Tire Chains on 4X4's

Fish mojo · 01-07-2004, 09:56 AM

Front or back wheels? I've seen rigs both ways.

wootersen · 01-07-2004, 09:57 AM

There was a whole thread on this in LIG about a week ago. Chain the front wheels. That's where your steering is.

Fish mojo · 01-07-2004, 09:58 AM

Thanks, I missed that one.

Fish Hawg · 01-07-2004, 09:59 AM

Front Wheels, So you can steer

Reel Fun Fish'n · 01-07-2004, 09:59 AM

if you only have 1 set of chains , chain the fronts and lock in the 4 wheel drive.
But you should chain all 4 wheels if you want the vehicle to be at its maximum.

Steelie Ben · 01-07-2004, 10:02 AM

I gotta disagree with you all, depending on the vehicle you drive. If its a truck I would chain the rear so it doesn't walk on you but if you have an SUV with some wieght back there I would chain the front. Just my .02
SB

Tilla · 01-07-2004, 10:03 AM

Unless...........you have one of the newer full time 4wd cars. Read the manual.

Firedog · 01-07-2004, 03:47 PM

I have and Ford F-350 extended cab with 255/85's on it and chains fit fine. Have them on it all the way around. If I didn't have two sets I would put them on the front since that is where the weight is (Diesel) and for steering purposes.

24 on/ 48 off · 01-07-2004, 11:16 PM

Yes! Great information! I just pulled out my manual last night. It says, "DO NOT PUT CHAINS ON THE FRONT TIRES". There is not enough clearance to the fender.

Additionally, If you have a Chevy Silverado 1/2 ton 4x4 with 265/75r/16 tires, do not put chains on the rig. There is not enough clearnace on the back wheel wells, either.

--spud-- :smile:

Mello-Yello · 01-07-2004, 11:37 PM

Yep. On my Ford F250 I had to put some spacers on the front bumber AND cut the lower, inside corners off to get adequate clearance.

Another consideration, aside from drive traction, is stopping. Front disc brakes love to lock up in icy conditions, long before the rear does. Hence another reason to go to the front (if you can) with chains.

chummer · 01-08-2004, 08:04 AM

If you have only 1 set of chains, older 4x4's are chained up front, newer 4x4's are chained in the rear. These are manufacturer's recommendations that are not found in your owner's manual.

Hoosier Daddy · 01-08-2004, 09:23 AM

Wouldn't having chains on the rear help you stop better? If the front stops first, the back can slide out.

NEUTRON · 01-08-2004, 09:47 AM

I have an f-350 Crew cab diesel as well...weighs about 7800 pounds. My tires are siped with pretty aggressive tread pattern. Pretty much can go where I want just have to watch out for the other guys. If you have to chain up a 4X4...why go at all? I think siping really helps.

Mr. Carp · 01-09-2004, 10:54 PM

Must not be driving on very slick roads.

Shoot, our 40,000lb snowplow has a tough time going in certain situations.