Snow chains

[expat]

Thought I'd test fit my snow chains to see if they would fit the 275's (previously only used on the 265's). They fitted with plenty of adjustment to spare, so I think these will fit at least 285's maybe even 305's.

Some pix seeing as I went to the trouble of fitting them.

They only fit on the rear

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y93/expatozzie/Snow%20Chains/hannasliders003.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y93/expatozzie/Snow%20Chains/hannasliders005.jpg

On the front they don't clear the A arms sufficiently.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y93/expatozzie/Snow%20Chains/hannasliders017.jpg

[bulldog]

Just an FYI. We fitted snowchains on my buddy's 4Runner while up in Tahoe. The 4Runner can only take chains on the back wheels. There is not enough clearance in the front by the spindle and UCA. Since it shares the front suspension with the FJC, GX, Prado and Taco, they will also be limited to chaisn in the back only.

I originally thought it might be a good idea to get chains front and back for a full time 4WD, but that wont be possible. Not sure if different offset wheels might allow more moving room for the front. Anyway just an FYI.

[Teotwaki]

It also looks as if having rear reservoir shocks could preclude running chains without a lot of wheel offset to add clearance.

[bulldog]

It also looks as if having rear reservoir shocks could preclude running chains without a lot of wheel offset to add clearance.

Good point. Probably something folks will have to check if they are concerned about running chains.

[Dealmaker]

yeah, hindsight is always 20/20 for me :mad: . Actually, I bought the Super Z LT cables, they are very small and prolly shouldn't give me any problems in the back with the Bil 7100's. But I was hoping I could use them in the front, and use my old studded chains in the back. Those studded chains are animals!

http://www.scc-chain.com/Traction%20Pages/Trac_SZLT.html
http://www.scc-chain.com/images/Sidebar_SZLT.gif

Good point. Probably something folks will have to check if they are concerned about running chains.

[expat]

Just an FYI. We fitted snowchains on my buddy's 4Runner while up in Tahoe. The 4Runner can only take chains on the back wheels. There is not enough clearance in the front by the spindle and UCA. Since it shares the front suspension with the FJC, GX, Prado and Taco, they will also be limited to chaisn in the back only.

I originally thought it might be a good idea to get chains front and back for a full time 4WD, but that wont be possible. Not sure if different offset wheels might allow more moving room for the front. Anyway just an FYI.


No kidding.... :spank: http://www.toyota120.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1096

[bulldog]

No kidding.... :spank: http://www.toyota120.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1096

Good catch!!!! :bow:

Maybe I should search better before posting next time :spank:

We actually checked the manual before putting on the chains, and it states rear wheels only. :guitar: Then I ran my hand along the front wheel and quickly remembered the spindle and UCA on the front. Sometimes it pays to RTFM.

[Mikestang]

What is the exact clearance problem in the front? Is it the spindle or the upper a-arm? I'm wondering if someone like me might be able to fit front chains since I have the aftermarket arms and my rims w/4.0" backspacing give me another 0.5" of clearance up there.

[bulldog]

What is the exact clearance problem in the front? Is it the spindle or the upper a-arm? I'm wondering if someone like me might be able to fit front chains since I have the aftermarket arms and my rims w/4.0" backspacing give me another 0.5" of clearance up there.

See Mark's (expat) thread, he has a nice picture of the chain next to the UCA. You might be able to get away with chains on the front as well, since you have moved the tire out quite a bit.

I have been looking at these to get, which might or might not work with aftermarket front wheels.
http://www.flextrax.com/

Given that I noticed no less than 6 chains/cables on the road when I drove back from Tahoe. I guess folks didn't secure their chains/cables properly and just lost them on the road, or drove to fast. At least the plastic tracks are less likely to damage the vehicle.

[JB...]

I have the Super Z LT cables, as well. I got them for the ease of installation. Later, I noticed the Super Z8 on the scc site. They only require 8mm of side space. Looks like they might fit up front.

http://www.scc-chain.com/Traction%20Pages/Trac_SZ8.html

[bulldog]

I have the Super Z LT cables, as well. I got them for the ease of installation. Later, I noticed the Super Z8 on the scc site. They only require 8mm of side space. Looks like they might fit up front.

http://www.scc-chain.com/Traction%20Pages/Trac_SZ8.html

Hmm very good find. I like the non movement installation like the goclaws.

