Great White North eh...

 

Excellent responses. Thanks for the links too. I will look into the square chain but hopefully won't have to use them. I would hate to have a 4X4 and get stuck somewhere.