Advice needed! Heading up to Tahoe.

I've never been asked by either CHP or Caltran during R2 conditions if I'm actually carrying "Tire Traction Devices", maybe our trucks are so badass that they know we don't need it...but all jokes aside does anyone actually carry them? If so let us know; I go to Tahoe quite frequently during the winter, this year we've had awesome snow for skiing. I would like to keep some Tire Traction Devices (besides chains or cables) in my rig just in case.
Thanks,

 

I bought a set of z chains off craigslist years ago for dirt cheap for R2 conditions. They've never checked but did asked/checked if im 4x4 equipped. Never had a problem. Hell, the z chains are brand new wrapped in plastic in its carrying case.

 

Check Turo for a rental. I got a TRD offroad for a trip to vail a few weeks back.

 

Sound advice.
So much snow at lower elevations.

 

OP: put on your chains BEFORE the checkpoint. Don’t be that guy. Just get chains that are the right size for your tires and put them on your REAR wheels!

BEGIN RANT:

I’m in CA all month for work. It’s awful. Too many people, soooooo many terrible drivers.

I drove from SAC-Reno this PM I-80 and was so frustrated with all the rigs going 30 MPH in the left lane. Chains on, terrified to inch out of the way.

I don’t think anyone who knowingly travels into legitimate 4wd zones should do so on a regular basis w/ a 2wd rig.

I was astounded with the amout of trucks / bro-dozers chaining up before the commie-fornia inspection station.

You bought a truck. Do truck stuff or get the hell out of the way.

 

Just be aware. Modern trucks come with tires/wheels much wider than years ago. Many chains will not clear your suspension with factory tires/wheels. Some guys pick up a set of cheap steel wheels and mount narrow tires on them when using chains. You need to shop carefully and get some designed to work with our truck, and if you have bigger than standard tires it may be impossible.

 

I've seen the lifted bro-dozer's chaining up because their trucks are for looks and not for function. Even heard the truck in front of me either break their chain or had it loose banging on their fender at every rotation. Same guys that don't use the turn outs when having 3-5 vehicles behind them.

 

I recommend you don’t go 50.

 

I’ve seen lots of 4x4’s with big mud tires in the ditch because they “did truck stuff” and didn’t use chains.

The r2 condition controls exist for a reason. It’s to get the majority of the public to their intended destination as quickly and safely as possible. Sometimes that might slow YOU down. That’s ok, you aren’t special.

 

You still up here?

 

CHP South Lake Tahoe says on Facebook travel up there is not recommended today. Lots of road closures.

 

Are you at the academy? 4wp is the last place I'd go looking for chains, you'll have much better luck at an auto parts store. Honestly though, I'd just take your family up to Napa and visit some wineries. It's all fun and games til you're stuck for the better part of a day, or worse

 

I bet you're pleasant to hang out with.

 

Les Schwab usually has them or any other tire store. Drive up 80 instead.

 

Thanks Everyone! Family wants to see snow. Will take them to Colfax. Tried to rent a AWD but no luck all gone. Any cool spots in Colfax? You guys are the best, thanks for looking out and the advice.

 

Wouldn’t recommend any further than Colfax. Now it says eastbound is being held because people can’t maintain traction over donner summit

 

Agreed that it's not a great weekend to come up. Roads are a mess and there is tons of holiday weekend traffic. If you do come up, 80 to colfax should be the least clusterfucked unless they keep 80 closed over the pass because then tons of people will end up doing the same thing you are trying to do.

In a 2wd I wouldn't venture far off the highway, even with chains, if you're not used to driving in the snow (there will be enough traffic on 80 that you'll be able to get help if needed).

I carry them. It is the law and while they don't generally ask if you have them for your 4wd at the chain check, they will ask when you are stuck in a ditch.

Get actual chains, not cables, and you will have no need for other traction devices and you'll save $$$.