2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Tire chains and 285/75 tires, ok or bad idea?

[jdkenyon]

I am looking to get some new tires this fall and wanted up go up to the 285's but just realized there may not be enough clearance to run tire chains. Anyone have experience with this? Am I asking for trouble or will it be fine if I keep them tight?.



Thanks

Josh

 

[DennyDay]

285 Tire chains

Why not - I found a set at Pep Boys that fit good with spring adjusters. Sized for 12-16. 5 tires.



Denny

 

[WKener]

I have no problem running chains on my truck. Plenty of clearance for me (255/85/16)

 

[illflem]

Get your tires siped and you will hardly ever need chains.

http://www.can4x4.com/articles/siping.html

 

[jdkenyon]

It sounds like I will be fine with this combo. I have never needed chains yet, but worry about traveling in the winter and being required to put a set on. Thanks for the advise.



Josh

 

[Rotty]

illflem: Get your tires siped and you will hardly ever need chains.



Yes, get them sipped, but be extremely careful not the have them over siped. In my case, more is NOT better. I had my tires done at les schwab, they over did it and especially when I tow heavy loads, my tires chunck off.



Make sure you get a good set of real truck chains, as these work the best and last the longest. Stay away from cables as they do not last very long (if you don't believe me, look along side of any roadway after a snow storm and count how many broken cable to chains you see). Keep your speed down when running them, I usually only run 20-25mph max, but them I can run forever. Also, get some chain tightners (or bungie cords) to keep the chains tight and from slapping around. Practice installing them now, because when it is snowing/icey, that is a heck of a time to try and figure out how to put them on and get them tight.

If you have a 4x4 then consider 2 full sets (front and back) as this will give maximum traction, but this issue has been fully discussed on this board earlier, try looking under the archives.

 

[WKener]

Both Illflem and Rotty have good points. Siping will eliminate almost all need for the chains, especially in 4 wheel drive, but they won't cut it in severe heavy snow. And I remember the first time I put on my chains, I did it exactly as Rotty has warned not to. It was barely above zero, and the snow was coming down an inch an hour (pretty decent rate), but the real kicker was that it was coming down sideways. That hurt.