I have been reading about snow chains, and plan to buy some. I am debating between the newer "cable chain" and the "real chain". I drive a 4x4, and have read that having chains on the front tires can damage the front axle or other front parts (not sure what). Is this true?
2006-11-27 18:06:00 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Cars & Transportation ➔ Other - Cars & Transportation
I run a tire store in WASHINGTON STATE and right now is CHAIN SELLIN TIME -sometimes you are required to CARRY them ,and other times you have to USE them.as a rule cables are cheaper and easier to install but not as long lasting -chains run the gamit from $20 cheapie cables to $200 link chains with ICE BARS-regarding front axle use ,most chain mfg recommend chains on all wheels anyway but if you are just using them to "GET OVER THE PASS" @ 25 mph or less then you can get by with 1 set but if you are going to use them longer or faster use the best you can afford as a broken cable or link can do hundreds of dollars in damage to the side of your car in seconds
2006-11-27 19:36:25 · answer #1 · answered by badmts 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've used both. Usually you'll just put them on the rear wheels.
Cables are usually easier to use, especially if you're just using them to get to a safe place. Chains will last longer. Make sure in both cases to follow the directions for snugging them up, or use rubber straps to keep them snug.
I suppose there might be some places that restrict them, but it's certainly not "most" places. If you live in a regular snow zone, it's likely they are required to be carried at certain times of the year.
In any event, use them only to get to a safe place, and stop till the driving situation improves.
Good luck.
2006-11-28 02:20:24 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It can be true if you are driving on a road with no snow on it. I live in Washington and my husband has to use them on his truck in the mountains where there is tons of snow. Just make sure you put the chains on when needed and take them off immediately when you don't and you shouldn't have any problems
2006-11-28 02:16:56 · answer #3 · answered by Ashley L 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
To get the correct and reliable answer, stop by a local tire shop and ask them what they recommend. A number of places will sell you the correct chains and if you do not use them during the winter, you can take them back in the spring for a full refund. They will also show you how to install them correctly so you don't damage the vehicle or yourself. It is worth the stop, believe me.
2006-11-28 02:25:06 · answer #4 · answered by rex_rrracefab 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes it is, just stick with using 4 wheel drive in the snow.
2006-11-28 02:08:07 · answer #5 · answered by super682003 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Before you buy them make sure they are legal to use where you live. In most places it is illegal to have them on your car when driving on public roads.
2006-11-28 02:09:08 · answer #6 · answered by jaws65 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