This is for a 2000 Subaru Outback.
My understanding of the difference between 4WD and AWD is that 4WD is supplying power constantly to all 4 wheels and AWD is computer-controlled, supplying power to 2 to 4 wheels, as needed. If I were to put only two chains on an AWD, is that even advisable and if so, which two tires should they go on?
2006-11-22 17:48:38 · 7 answers · asked by pianodirt 2 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Other - Cars & Transportation
ALL 4 OR NOTHING
the increase in the diameter of the tire with chains will throw off steering angle - if the rear tires have a greater diameter the front will have slightly more pressure on them therefore changing steering angle - your tires will wear irregularlly and steering effort could be changed making navigating on slippery or snowy roads unfamiliar to your current driving habits. not what u need on a snowy road.
an all wheel drive van i recently put a front axle in (dodge) blew after 200 miles. i showed the customer he needed to have all 4 tires replaced because the manufacturer required (4 tires equal wear same size no more than .25 inch diameter difference in all 4 tires). the customer said no thats rediculous (thought i was trying to screw him). the axle overheated and melted out the drain plug (plastic) and all of the fluid came out - of course the customer drove it till it died and paid for another axle plus 4 tires.
the good news is he came back to me for the repair..$$$
i hope this helps u.
p.s he still drives the van today and is a regular customer.
2006-11-23 05:37:26 · answer #1 · answered by real mechanic 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Check the law for your state--you may not be required to have chains on a 4WD vehicle if you have snowtires.
Otherwise, you can do just be one set on any drive axle, but do the back. Do all four if you're willing to spring for two sets.
2006-11-23 01:59:56 · answer #2 · answered by EQ 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I am speculating on this answer.. but... I think all four.. because the system is controlled by the computer as it senses slippage. if you only have chains on one end or the other it might drive the puter nuts.. check your owners manual. It could be programmed to have chains on one end ..usually all wheel drive is biased to the front wheels first..
2006-11-23 01:53:01 · answer #3 · answered by the_buccaru 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
you can put chains on all 4 if u want but for just 2 do the rear tires
2006-11-23 01:51:39 · answer #4 · answered by amsoldier69 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Even if it's just 2-wheel drive, put chains on all 4.
2006-11-23 01:56:14 · answer #5 · answered by actuator 5 · 0⤊ 4⤋
if u have good tires you should not need chains, if you do you shouldn't be out driving.
2006-11-23 01:57:48 · answer #6 · answered by Jon 1 · 1⤊ 2⤋
gee bob maybe 4?
2006-11-23 01:54:01 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