Air Down or Chains?

Previously, using 265/70r16 or 265/75r16 AT tires, in snow when 4WD was not enough, I would chain up (the back).
Have switched to 255/85r16. In a similar situation would it be better to chain up the back, or air it down? (I plan to air down the front.)
Thank you!

 

chains will take you places that airing down won't...

 

Nothing beats chains. Do you still have space with the taller tires?

 

In the back yes. Even with the more narrow tire I don't think I'll clear the UCAs in the front. Had to use spacers to clear the JBAs.

 

Being that you are in Colorado, I would ALWAYS carry a set of chains. I like cable chains as they are light and easy to install. If you are doing a lot of mountain driving, carry an extra set for the front. I drove semi in the mountains for several years in the winter, and used Campbell heavy chains on my drive axles and a cable chain on front wheel and rear of trailer and never got stuck or had and issues. stay safe

 

Most truck tires are designed to thrown stuff out of the treads so airing down will be a waste. Some modern snow labeled tires are designed to load up with snow and get traction that way. Chain up the back and forget the front leave them aired up. You are correct no clearance for chains in front and you could rip the brake line off.

 

I carry chains year round. Funny thing is I've had to use them more in mud than snow. Clearance issues in the front with regular chains. Thank you for the suggestion for cable chains. That may work in the front.

 

Chain is for ice, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use it on snow. Sometime below the snow is ice. But it’s hard to tell when to air down or when to chain up due to unknown condition. Air down a bit combine with chain? Dedicated studded snow tires work best. Anyway, just drive slow and be safe.