Recommended Snow Chains for Tire Size 35x12.5x18 / 305/70x18

Question:

Hi, I am looking for snow chains for my f150 4x4 with tire size of 35x12.5x18 / 305/70x18. I have looked at TC2539, Item # TC3831CAM, TC3231SCAM, I use my truck for hunting and camping as well as on roads in city during winter time. Thank you for the help.

asked by: Drew

Expert Reply:

All three of of the tire chains you're looking at are great quality. Which one is best for you depends on your application and what is most important to you because they have a few differences.

First the # TC3831CAM. This is a ladder pattern, which means the chains go straight across the tire tread and when you lay the chains out flat on the ground they resemble a ladder. It's a very traditional style that's been around for years. The downside to a ladder style is that the ride is rougher because you can feel it everytime you roll over one of the "rungs". This chain uses cam tighteners to help them fit on your tires without needing to purchase any adjusters or anything. The biggest thing to take into account with these is the V-bar style. The links have small spike-like pieces connecting to them (in the shape of a V) which is great for digging into ice. However, the downside to the V-bar is that they wear down more quickly on pavement and you don't gain a lot on snow.

Next look at # TC3231SCAM. This is another ladder pattern chain with cam tighteners. In fact, it's basically the same as the previous chain except it doesn't have V-bar links. Instead it uses square links. Square links are better for all around use because you get maximum contact with the entire link. The links are also "squared off" on the edges instead of being a round chain link so the corners of it dig in to ice and snow. They're not as good on ice as the V-bar style but they're just as good on snow and won't wear down as much.

Finally, # TC2539. It also uses the square links. However, the links are arranged in a diamond pattern instead of the ladder pattern which smooths out your ride because the chains are always in contact in the road. So you don't feel like you're going over a bump every time you hit one of the "rungs" like on a ladder chain. The other big differences here are the install and tightening. To install them you make one connection around the tire and then pull a tensioner to make them tight. The other two chains you make two connections around the tire and then adjust the cams. Personally, I believe the install is easier here once you know how to do it. Even though it's less straightforward when you haevn't done it. I always recommend someone test install these at home a few times before they're on the side of the road trying to figure it out.

Of the three I think I'd pick the # TC3231SCAM for you. Since you'll likely be using them on a varaiety of different roads I think the square links are the better choice. And of the two square link options these have a thicker chain which is going to have more impact when you are offroad.

Before purchasing any tire chains I recommend taking a look at your owner's manual for any restrictions using chains. I've also attached review videos on each product and pictures so you can see the difference in the links between the three.