Snow Chain Recommendations...?

[gman72]

Hey fellas, I picked up a set of Thule XB16 snow chains (Thule*-*Thule XB-16). They fit fine on the rear but I can't run 'em on the front due to clearance to the upper control arm.

I'm running 265x70x17 Michelins which leave < 1/2" clearance to the uca. Anybody recommendations for a low profile snow chain so I can pick up a second set for the front?

 

[zonianbrat]

Hey fellas, I picked up a set of Thule XB16 snow chains (Thule*-*Thule XB-16). They fit fine on the rear but I can't run 'em on the front due to clearance to the upper control arm.

I'm running 265x70x17 Michelins which leave < 1/2" clearance to the uca. Anybody recommendations for a low profile snow chain so I can pick up a second set for the front?

There might not be many actual chains that you can fit on the front without worry of rubbing or damage. You might be able to get a pair of cable chains to put up front. I noticed your in LA, are you going to need them there? I worked in the oil field doing geo consulting on oil rigs and I would have to drive some seriously jacked up roads consisting of deep mud or snow or both. I kept one really aggressive set of v-bar chains for the rear and i made it places full size trucks couldnt. So unless your planning on doing some trails that are pretty much not meant to be driven on I dont see why you would need to have two sets of chains.

 

[gman72]

Yeah, live in L.A. but doing a lot more high sierra hunting trips lately, and a lot of back country forestry service roads. But looking at your experience looks like I should be fine with just rears. I've never done snow much in my t4r but was always told with 4x4 to chain up the front. I figured that my clearance issue was more to do with the larger than stock tires, but now looking at the manual it even says not to chain front...

Thanks for the input!

 

[zonianbrat]

Anytime! Having chains on the front would definitely be ideal since they are steering wheels. If you are still at all worried I would save my money and install a winch.

 

[BlackWorksInc]

If you do decide to run chains, your best bet will be cable style units that hug the sidewall tightly to prevent rubbing on the UCA.

 

[Synister]

The owners manual recommends ONLY putting chains on the rear

"Snow chain installation"
Observe the following precautions when installing and removing chains.
l Install and remove tire chains in a safe location.
l Install tire chains on the rear tires only. Do not install tire chains on the front tires.
l Install tire chains following the instructions provided in the accompanying instructions.