Snow chains/cables recommendations?

[TacoMoFo]

I live in CA and the snow season is about to begin. Mountain roads to the ski resorts sometimes require snow chains and I am clueless whether I should get chains, cables or socks for my 2025 Tacoma OR. What are the pros and cons of each? Also, how will I know if the traction device I choose will fit my 35 x 12.5 R17 tires? The specs on some of the chains I've seen so far don't provide tire fitment info. Thanks in advance for everyone's help.

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[Brent@ANParts]

Oftentimes those requirements are for non-4x4 vehicles, but I don't know CA specifically. My old truck had winter tires all around and it was a beast in the snow. Had no trouble going through the pass.

 

[ixo]

I live in CA, and will swear by snow socks. I was very hesitant, because they looked so flimsy, but they actually work, and were the easiest to put on and take off. This was for a sedan I had previously, but yeah I'm hoping they aren't required for my new tacoma. If they are, I'll be getting a set of socks.

Probably something like these:

say they fit my 285/70/17s:

EDIT: looks like the 4XLarge's are your size:

 

[Sagebrush]

Mountain roads to the ski resorts sometimes require snow chains

Six-bits says a 4 x 4 is exempt. Installing chains is a pain, and if they loosen up, they can severely damage your truck.

 

[TacoMoFo]

Six-bits says a 4 x 4 is exempt. Installing chains is a pain, and if they loosen up, they can severely damage your truck.

From the CHP webite...

 

[TacoMoFo]

From the CHP webite...

 

[Sagebrush]

From the CHP webite...

So, you have to have them in the truck, not running them, correct?

 

[Droid]

Would not try to fit anything bigger than a sock on 35x12.5 unless you can clear 37x13.5. There's no more space available.

 

[Airborne]

Hmmm, so living in the Catskill mountains all my life relying on 4 wheel drive, i have never used chains or socks and ive traveled the snowy new england weather with no need for chains or socks…a good all terrain tire, understanding how to properly use your 4 wheel drive system, and knowing 4 wheel drive doesnt make you bullit proof and drive like a asshole when it snows will help you get to your destination..but learning how to operate your truck in snow is important and proper tires…..im 60 and endured many blizzards and deep snow, I think the biggest thing is common sense and not thinking you are bullit proof on the road, i see it every winter,
drive safe
David

 

[bitflogger]

Hmmm, so living in the Catskill mountains all my life relying on 4 wheel drive, i have never used chains or socks and ive traveled the snowy new england weather with no need for chains or socks…a good all terrain tire, understanding how to properly use your 4 wheel drive system, and knowing 4 wheel drive doesnt make you bullit proof and drive like a asshole when it snows will help you get to your destination..but learning how to operate your truck in snow is important and proper tires…..im 60 and endured many blizzards and deep snow, I think the biggest thing is common sense and not thinking you are bullit proof on the road, i see it every winter,
drive safe
David

Sagacity is required for all driving. 3PMSF rated tires and chains still do what good driving cannot so you're right and wrong with that outlook.

Two good reminders for me are we have a pair of same Outback one with 3PMSF and one with top rated all-season tires, and ski area crew plus mountain passes. There is no comparison. Actual use between the two cars shows that up 30% better stopping. I've had to do work calls in storms when I could avoid pile ups others could not. At the ski area where identical diesel UTVs will have and not have chains shows a same sort of advantage.

If you have not had 3PMSF tires I can better understand the point. I know people who've thought no need and then bought the new era year-round 3PMSF tires. They really notice the difference.

 

[cammck]

I have used Peerless tire chains (peerless.com) before on a GMC Canyon and have bought the same for my tacoma. I would suggest that whatever product you choose run through at least one or more test fit(s) before you actually need to use them.

 

[Dirt]

I've chained up my 4x4 a number of times when hunting in the back country in snow/winter conditions. Our tire stores have chain displays for different kinds of chains, mounting, size of chain, securing excess if you don't fit them exactly, etc. They can give you good advice about installing the chains so you don't gouge your side walls, or tear up your break lines, fender wells, etc. I'm old now and don't need log truck chains for my pickup any more, so good quality lighter chains work for my purposes - which are to have in the rig when chains are required on all but 4x4 vehicles (I haven't used them in years.). If you do need them, drive slowly! Higher speeds will cause them to break and that's when lots of damage can happen.

 

[Dirt]

So, you have to have them in the truck, not running them, correct?

Most of the states I'm familiar with, when running the mountain peak, snow flake rated tires on your all wheel drive and 4x4 passenger vehicles only require that you carry chains in areas when chains are required - except of course when chains are required on all vehicles.

 

[Sagebrush]

Most of the states I'm familiar with,

Interesting. In Idaho, it's okay to be an idiot. The only legal thing with tires is the date when you have to pull studded tires.

 

[MT-Taco]

With 35 inch tires clearance is already on the tight side, chains-will most likely cause damage, you might get by with cables? Socks would be the safest bet.

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