Any idea why manual says chains 5mm?

[kaitlyn2004]

The 4runner manual, among other notices, says the chain diameter should not exceed 5mm. I've never seen this mentioned for other cars - mainly it seems to be about internal clearance issues... which is why I think there are "Class S" chains designed for minimal clearance?

Use the correct tire chain size when mounting the tire chains.
Chain size is regulated for each tire size.
Side chain
(0.20 in. [5 mm] in diameter)
Cross chain
(0.20 in. [5 mm] in diameter)

I was looking at these:
2521Q - Light Truck Diamond Back Square Link (Rubber Adjuster Style) | Quality Chain Corp

They come in a "lightweight" 3.7mm version as well, but surely given the option the 5.5mm is the "better" option, but also technically exceeds the 5mm stated.

Thoughts?

 

[fkheath]

I think 5mm is the diameter of the "wire" used to make each loop in the chain. That is almost a 1/4". Pretty hefty.

 

[Drobs]

It has to do with clearance of the stock oem tire and the components (upper control arm, etc) behind the tire and wheel well.

I found that if you put a lift on a vehicle it will allow greater clearance for bigger sizes of chains.

Here's a 4.5mm diamond chain that ought to work:
P265/70R17, P265/70 17 TUV 4.5mm Diamond Tire Chains - TireChain.com

They also come in 3.8mm
265/70R17LT, 265/70 17LT TUV Diamond Tire Chains set of 2 - TireChain.com

I don't currently have snow chains for my 4Runner as I'm not locked in on my tire size. I still want to go bigger and think buying chains now would be a waste.

I do have diamond style chains for my 15 year old Nissan Frontier and have used them.