Tire Chain Recommendations and Sources?

Hello, I have 265/75/R16’s on my truck and I need to buy tire chains for it. I’d like the double lug (v-bar) type but was wondering if anyone has found a good source for medium-weight chains (I won’t be off-roading using them on dirt and rocks like some if you guys do!) that are only going to be used occasionally?

I don’t want to get too light of a set, nor cables because from prior experience they break too easily on trucks. Any suggestions? Please also include sources if you have any good ones for online purchasing.
Thank you!

 

I've been through many winter's where we got 100 inches of snow annually. Spend most weekends at a ski resort 90 miles from our home. Not once have I needed chains. Since you mentioned you won't be going off road, do you think chain's are necessary? I've seen 2wd trucks using chains around here, but never 4wd that I can remember.

 

He's in Mojave, CA and some roads require chains.

 

We have mountain passes that require chains on vehicles that are not 4wd. I assume that's the same.

 

Maybe thats what it is, I've been out of state for quite some time now. I just remember putting chains on 4wd going up mountains.

Now I'm in NY where no one can use chains so figure that one out... Its also illegal to pull someone out of a ditch so logic isn't really written into law

 

Usually chains fit a range of similar tire sizes. Look online for the size range you need. Retailers let you enter your tires size into a search. If you don't want to buy new, craigslist is a good source. It helps to know what size you're looking for before browsing CL. I got a set of four brand new V-bar chains on craigslist for $75. The guy let me try them on before I handed over the money.

Good snow chains are very nice to have when you need them. I have a 1/4 mile long uphill driveway. It's nice to be able to get in and out before I get a chance to have it plowed.

If you're looking for a brand recommendation, LaClede is what I have. They seem strong enough

lacledechain.com/

 

I’m a huge fan of cam lock chains from Les schwab. They were actually the first purchase I made for my Tacoma.

 

That's where mine came from too (originally). Les Schwab sells LaClede V-bar chains.

 

California Highway Patrol can be pretty invasive regarding chains. When they flip those signs down in the mountains "Chains Required" you do not necessarily have to have them on but you better have a set with you.

 

I've never actually NEEDED chains on a 4WD but I have had a CHP require me to put them on when he claimed the road was icy. When I got to the next checkpoint, the officer their laughed at me and asked why I had chains on. Here in California, you're required to carry chains when driving in snowy conditions even with 4WD. And I have definitely had them ask if I had chains. So, never needed them, but once required to put them on. Always carry them.

 

Be prepared to go 2mph

 

I'll also add that when I had a 2WD Toyota, I used chains almost every weekend going to X-C ski in the San Gabriel Mtns. and Los Padres here in Southern California. I always used cable chains for two reasons. One is that they don't tear up your tires. They're easier and faster to put on, and three, it was no problem to go 30-40 mph when needed. Ok, that's three reasons. And never once did I have one break, but I never ever drove them on dry pavement either.

 

I usually carry LaClede cables and have only used them once on a Pre-Runner. From what I gather, in CA you are required to carry them even if 4WD. I have seen the signs that require chains on 4WD unless you have snow rated tires. If you have the snowflake symbol on your tires, you do not need to use the chains but still required to carry them.

 

Hey all,

Sorry I didn’t respond earlier. Family emergency has me tied up, but I appreciate everyone’s responses to me needing chains. Message in short is I do need them for roads that are now closed and will remain unplowed this winter, so I need a good set to use just in case, so I was hoping to find out the best places to get good ones.

Will read and reply to suggestions here soon. Take care.

 

So are cables better or chains?

 

Cables are about 35% less effective for traction and can break easier than chains (I was involved with a lawsuit over them and had CHP test info supporting my case). Cables are good for cars that have low fender clearance from the tires, but thats about it.

 

Yeah, I need them. I have a project going this winter on a closed road and its on the north side of a mountain so ice is an issue. We have a front end loader for a plow and it compacts what is left on the road- I should post pics from the last time I worked there, it was pretty gnarly. Not deep snow, just enough that even 4wds get bogged pushing through it over the ice.

 

I will be up higher, but yeah, the suprise winter storms overwhelm Caltrans on the high desert a lot, too. But 4wd usually is all you need.

 

You can’t help others? Tow truck union I bet!

 

Sorry if this is off topic, but here is WA State DOT's hierarchy of winter rules. Even 4x4 vehicles are required to carry chains in some situations.