Tire Chains for a 2010 Ford F-150 with P275/55R20 Tires

Published 01/27/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Titan Chain Snow Tire Chains w Cams - Ladder Pattern - V Bar Links - Assisted Tensioning - 1 Pair

(710)

$130.83

Glacier Multi-Arm Tire Chain Tensioners for 19" to 24-1/2" Rims - Rubber - 1 Pair

(93)

$50.04

Glacier Cable Tire Chains - Ladder Pattern - Roller Links - Manual Tensioning - 1 Pair

(1098)

$173.01

Titan Chain Snow Tire Chains - Diamond Pattern - Square Link - Assisted Tensioning - 1 Pair

(725)

$143.41

Question:

I have a 2010 Ford F150. With a tire size of P27555R20. The owners guide says not to put chains on this size of tire for this truck model. My question is, why. I see that you have the titan chain v bar fot that size of tire and wheel. So why is it that Ford says not to put chains on this size of tire? I have used the cam tighteners on other vehicles and would like to use them on the F150, as they have done very well.

asked by: Roy M

Expert Reply:

The problem is that the larger the wheel and tire size the less clearance there is all around the tire. There may be plenty of clearance between the tread and the wheel wells but limited space between the inner sidewall and the truck.

The limited clearance could result in the chains hitting a vehicle component and causing damage. The Class S rated cable chains that fit this size are # PW2028C. Class S means that the chains need less than 15 millimeters between tire sidewall and the vehicle. For these cables I also recommend adjusters # PW103 to keep the cables tight and in place.

For actual chains and not cables I recommend # TC2327 which are also Class S rated.

There is what I call the Tire Chain Paradox or Reno's Law. Basically it occurs when the vehicle owner's manual says that chains can't be used yet you live in or travel to areas where they are required by law. When presented with this information it is up to you to determine if it is better to follow the manual or to use chains!

expert reply by: Michael H