[JB...]

I like the non movement installation like the goclaws.

Yeah, I like the looks of those too.

The next snow run could be a snow chain run. It'd not only be a blast, it would generate some interesting comparison info. Good info on chains seems hard to come by.

[Mikestang]

The next snow run could be a snow chain run. It'd not only be a blast, it would generate some interesting comparison info. Good info on chains seems hard to come by.

That would be really cool. I would like to not use chains and just air down my tires for a comparison of an extreme snow-duty rated tire vs. AT tire w/chains.

Which brings up a question: can you air down w/chains?

[bulldog]

That would be really cool. I would like to not use chains and just air down my tires for a comparison of an extreme snow-duty rated tire vs. AT tire w/chains.

Which brings up a question: can you air down w/chains?

Very good question. I have no idea. Part of me says yes it should work, part says no the tire deformation and chains will likely damage either the chain or the tire.

[Dealmaker]

I don't think I would air down with the chains.

Very good question. I have no idea. Part of me says yes it should work, part says no the tire deformation and chains will likely damage either the chain or the tire.

[JB...]

From what I've seen - I fitted one set each of chains and cables - the sizing gradations of TDs (traction devices) are pretty wide. I don't think there would be any problem with TDs that use an elastic fastening system. TDs that use a rigid system could either be fitted after air down or re-cinched. Airing way down might present a problem.

By the way, I returned these Costco chains (scc) after being unable to fit them. I could fit them with the tire off, but never was able to with the tires on the vehicle. I wasn't willing to move the vehicle to get them on. Someone else, smarter than me :wavey: might be interested. The price is sure right.

http://tinyurl.com/2g7bpr

[expat]

I know with my chains, you cannot lower the air pressure. This would allow too much flex in the tires and the chains would move on the tire.

[Dealmaker]

I'd like to do a snow run if we ever get any more, Jawbone would be great as it seems pretty central to most of us here in So Cal. We can start a new thread if anyone interested, but it may have to be on short notice so we can plan around some snow

...The next snow run could be a snow chain run. It'd not only be a blast, it would generate some interesting comparison info. Good info on chains seems hard to come by.

[bulldog]

I don't think I would air down with the chains.

Yeah, the challenge would be how do keep the chains tight if you air down as the deformation point changes as the tire rotates. I bought a rubber "spider web" with hooks that you hook onto chains to help keep them tight, dunno if that will help if you air down.

SNow gurus what do you think???

[jacal]

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/showthread.php?threadid=24900&highlight=rud+grip

I must be quick:

I have rud grip chains. Rear only due to clearance...also stated in the 4runner manual.

Keep chained tires at full inflation, no questions there.

These are a perfect, tight fit. Comes with easy instructions and carrying case.

J

[Crozhawk]

I found these and thought they might be a cool alternative to chains:

http://offroadrecovery.com/product/FLEX_TRAX

...anyone used them before?

[bulldog]

I haven't used them, but they are definitely what I would get if I needed a set. I just plain old chains for the GX, bought it up in Tahoe and never had to use it.

[expat]

I'd be interested to actually see them in operation. For general on-road conditions with snow and ice coverage - maybe.

But off-road, over branches, rocks etc I would be doubtful they would stand up to the forces/abuse.

I'm skeptical of products that have large amount of "marketing" to sell them.
The use of Pascal's theory looks great..........

[Crozhawk]

The only time I think I would consider them is in snow. I like the idea/design. Offroad however, ....not sure. I think i would first attempt any serious off-road terrain w/ the M/T's, winch and Hi-lift as my primary ammo. Might be nice to have in my little bag-o-truck-goodies though.;)

[expat]

Sorry, I thought you were thinking of these for offroad snow work. (note the link - "Offroad recovery")

I like true chains for this type of work. You don't know what's under the snow on trails and I can't see these type of "chains" being my last resort - which chains usually are.

[bulldog]

As a general note, you can only fit chains on the rear of the 4Runner/FJC/Taco as the spindle/UCA will prevent chains from working on the front.


I guess we should test a set of these and see how they compare to chains. I think these flex trax should be pretty sturdy if you can drive them on the road and not take it off. Tehy will probably not have the lifespan of chains though, probably expire after some years.

