2wd vs 4wd

Sometimes even 4x4 need chains, correct? I'm driving up to Sacramento over xmas break up through Mammoth/Tahoe instead of the 5. Wondering if I should pack some chains just to be safe.

 

I'm up in Big Bear often so I can speak to that. I haven't been to Mammoth in quite a while, but I imagine the laws are the same. Legally, you need to carry chains with you during the winter months even if you have a 4x4 though I've never actually had to put them on. I believe you are correct that in extreme conditions they may require both four wheel drive and chains on the tires but I'm not sure.

 

Was this the backway from hwy 38? I hate going up Big Bear on the weekends when everybody goes up and not know how to drive in snow. I heard lots of traffic and fender benders up there.
I always take Lucerne Valley to Big Bear.

 

Always carry chains even with 4x4. I'd definitely carry chains to Mammoth. Sometimes they require it even with the snow flake symbol on your tires.

 

Yes, this is the back way (38). I went home that way because it's usually a little faster, although longer, during busy weekends. Plus, I wanted to see how much more snow they had 1500 feet above the valley.

 

Any recommendations on a good pair of chains/cables?

 

The back way 38 loop is more scenic and way less traffic.

 

Legally if you are in a chain control area even with a 4x4 and snow tires you are required to have chains. They typically wont let people on the roads if its to the point of needing chains + 4x4 + snow tires. Needless to say i have a nice quality set of vbar chains that i always carry when i go to mammoth just in case. Never needed em yet, but you know what they say, rather have it and not need them then need em and not have em.


As far as a good set of chains, Security Chain Company.

 

This

 

I like Peerless Auto-trac. If you go this brand and have All-Terrain tires, I suggest you go the next size up their recommendation (265=275). I find it an extremely tight fit with AT tires if you don't go the next size up. Also highly suggest trying them on before actually using them so you can get familiar on how they go on.

 

Yup. I was going down the 38 on Sunday and I just flipped the 4x4 on and was good to go. I do not miss using chains. I always take the 38 because I like the view and using 4x4 in the snow.

 

If it comes down to gas mileage. I had a 08 sr5 2wd and it crushed the mileage per tank compared to my 14 TRD. I could get 400 miles per tank vs 325 on a good week

 

if you are going to be in the snow get 4x4.....so much easier to flip the switch and have traction (get rid of the stock tires of course). I live in tahoe and wouldn't ever buy a 2 wheel drive unless it was strictly a summer toy. I've never had chain control ask to see my chains, but agreed it is a good idea to carry them nov-mar. The people that i've seen effing up the most are the obvious out of town crew, i.e. minivan in middle of road trying to put chains on around blind corner in a whiteout, made my bhole pucker as i proceeded around them into the oncoming lane.

 

Got a 08 Prerunner Off Road. Love it!! Got the 120 hook-up in back and rear diff lock.

 

Congratulations! Love the BSP color.

 

Congrats

 

Get some snow-socks instead!

 

...^^^... The TRD OR, 4x2 .... is a good comprise and the locker works great ... congrats.

 

+10 points!