Snow Chains vs. Cables?

[foursquare]

I seem to remember reading either in this or the FB forum that Cables and not Chains were required?

However im not seeing anything definitive now that I track that info back. The truck's manual (2WD 6' XLT 2020) mentions snow 'chains' so wondering if this is a typo, or whether either are fine.

I'm assuming snow chains are a bit more durable than cables?

thanks, AF

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[bloosh]

The online manual for 2019 that I downloaded says this (p286).

Only fit snow chains to the following
specified tires:
• 255/70 R16 111T.
• 255/65 R17 110T.
• 265/65 R17 112T.
• 265/60 R18 110T.
• LT265/65 R17 109T.
Only use S-Class snow chains, 0.6 in
(15 mm) chain links.
Only use manual tensioning chains. Do not
use self-tensioning chains.

I will say at least for my old car the cable chains I had were so much easier to put on and worked just as well for me.

 

[Jon Olivier]

I've only ever used cables. A few years ago, we took my wife's 2WD Rav4 to Sequoia National Park during the Winter. With the cables on the drive wheels, we traveled on un-plowed roads with fresh snow without any issues.

Edit: I've noticed in some documentation that "chains" are mentioned, but the term covers any "traction" device such as cables and socks.

 

[Obijack]

Do you live in an area the frequently snows/road ice?

 

[foursquare]

Do you live in an area the frequently snows/road ice?

Nope, they are only needed every once in a while when taking a road trip up to ski.

 

[Trigganometry]

I know not everywhere but some states have banned chains and studded tires. The cables as far as I know are acceptable everywhere but only during inclement weather conditions.

 

[rang19ca]

When I bought my Ranger, the dealer specifically said "Do Not use chains, only cables."

 

[D Fresh]

If you drive a 2wd Ranger where you get any amount of snow I would highly suggest dedicated winter tires over chains or cables.

More initial investment. But much better results, and much easier to deal with.

For your infrequent use. Cables are fine.

 

[ch47dmechanic]

I'm assuming you live in the Emeryville in the Bay Area which means you're likely going to the same Sierra locations that I go to. In that case, you'll likely get through with just your stock M+S tires. I've yet to have the CHP turn me around. That said, I do carry Auto Socks just in case as technically there is a Caltrans condition where even if you have snow tires, they'll still require you to carry (and present evidence of, on request) a traction-adding tool. This could be chains, cables or in my case, Auto Socks. They're approved in California anyway and take a couple minutes to install. I feel bad watching my friends take forever to install their chains/cables in the cold while I just roll the socks on and hop back in the warm truck....ok, maybe it's a little fun waiting on them in the warmth... ?

https://autosock.us/

 

[Frenchy]

Something that would do better than chains for the fact that you have less chance of damage to the vehicle is AutoSock. I learned about them last year and to my understanding they are AWESOME!!!

Here is a link to the website
https://autosock.com/

 

[ch47dmechanic]

Something that would do better than chains for the fact that you have less chance of damage to the vehicle is AutoSock. I learned about them last year and to my understanding they are AWESOME!!!

Here is a link to the website
https://autosock.com/

Jinx! ?

 

[Frenchy]

Jinx! ?

Lol I dodnt even realize you mentioned them as well.

 

[frmtrk]

I'm assuming snow chains are a bit more durable than cables?

thanks, AF

Cables are fine if you don’t plan on using them, but if you want to drive on unplowed roads get real chains— I like the diamondback style, rather than the ladder style chains, they help prevent lateral slides/oversteer better.

I made the mistake of cheaping out and getting cable chains twice, both times they failed after only a few uses. They’ll get you of trouble, but make sure to inspect them afterwards for crimps/frays. I haven’t used the sock style, but if they work as advertised they’re probably a better choice for emergencies.

 

[AverageWhiteGuy]

Something that would do better than chains for the fact that you have less chance of damage to the vehicle is AutoSock. I learned about them last year and to my understanding they are AWESOME!!!

Here is a link to the website
https://autosock.com/

Socks rip easily if you go on any snowy roads with rocks. In oregon, we dump tons of rocks on the snow; instead of rock salt.

I agree that snow tires would be a better bet. I think there's some sorta rating where they need the "three peaks" for true snow tire rating. These are like... $850 from costco for my truck, before install/tpms costs

Prolly another $800 if I buy new wheels too :/

 

[VAMike]

I agree that snow tires would be a better bet. I think there's some sorta rating where they need the "three peaks" for true snow tire rating.

The three peaks mean that the manufacturer paid to certify that the tire meets the most exacting standards for a snow tire that they could imagine in the 1960s. It's necessary, but not sufficient, to determine whether you're getting a good snow tire.

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