Snow run this winter??? :D

[Crozhawk]

I'm going through Ouray and Moab in Jan:poke:

[jbs11]

I think these look pretty cool ;)

http://www.mattracks.com/

[Crozhawk]

I think these look pretty cool ;)

http://www.mattracks.com/

yeah, ..but they're a b1tch when you get a flat!!:jester:

[jbs11]

These look interesting. Nothing on the inside of the wheel at all. Maybe they could even be used on the front? I wonder how they stay on and tight. Almost seems like a gimmick, but RUD is a reputable company though.

http://www.rud.com/en/produkte/schneeketten/llkw/centrax.html

[bulldog]

These look interesting. Nothing on the inside of the wheel at all. Maybe they could even be used on the front? I wonder how they stay on and tight. Almost seems like a gimmick, but RUD is a reputable company though.

http://www.rud.com/en/produkte/schneeketten/llkw/centrax.html

Very interesting, seems like ti needs a bit of spce by the lug nuts.

I still would think about it carefully for the front as they add to the diameter of the tire (read rubbing on mudflap, front fender area).

[Roams001]

Dave...next project....automatic chains.

http://www.onspot.com/marketing_broadband.wvx


:jester:

[Crozhawk]

Dave...next project....automatic chains.

http://www.onspot.com/marketing_broadband.wvx


:jester:


:iagree ok, but we're using your truck!!:D :moon:

[my034runner]

Yeah, the challenge would be how do keep the chains tight if you air down as the deformation point changes as the tire rotates. I bought a rubber "spider web" with hooks that you hook onto chains to help keep them tight, dunno if that will help if you air down.

Snow gurus what do you think???



So, did you get the Go-Claws, or another type of "chain"? :confused:

[Cruiserhead]

i ordered a pair from here- the 'diamond' ones
http://www.tirechain.com/315-75R16.htm

[bulldog]

So, did you get the Go-Claws, or another type of "chain"? :confused:

Nope haven't gotten around to it yet. Need to move the shock resis out of the way first. Besides I don't even know if I need it anymore with nice fat MTs.

[my034runner]

i ordered a pair from here- the 'diamond' ones
http://www.tirechain.com/315-75R16.htm



Yeah, I saw those. I was thinking about the V-bar chains, if I was to buy regular chains. I like the big "cleats" if you will. Can't get traction with these, then you might as well park it.

Also, Bill Burke has the full sets (4 chains) of the Rud chains. $193.00 for all four. But I don't think you can use these on the front either.

http://www.bb4wa.com/articles/Chains.htm

But I like the ease of use and the fact that you could probably run the Go-Claws on the front!:bigok:

[Cruiserhead]

the Rud chains are the same price as the ones I got. I got about $95/pair. I only got 1 pair b/c I'll use them so rarely, just got them for 'emergency' use.

I couldn't justify spending more. However, I plan on hitting some snow so I thought it would be good to have just in case.

I asked about Go Claws and people said they didn't work. I ended up with proven & simple. Note that the Go Claws are not exactly any easier to mount than chains.
I felt that if it's serious enough to stop a locked 4x4 than you would want chains - something to bust thru ice/snow and get grabbing some tarmac.

The GoClaws site says it wont help on ice so... I think it's basically adding bigger rubber lugs for deep snow (like adding AT or MT tires to regular street tires). Maybe I misunderstand the technology but that's what I came away with.

[my034runner]

the Rud chains are the same price as the ones I got. I got about $95/pair. I only got 1 pair b/c I'll use them so rarely, just got them for 'emergency' use.

I couldn't justify spending more. However, I plan on hitting some snow so I thought it would be good to have just in case.

I asked about Go Claws and people said they didn't work. I ended up with proven & simple. Note that the Go Claws are not exactly any easier to mount than chains.
I felt that if it's serious enough to stop a locked 4x4 than you would want chains - something to bust thru ice/snow and get grabbing some tarmac.

The GoClaws site says it wont help on ice so... I think it's basically adding bigger rubber lugs for deep snow (like adding AT or MT tires to regular street tires). Maybe I misunderstand the technology but that's what I came away with.



