Anyone have a recommendation for snow chains on the factor R18 tires? Unlike my SUV, there's not a lot of clearance.

 

You need something like spikes-spiders http://www.spike-spider.com or snobootz http://www.snobootz.com. I have tried spikes-spiders on my LS430 and they work great. However, snoboots are an alternative if spikes-spiders are out of your range.

 

I wouldn't do chains or cable on the LS. If by chance either one snaps, your car will be either dented or scratch. If it snows enough I need chains/cables, I'm driving my SUV or staying home

I've seen spike spider on many cars here in Seattle. Some people leave the base on year round, I see that mostly on minivans. The snobootz is an interesting idea/

 

Whenever i think snow chains, i think of that merc in Rocky that has em when they driving to that shack out in "russia" haha. I think a better bet would just be some very good, and possibly expensive snow tires

 

This is really just in case there's a snow storm while I'm enroute to a resort -- not regular usage. Anyone have other opinions on snow traction attachments?

 

Do a google search on "Thule K-Summit Snow Chains" They seem very interesting, but price is extra-ordinary... around $450. No need to chain around, just slip on and drive and it goes into place.

Do a youtube and there is a nice video on it.

 

I looked at these, but was very concerned, because they only attach to one lug nut. Go around a corner too fast and those things will never be seen again...LOL. I also don't like how you can't seem to get replacement parts for the Thule. If they break, you have to buy a whole new set. That would be no big deal with a $100 pair of snow chains, but if I am spending $450 on a pair of chains, I just don't know.

I will stick with spikes-spider until a better alternative comes along. I wish I was an inventor and had the mind to come up with an alternative. Could make millions!

 

Snow chains may not be legal in some states and provinces better be careful where you travel with them. I always throw a small shovel and some sand mixed with salt in my trunk. You can also buy plastic tracks.

 

Looks like Thule has come out with a low profile, self-tensioning chain. Anyone know if they will work with the 430's limited clearance?

"The self-tensioning Thule CG-9 Snow Chains are ideal for vehicles with very limited space between wheel and wheel well and/or mechanical parts. Utilizes a small 9mm link diameter for best clearance. The Thule CG9 is also the best anti-scratch solution for light alloy rims. Features the patented self-centering and auto-tensioning system which adjusts itself for a perfect fit."

Link: http://www.orsracksdirect.com/thule-...ow-chains.html

 

Those snobootz look interesting, but I laughed when it said they were held in place with hook and loop fasteners, aka velcro. I'm a believer in having a set of winter tires / wheels which serve my needs in the flat midwest. My dad and brother used to have a place in Tahoe and kept chains in their trunks.

 

Drive with a bag of cat litter and a shovel, if you need chains you should stay home.

 

I'm a flatlander. If we have a big snow or ice storm, I commute to my den, log in via VPN, and post WFH - working from home on my calendar. The roads are almost never bad for more than one day. We always have enough supplies in the house to last at lease a week.

However, in areas of the mountain west during snow events, the police set up roadblocks, even on interstates, and only let through persons with chains and, sometimes, 4WD. I-80 between Reno and Sacramento is notorious for this. When you live in the mountains and regularly have large snowfall events on steep inclines, it's just something you deal with.