Has anyone used these tire chains?

[stephen9666]

I've never used tire chains, but it just occurred to me that this could be a cheaper alternative to snow tires. Here in Kansas, we only get one or two real snows every winter and a few days of ice.

I've been looking at these on Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000OAX7XI/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER

It would be about $45 to cover all 4 tires. That's on the cheap end for tire chains, but I've never had them before, so I don't want to spend too much.

Opinions?

 

[Bill in Utah]

Cable chains. Work excellent, easier to put on over "real" chains and better ride.

You are not going to go too fast (or should) with any chain on no matter the road conditions.

I carry a set (two) for both the Corolla and Truck even though one wears snows this time of year and the other is a 4x4. If I need them on the truck they go on the front axle.

Bill

 

[Kuato]

With snow only a couple times a year, that's a cost effective way to handle it, if you end up needing them.

I've never used that sort of chain, but know a couple folks that have - with good results.

 

[ARCOgraphite]

I think I'll need 'em tomorrow night

- supposed to get over a foot. Hope my 3 season old firestone winterforce on the Yaris have enough bite left in 'em.

 

[stephen9666]

Well, since I had no experience with them, I didn't know about their limitations.

Max speed 30mph. If I had an in-town only commute, that could work, but I have to drive on the interstate. Even at 30mph, breaking one of the cables seems like it could cause some serious damage.

Well, I'll keep thinking about it. This could be the only winter storm we have this year, so if I make it through the next few days, maybe I won't event need them this year.

 

[rslifkin]

Carrying a set of chains isn't a bad idea. Being that you have a commute they're not ideal for, just keep them in the car, and only put them on if you actually start to need them.

 

[calvin1]

I've heard grumbling about SCC's sizing charts. If you buy a set make sure you practice with them when you first get them. That's always a good idea so you get comfortable with them ahead of time but then you'll also know if they fit.

I carry chains in both the BMW and the Bronco. I've never needed them on the Bronco but they saved my bacon earlier this year in the BMW.

 

[racecougar]

I've used those in the past when I was stuck with just a car as my only means of transportation. They do the job. As previously mentioned, don't plan on going over 30 mph with them.

-Rod