MAZDASPEED3 and Snow Chains

[s.s.speed3]

I didn't find many threads about fitting chains on the stock wheels so I thought I'd ask. Is there enough clearance for standard chains? Are some brands more friendly to wheels and tires than others? I ask because I may just get all-seasons on the OEM wheels, using chains when conditions get bad. Otherwise I'll have to go the winter wheel/tire route.

Thanks.

 

[Falconx84]

sorry, but HELL NO!!!!

you might be able to go the cable route as they tend to hold tighter to the tire, but it'd still be too close for comfort and I saw this one device called auto socks, but it was in a magazine, don't even know if its in the US yet. might be worth looking for, it was basically like a tire cover you can use temporarily when conditions get too bad

go winter tire, your fenders will appreciate it

 

[Falconx84]

just confirmed that autosocks are in the US

http://www.autosock.us/

 

[s.s.speed3]

Yeah I was afraid of that. thanks for the autosocks link. I was also checking out these: http://www.flextrax.com/

The problem is we're required by law to have chains just in case a blizzard pops up (like the one this weekend we're supposed to get...2-3' of snow!!!!!). I know those GoClaws have been approved in this state. my biggest concern was the clearance though...i was going to take the rota/performance winter route, but of course i'm a noob when it comes to cars Then the question is if i do a 17 x 7 wheel with 48mm offset and 215/50-17 winter tire, would there be enough clearance for chains IF i absolutely had to put them on? Or maybe I should ask what setup would have enough clearance?

Thanks.

 

[Falconx84]

2-3 inches? wait.... I just saw that said FEET. Damn .... break out the snow mobile!!!

In that case, get a speed6 with these
http://www.mattracks.com/

in all seriousness.... if you absolutely have to have chains or something of the sort, those goclaws are pretty good. I had a land rover and while I never used them, quite a few people on the forums did and it made a difference

I've got trouble finding the law that requires chains.... so far, all I've seen is that they are required for commercial vehicles. I would recommend snow tires and perhaps the goclaws/snoclaws whichever

 

[Falconx84]

http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/winter/

maybe I'm reading it wrong, but it looks like to me that having chains is only required if its a commercial vehicle over 10,000lbs and that POVs can use winter tires. But then it contradicts itself later on with the road signs, so I dunno

 

[Falconx84]

www.snowchain.net... if you absolutely have to go chains use the diamond type - http://snowchain.net/CarChains.htm

Hope I've helped at least a little....

 

[Falconx84]

hehe... ok I apologize for how retarded this just got....

hey kids, just another reminder on why you shouldnt drink and post

Check the mad MS paint skillz

 

[s.s.speed3]

lol..wow, i can see the progression of your drinking...

yes you're right about the chains, it's only for passenger vehicles when the signs are on (aka, severe blizzard). so i most likely will never use them if i have good winter tires. now i just gotta decide if i want to get steelies =\

thanks falcon...for the info and entertainment

 

[loraine]

Laws Req Chains

Oregon Department of Transportation says: In typical winter conditions, vehicles rated at 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight (GVW) or less and not towing or being towed are allowed to use traction tires in place of chains. However in very bad winter road conditions all vehicles may be required to use chains regardless of the type of vehicle or type of tire being used.
I just called my dealer and they say not to use even the cable kind.

 

[M12]

Thule CG9 snow chains.

They work for me. Only had to use them 2 or 3 times though.