Cable Chains

[NICKYPOO]

Matt, if you want to move this thread, go right ahead. I was just looking for maximum exposure.

OK. I recently went with more of a highway tire on my truck as opposed to the BFG All Terrains. I got myself in a spot while Christmas tree hunting that made me think about getting some cable chains just in case. The buddy I go with (also fellow Tige owner) is in the same situation. His wife asked me what to buy last night and I had no answer. I've never even put a set of chains on let alone buy some so, I'm starting my research where I usually do, right here. Anyone have any experience with cable chains, good or bad?

[raythompson]

Cable Chains

I used them a couple of times on a 1992 Camry when there was snow and ice on the road. They worked for what I needed. Having used chains in the past the cables were much easier to install, the ride was not nearly as bumpy or noisy and they did not take up much space in the trunk. For use in a place without hard footing underneath I just don't know.

[bfrank]

Stupid question....what are cable chains compared to regular chains? Pictures?

[Carter13]

Stupid question....what are cable chains compared to regular chains? Pictures?

Here ya go. http://www.etrailer.com/Tire-Chains/....html?feed=npn

[Joeprunc]

Getting a jump on X-Mas this year ehhh?

I had an old 2wd pickup I had to put chains on and take off quite a bit! I now have 4wd and will never look back, especially driving on 80 every weekend to go skiing.


Cables:

I had cable chains, they are easier to fit properly, lighter weight, and lower profile (when installed) so they are used on passenger cars. Also due to the cable characteristics they mold to the tire more tightly than chains, and one cable size can be used on a wider range of tire sizes. With that said, they break, either the cable or elasitc cord. They rely on the elastic/rubber cord to keep them tight, if you break that, loose it, or install incorrectly you will lose your cables, or worse yet wrap it around you axle. You see these little cable mines all over why 80 from idiots driving 40 mph with chains.

Chains

Chains are much better for off-roading in snow. Much more durable, especially if you are spinning your wheels to get out of a sticky situation. And provide more traction than cables (but the ride is much rougher if you are on harder packed roads). But it is more difficult to get a set of chains that properly fit your tire, any slack and your tire will spin within the chains. And sizes are usually only available for larger truck tires.

If you have 4wd install the chains on the front wheels and keep it in 4wd. If you are 2wd install in the rear and throttle steer .

I also keep a tow strap, D-rings, a high-lift, and shovel in my truck all winter. I've pulled several people out of ditches & banks on the back roads.

[Dave S]

I would say get chains, and don't skip and buy cheaper chains because they are cheaper(like something at wally world), they will just break prematurally, then the broken pieces will fling along your fenders and destroy your fenders or bedside depending on front or rear application while you are driving and can't stop in time or safely pull over, don't ask me how I know, I just do, lol. :-) If you spend some $$ and buy a good set, they will last a long time.

[bfrank]

Very Cool, I am going to order up a pair of the cable chains today!

[TeamAllen]

Here's what I use for my Sequoia.
http://scc-chain.com/Traction%20Pages/Trac_SZLT.html

You might want to also look at these?
http://scc-chain.com/Traction%20Pages/Trac_SZ8.html

[NICKYPOO]

Here's what I use for my Sequoia.
http://scc-chain.com/Traction%20Pages/Trac_SZLT.html

You might want to also look at these?
http://scc-chain.com/Traction%20Pages/Trac_SZ8.html

I was looking at those. I think I might end up with the Z8's. Where's the best deal oh Might King of the Shoppers, Mr. TA?

[TeamAllen]

I think your tire size is 265/75-16?

It looks like they don't make the Z8 for that size.
http://www.scc-chain.com/Traction%20...app_guide.aspx

Super-Z LT (ZT747) $72 @ Amazon Free Shipping no sales tax.
http://www.amazon.com/Security-Chain.../dp/B000CQ6DK8

Super Z6 (SZ447) $73 @ Amazon Free Shipping no sales tax
http://www.amazon.com/Security-Chain.../dp/B000HZA2ME

[NICKYPOO]

Curious, they do make the Z8 for the 265/75R18 though.

Thanks TA. You da man.