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Mitch Merchant (Mitch)
| Posted on Wednesday, November 13, 2002 - 02:17 pm: |
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I've searched the archives and have not come across a thread discussing the proper use and installation of tire chains. I drive a D2 and the manual states that chains should only be fitted to the rear tires. This seems very odd since a four wheel drive vehicle (with no CDL) would seem to require chains on all four tires to get the maximum traction benefits. At the very least, it would appear to make more sense to fit chains to the front tires in order to get traction with the added benefit of steering control on slick surfaces. Since winter is fast approaching, any thoughts on this or any other chain related issues would be greatly appreciated. |
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Milan (Milan)
| Posted on Wednesday, November 13, 2002 - 02:31 pm: |
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Chains cannot be fitted on some vehicles because of lack of clearance. Maybe that's why they only suggest rear. Another reason on todays vehicles could be all the wiring for ABS, ETC, etc. On the front the wires have to be loose enough to allow steering and they could get caught in the chains. However, so do brake hoses and thus my bet is fender/spoiler clearance. |
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E Snyder
| Posted on Wednesday, November 13, 2002 - 04:13 pm: |
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www.tirechains.com |
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Ross Thoma (Rossthoma)
| Posted on Wednesday, November 13, 2002 - 04:15 pm: |
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Chains on the front can be prety hard on the steering components. the unbalanced wheels can wobble at higher speeds and cause eratic correction patters. And the sudden grip of the chain when spinning up bad spots can suddenly throw the front end into a slash pile or tree before you can react. $$$$ I have learned to put them on the back and put the front set on only when in dyre need. By the way this is experience talking. Ross Thoma |
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E Snyder
| Posted on Wednesday, November 13, 2002 - 04:16 pm: |
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PS- Be careful with chains on front tires, if your tires rub or come really close to your radius arms. If you put chains on all fours, make sure your steering stops are set out a bit. |
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rovrboy
| Posted on Wednesday, November 13, 2002 - 04:19 pm: |
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http://www.bb4wa.com/articles/Chains.htm |
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Mark Albrecht (Markalbrecht)
| Posted on Wednesday, November 13, 2002 - 06:08 pm: |
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Just use the RUD roto grip system -- http://www.thomasregister.com/olc/rudchain/rotogrip.htm -- sure, you loose some ground clearance, but you'd never have snow problems and never have to install the chains (well, maybe just the initial install). |
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Pugsly (Pugsly)
| Posted on Wednesday, November 13, 2002 - 07:35 pm: |
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FYI, the chains that tirechains.com sell are Asian imitation RUD chains. They are cheaper, but I don't know how the quality compares. I bought RUD chains from Bill Burke, even though tirechains.com knockoff was cheaper. |
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Bill Bettridge (Billb)
| Posted on Thursday, November 14, 2002 - 09:17 am: |
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Not to be nosey - but how much do those genuine RUD chains (grip 4x4) go for? Thanks, Bill |
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Ross Thoma (Rossthoma)
| Posted on Thursday, November 14, 2002 - 02:32 pm: |
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Just a note on my previous post I have not used the diamond type chains only the ladder. The diamond type look great and I can see that they are going to be superior to the ladder type, Period. No doubt you should stay away from the ladder with thies on the market. Those will be my next set. Ross Thoma |
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Pugsly (Pugsly)
| Posted on Thursday, November 14, 2002 - 04:04 pm: |
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Bill - I don't remember exactly how much the RUD chains were, but seems like they were around $130/set. It may be different for your tire size - email or call Rachel at bb4wa. 970-858-3468 |
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Eric OLsen
| Posted on Wednesday, November 20, 2002 - 09:51 pm: |
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What would be the best link size for chains that would be used for mainly offroad or does it not really matter?? |
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the Big Daddy
| Posted on Wednesday, November 20, 2002 - 09:58 pm: |
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Chains... Did some one say chains.. Bill B say its not so. Evan |
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Bill Bettridge (Billb)
| Posted on Thursday, November 21, 2002 - 02:53 pm: |
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Evan Yep - sold the cable chains to Ron - time for some real ones so I can get stuck even further back in the woods at your place! LOL Bill |