Snow Traction Ideas

I'm in Central Oregon right now but grew up in the Seattle area. I guess your snow conditions are a bit different than what I'm used to (wet cement slush.) I've skied Big Sky and your snow is alot dryer...easier to drive on. Be safe and watch out for those slednecks!

 

You want to improve highway-speed driveability in winter conditions, which is not the same thing as turning your truck into the ultimate icy driveway plow truck.

For safe, predictable highway handling you want:

1. 200-300 lbs directly over the rear axle
2. Dedicated winter tires with a soft tread compound and open tread pattern
3. The ability to use your right foot sparingly on both the gas and brake


Your truck can rule to the trails and unplowed logging roads, but it's not designed to have the best handling dynamics on slippery surfaces at 50+ mph. Remember that and modulate your driving accordingly. You are at an inherent disadvantage compared with a Subaru Legacy, Audi A4, or even one of those "F550 guys" with 1000 lbs in the back.

 

I understand your difficulty, and I don't know how much it costs to stud tires but after the tire shop removes, studs, and re-installs the tires you might be better off with a dedicated snow tire and save your current tires for the summer months.

Watch a couple of the videos at tirerack
http://www.tirerack.com/videos/index.jsp?video=68&tab=winter#viewAll

They compare studded vs snow tires. It might change your mind on what you decide.

I run Bridgestone Blizzaks on all my vehicles, 2 2wd trucks 1 fwd car. Blizzaks can be pricey, some of the lower priced alternatives might fit your budget better. It's easiest if you can mount these tires on dedicated wheels.