Chain recommendation

My old chains won't fit my 33s. I normally just use in rear but I would not mind something for the front. Not much room up front.

 

On road or off road use?

You may be able to fit cables up front but I believe the Tacoma owners manual says not to run chains/cables on the front.

Cables will be quieter on road but chains will perform better off road so it really depends on where you intend to use them.

 

OP, if you still have the owner's manual it says something like not to put chains up front. A big problem is a nub cast into the steering knuckle that interferes with the space between the tire and knuckle. But I do it.

I have about a 1.5 inch lift and the largest size tire I have been able to chain without major cutting is 255/75/17 (a 32) but have to either change the wheel offset (ET) by at least 1/2-3/4 inch or use hub spacers of the same, and keep the tire width on the thin side as noted. Even then I have to take off the mud flaps because the tires would hit them on sharp turns.

I have also done it on the 245/75/16 without a lift and that was easier and required no cutting but I still have to use at least another 1/2 inch offset on the wheels.

Class "S" chains or cables as noted above will help with clearance. Otherwise I use the RUD Grip 4x4 chains and really like them for space considerations and ease of putting them on and taking off.

 

This.

Are we talking consistent use for extra traction on icy roads (which id probably recommend studded tires at that point). Or a "shit is sketchy AF / need to get unstuck" situation. I have planned for the later and went with some NASTY V bar chains from Security Chain Company. I have never had to use em (but legally have to carry them if in chain control areas here in CA) and want the best thing to get unstuck/best traction if needed.

 

The plan would be for off road use at home, but I do need something for road use when mandated. I was wondering what Tacoma owner used on route 25 in Colo.

 

FYI in CO:
When the Passenger Vehicle Chain Law is in effect, every vehicle must have chains or an approved alternative traction device.

Traction Law
During winter storms, or when conditions require, CDOT will implement the Passenger Vehicle Traction Law. CDOT can implement the Passenger Vehicle Traction and Chain Laws on any state highway. During a Traction Law, all motorists are required to have EITHER:

1. 4WD or AWD vehicle and 3/16” tread depth
2. Tires with a mud and snow designation (M+S icon) and 3/16” tread depth
3. Winter tires (mountain-snowflake icon) and 3/16” tread depth
4. Tires with an all-weather rating by the manufacturer and 3/16” tread depth
5. Chains or an approved alternative traction device

Bottom line is when you have a 4x4 Tacoma with mountain-snowflake icon or M+S tires you are not required to have chains.
Street/highway tires you may need chains so look at the sidewalls.
Are they still a good idea to carry for ice - yes on the rear wheels. Work in clay mud offroad also but what a mess!
No clearance up front as they will get wrapped up on the UCA ball joint and/or you may rip the brake line off.
Most drivers do not slow down or leave enough room between vehicles and never plan an exit route during situations.

 

My 2009 4wd truck looks like it has 2 inches clearance between front tires and control arms. I have normal size 7" wide wheels and stock tires 245 75 r16. Is that more clearance than standard? Looks like enough space for chains that fit.

 

Honestly, I have had chains for 20 years but never used them on the front. You would have to put them on and do a full turn each way. Then check clearance on you ball joint and brake line.