Putting on cables on a Merc GLE450 is surprisingly difficult

UG_Passat · Dec 28, 2020

The rear fender well doesn't have much clearance to put your arms in to connect chains or cables for the rear connection. My forearms got dirty from it.

Helped out a family today....

I don't need to stoop down to the peasants using chains/cables in a CA Caltrans R2 condition. 3PMS tires and AWD.

Driving in snow at big bear by thisistan, on Flickr

JimPghPA · Dec 28, 2020

I have a long piece of insulated 12 gauge solid copper wire in my chain kit to help feed the inside chains. Also I pre-fitted tested them and tied the extra link with a 12 gauge solid bare copper wire so it can not flap around and damage any brake hose or sensor wire.

Also, on The CR-V the chains are easier to put on because they go on the front, and turning the wheel gets part of the wheel out from the wheel well.

Probably will never use the chains. BF Goodrich Advantage T/A Sport with 3PMSF symbol on all 4 and AWD when below 25 MPH on my 2016 Honda CR-V.

UG_Passat · Dec 29, 2020

I didn't get a look at the brand of cable... but the rear attachment was a hook and chain link, which was a PITA to because it was hard to see, and adding I was wearing a mask and it fogged up my glasses.

the closest thing I can find is:
Volt Passenger | Quality Chain Corp

Which the plastic hooks for the tensioner matched the color (SCC cables uses yellow plastic hooks on the tensioner)

Pelican · Dec 29, 2020

NEVER EVER have I heard chains referred to as cable!!

Jetronic · Dec 29, 2020

that's because they are actually cables and not chains in this instance

Rand · Dec 29, 2020

Pelican said:
NEVER EVER have I heard chains referred to as cable!!

then you must not get out much. or didnt look at the link in the post
Their are CABLE chains.

most common type for cars where regular chains can damage due to low clearance.

pezzy84 · Dec 29, 2020

Rand said:
then you must not get out much. or didnt look at the link in the post
Their are CABLE chains.

most common type for cars where regular chains can damage due to low clearance.

If I am remembering correctly regular chains are not allowed in California and you have to use the cables, I may be remembering incorrectly but this from back in '02-ish driving up to Lake Tahoe for some skiing.

atikovi · Dec 29, 2020

UG_Passat said:
Putting on cables on a Merc GLE450 is surprisingly difficult

Why would you need chains on that 4x4 driving on a plowed road no less? Even that Prius doesn't have them.

Rand · Dec 29, 2020

atikovi said:
Why would you need chains on that 4x4 driving on a plowed road no less? Even that Prius doesn't have them.

chain laws. probably didnt have 3pmsf or winter tires

atikovi · Dec 29, 2020

Don't most 4x4 SUVs have at least all-season tires?

Rand · Dec 29, 2020

atikovi said:
Don't most 4x4 SUVs have at least all-season tires?

please read chain laws.

it varies but in this case I believe its (4x4 or awd) + (all season with 3pmsf or winter tires)
lets you bypass chaining at R2

I'm not sure how many mountainous snow covered roads you have driven on but its not to be taken lightly.
conditions can vary WILDLY in just a few miles.

Gimpy1 · Dec 29, 2020

I wouldn't even know where or how to put chains on a vehicles tire. Not much snow in Dallas, and when we get ice we shut down for a day or 2 then its 70 degrees and sunny.