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Topic: AutoSock vs. Cable Tire Chains (Read 277 times) previous topic - next topic
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AutoSock vs. Cable Tire Chains

Has anyone used the AutoSock (AutoSock - Better Than the Best Tire Chains - Shop Tire & Snow Socks) for your LD tires when driving in the snow?

We’ve seen the cable tire chains recommended on LDO (SZ429, Amazon.com: Security Chain Company SZ429 Super Z6 Cable Tire Chain for...), but they seem to be for passenger vehicles, not heavy motorhomes.

Apparently a Z8 (rather than Z6) is recommended for commercial vehicles and motorhomes, but when I look up our size tire for the cable tire chains, they don’t carry the Z8 for our tires.

We have LT225/75/R16 tires. (AutoSock recommends size AS697.) The cost is about the same for either AutoSock or cable chain.

Thanks for your help (again).

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2002 Mid Bath "Daisy"
"In this world where you can be anything you want to be,
be kind."

Re: AutoSock vs. Cable Tire Chains
Reply #1

Auto Socks have been around for years, while I remember the topic and links being brought up in the past, I have no memory of anyone using socks mentioned here.
The reason for the thinner, Super Z-6 cables is to deal with the tight clearances around the rear duals wheels, there isn't much extra space in the wheel wells.
Check your own LD for clearance by sticking your hand into one the rear wheel well and seeing how little space there is between the tires and the front and rear walls.
The flip-up rear tire skirts may have too many sharp projections, from the hinge assy, that could snag an Autosock

I have used the Z-6 cables a couple of times and they have done well. If conditions are so bad that they do not provide the needed traction. pulling off the road and settling down, with the furnace blazing, until the road is cleared, would be a prudent decision. In the cold, always travel with a filled propane tank and keep the gas tank at least half full.
The cables are carried in the LD all winter, removing them for the warm weather seasons.
Amazon.com: Security Chain Company SZ429 Super Z6 Cable Tire Chain for...

Whatever traction device you decide on, do a practice run or two in your driveway, better to learn the installation tricks when it's dry and warm...your hands will thank you.
To ease installation, build two ramps for the inside duals with Lynx leveling blocks, using the ramp to drive the inside duals tires up onto, lifting the outside duals slightly off the ground. This allows the chain, cable or sock to be more easily wrapped around the tires and secured. Less rolling around in the snow is the result.

Larry

As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze

Re: AutoSock vs. Cable Tire Chains
Reply #2
To confirm, the rear chains would go only on the outside duallies, correct?
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264

Re: AutoSock vs. Cable Tire Chains
Reply #3
To confirm, the rear chains would go only on the outside duallies, correct?

Correct except chains will not fit, Z6 cables will.
The inner wheels could use cables, it would be quite a workout getting them on.
Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze

Re: AutoSock vs. Cable Tire Chains
Reply #4
Yesterday I bought a set of chains for my car from etrailer.com (Great selection and information including “how-to” videos). While on the site, I looked at the snow socks. They require 1.46” clearance from the top of the wheel to the wheel well, and 0.59” from sidewall to the vehicle (thus, also, to the inner dualy). With all that fabric flying around, I think I’d want even more margin to avoid snags. — Jon
(Former) ‘06 TK “Albatross.” And (former) Vespa 250.   Alas, no more; both are gone.😕 Great memories remain! 😄

Re: AutoSock vs. Cable Tire Chains
Reply #5
This is a timely discussion. If you happen to be passing through the Tehachapi area this weekend, 2-4 inches of the white stuff is forecast at the pass levels so bring your cables and socks.  More at our house.
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264


Re: AutoSock vs. Cable Tire Chains
Reply #7
Just remember to check with your state department of transportation as not all devices are authorized for use.
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264

 
Re: AutoSock vs. Cable Tire Chains
Reply #8
If you're sure to need chains these work very well, are very easy to install and are VERY expensive!


Spikes-Spider: Easier, Better than Tire Chains - Winter Driving – Spikes Spider

Might not be a good option if you have long valve stems or extenders. In one of the instruction pages they warn that these must be removed or they could be shorn off. Plus, this system  requires a mounting plate be attached to the wheel “before Winter” in order for you to use the quick mount system. Still, it’s a clever approach, albeit expensive.  I can’t see most of us choosing to drive in the snow often enough to make them worthwhile. JMHO. — Jon
(Former) ‘06 TK “Albatross.” And (former) Vespa 250.   Alas, no more; both are gone.😕 Great memories remain! 😄