Tire chains for the FWD Patriot

jack.allwardt · Feb 22, 2008

On page 290 of my operator's manual, it states,

"TIRE CHAINS: Due to limited clearance, tire chains are not recommended.
CAUTION! Damage to the vehicle may result if tire chains are used."

Someplace in this forum I noticed a post regarding using a little bigger tire and someone stated that it may rub the shock or other parts of the suspension. So the above may be true.

But, on page 135, talking about ESP it states,

"NOTE: To improve the vehicle’s traction when driving
with snow chains, or starting off in deep snow, sand or
gravel, it may be desirable to switch to the “Partial Off”
mode by pressing the ESP switch."

I only live 30 miles from the snow country in Central CA, but when conditions are severe, there is glare ice on the road, and all the ESP and traction tires may help you start, chains are what helps you stop.

So, any thoughts?

oldgoat1932 · Feb 22, 2008

cable chains would fit all right,keep them tight so not to hit anything.

Terasec · Feb 22, 2008

clearance

space between tire and bottom of strut tower is very limited
would look for thinner chains/cables.
also limit it to slow speeds, and install/remove them as needed
on the Pat would consider cable/chains only for emergency situations, and not for routine driving in icy conditions

patriotpierre · Feb 22, 2008

How about studded winter tires

jack.allwardt · Feb 22, 2008

For the less than half dozen trips to the snow, this would not be an option. Just need chains for those emergency things. Chains got me over a pass in Washington state in October when a surprise rain storm turned to sleet then ice all over the roadway. Fortunately, I had my chains and put them on to get over the hill. Many 4x4 had run into guard rails, off the road thinking they were immune to ice. The state police marveled at the fact I indeed (from CA ) actually had chains!

Thanks to all that responded. I will try the cable ones that have chain links as the rollers on the cable turn into bearings on hard surfacces. Grew up in the snow and ice and only visit occasionally and have probably forgetten more about winter driving than most of today's CA drivers know collectively. Carrying chains is just one of those...

PSU Patriot · Feb 25, 2008

Low profile chains

You could most likely use low profile chains:
http://www.tirechain.com/sub-s-diamond-chains.htm

demolaysgirl · Feb 25, 2008

Hubby bought me a set of cables for my Pat.

We've had it up to the snow twice (Huntington Lake/Sierra Summit both times) and haven't needed them...yet....4x4 was enough to get us through so far.

jack.allwardt · Feb 25, 2008

Thanks! these look great--and so do the ones that go on your feet!

Tire chains for the FWD Patriot

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