These are the V-Bar I was talking about, not for street, but for off road, mud/snow. They're a little more than the Diamonds, but damn beefy!! :guns:

http://www.tirechain.com/images/2800large.jpg

http://www.tirechain.com/images/v-barlarge4wor.jpg

http://www.tirechain.com/VBAR.htm
I wonder if the cable style chains would fit the front? :confused:

http://www.tirechain.com/images/cablechain3.jpg

http://www.tirechain.com/CABLE_MOUNTING_INTRUCTIONS.HTM

[Cruiserhead]

I think the V chain pattern decreases the side-sliding issue while the straight chain pattern increases forward traction... i forget the tech but overall, I went for V b/c it's more of a 'street' use I think...

the actual traction - the V-bar style of chain- like you say, is more offroad

my intention was a 'last resort' in serious conditions on the road. So I went w/ the 'diamond' style. I think any chain will be great in the trail.

Makes you want to play in the deep stuff huh Robert?! hehe

[my034runner]

I think the V chain pattern decreases the side-sliding issue while the straight chain pattern increases forward traction... i forget the tech but overall, I went for V b/c it's more of a 'street' use I think...

the actual traction - the V-bar style of chain- like you say, is more off-road

my intention was a 'last resort' in serious conditions on the road. So I went w/ the 'diamond' style. I think any chain will be great in the trail.

Makes you want to play in the deep stuff huh Robert?! hehe



Hehehehe!! Yeah, a little! :jester:

You just said you got the V? I swore a couple of posts ago, you mentioned the Diamond, either way. :wavey:

Has anybody tried the Cable Style chains on the front, like the one I posted?? :confused:

http://www.tirechain.com/images/cablechain3.jpg http://www.tirechain.com/images/cablechain00.jpg


:beer:

[Cruiserhead]

yes the diamond ones- I meant the chains go in a V pattern across the tread of the tire. Not that the links were the V-style... sorry for the confusion

[my034runner]

yes the diamond ones- I meant the chains go in a V pattern across the tread of the tire. Not that the links were the V-style... sorry for the confusion



Oh, okay! :jester:

Any thoughts on those cable chains and the front?? Anyone?? :confused:

[my034runner]

I just ordered a set of V-Bars from Discount Tire. $120.00, same price as tirechain.com, But without the shipping charge!!! :rockon: :wavey:

If I got them from the tirechain.com place, and wanted them next week, ti would have cost an extra $100.00!!! :eek: :eek:

http://www.tirechain.com/images/2800large.jpg


It's snowing up in our mountains right now, and for the next three or four days!! So we're going to have some snow and ice on our Wheelers pass run next weekend!! :guns: :cool1:

[Dealmaker]

I have 'em but haven't put them on the front yet, I'd only try that on off-road use at very low speeds. I have my old studded chains that fit the back, but those look like they'll be awfully close to my Billie reserviors.

I ran my '89 Runner in a few heavy storms with chains on the front back in the day. It was like there wasn't even snow on the ground. Really a great way to go if you can do it problem-free.

...
Has anybody tried the Cable Style chains on the front, like the one I posted?? :confused:

http://www.tirechain.com/images/cablechain3.jpg http://www.tirechain.com/images/cablechain00.jpg


:beer:

[my034runner]

I have 'em but haven't put them on the front yet, I'd only try that on off-road use at very low speeds. I have my old studded chains that fit the back, but those look like they'll be awfully close to my Billie reservoirs.

I ran my '89 Runner in a few heavy storms with chains on the front back in the day. It was like there wasn't even snow on the ground. Really a great way to go if you can do it problem-free.



Well, White guy on a computer, get your ass back up here next weekend, and join us on our 30 truck run!! Mark, and a few others are coming up from LA!! :guitar:
Then you can try your Cable Chains, and see how they work on the front!!! :rockon: I mean sh*t Pierre, you have to take a run with us at some point! I've been in this group since 2005, and haven't once met you, or seen you on one of our trips yet, what gives?????:flipoff: :deadhorse :wavey:

[Dealmaker]

Yeah I know...I've been buried w/work and only managed to get out a couple times the past couple years. In fact I'd like to do a DV trip from Panamint Valley thru Saline and out the north side, or vice versa....or maybe a springtime Mojave Rd. run. I will probably have to head back to LV for business sometime the next month or so.

My wife and kids were in LV last week for 5 days...they skiied up at Charleston a couple times. I couldn't make it since i've been buried alive in foreclosure work.

:beer:

Well, White guy on a computer, get your ass back up here next weekend, and join us on our 30 truck run!! Mark, and a few others are coming up from LA!! :guitar:
Then you can try your Cable Chains, and see how they work on the front!!! :rockon: I mean sh*t, you have to take a run with us at some point! I've been in this group since 2005, and haven't once met you, or seen you on one of our trips yet, what gives?????:flipoff: :deadhorse :wavey:

[my034runner]

Yeah I know...I've been buried w/work and only managed to get out a couple times the past couple years. In fact I'd like to do a DV trip from Panamint Valley thru Saline and out the north side, or vice versa....or maybe a springtime Mojave Rd. run. I will probably have to head back to LV for business sometime the next month or so.

My wife and kids were in LV last week for 5 days...they skied up at Charleston a couple times. I couldn't make it since I've been buried alive in foreclosure work.

:beer:



Then start scheduling now for September and the Mohave Road trip!!! :guns: No excuses with 9 months to plan! :flipoff: :jester:

Next time you know you're going to be up here, let me know, and we can all get together for a Sunday run! :wavey:

[JAM07Sport]

Hehehehe!! Yeah, a little! :jester:

You just said you got the V? I swore a couple of posts ago, you mentioned the Diamond, either way. :wavey:

Has anybody tried the Cable Style chains on the front, like the one I posted?? :confused:

http://www.tirechain.com/images/cablechain3.jpg http://www.tirechain.com/images/cablechain00.jpg


:beer:

They have cable chains that have a X pattern for use on the front of vehicles it helps with steering. I dont know where my shop got them but they got a hole skid and preped all the trucks heading to WV with them. Every one seems to like them. The only problem with V bars is your top speed is around 15-25mph becuase you cant get them tight enough. I make sets up vbar style for tractors and atvs that push snow. It is really easy to make them a set for a 48x18 tire only cost 40$ to make. If you are going to run Vbars use bungee cords to keep them tight you can buy 8in bungee and cross them up. Cables are the way to go for the street I think the manufacture say you can go 45-50mph with them.

[my034runner]

They have cable chains that have a X pattern for use on the front of vehicles it helps with steering. I don't know where my shop got them but they got a hole skid and prepped all the trucks heading to WV with them. Every one seems to like them. The only problem with V bars is your top speed is around 15-25mph because you cant get them tight enough. I make sets up vbar style for tractors and ATVs that push snow. It is really easy to make them a set for a 48x18 tire only cost 40$ to make. If you are going to run Vbars use bungee cords to keep them tight you can buy 8in bungee and cross them up. Cables are the way to go for the street I think the manufacture say you can go 45-50mph with them.




Yeah, it'd be nice to have them on the front too, added traction. But, as far as driving them on the street, don't really care, I live in Las Vegas!!!!! Don't get too much snow that sticks to the ground down here!!! :deadhorse :guns:

These are strictly for Off Road use only!!! Therefore, the V-Bar will be perfect for that!! Dig into the snow and mud!! :rockon:

[JAM07Sport]

Thanks for reminding me it doesnt snow everywhere it was 9 degreese when I went out to change the oil in the 4r this morning.

[my034runner]

Thanks for reminding me it doesn't snow everywhere it was 9 degrees when I went out to change the oil in the 4r this morning.



:jester: :rotflmao: It's raining and 60*, but snowing in the mountains and Freezing!! :cool1:

[DiskDoctr]

Yeah, this thread is old, but wanted to add some info.

I've had the RUD 4X4 (diamond) chains since early 2005 and I use them on the rears mostly, but also add the second pair on the front when needed.

I'm running 265/70 R17 on my 2004 4Runner LTD and don't have clearance issues.

Just to note, the front tires rub slightly when making a sharp turn without chains, so I don't turn sharp with the chains.

I've run in 2 feet plus snow and on ice both offroad, and ice on road.

Just this past year I had about 6.5k on the trailer when the brakes went out and we were hit with a freak ice storm. For about 3 hours everything was glass. It took me nearly 200 yds downhill to get stopped without jackknifing the trailer or sliding off the road.

I put all 4 chains on and then just had to drive slowly because the road is very solid and hard on the chains. I didn't slide a bit and had both forward/back and side to side control.

They come in a nice bag per pair and go in my 4runner at the beginning of the winter weather and stay there until spring.

Here's a link to the long story from some time ago. http://www.yotatech.com/f5/stuck-big-snow-got-chains-long-story-share-yours-90574/

Enjoy the story!

- JC