Can Tire Chains be Used on All 4 Wheels of a 2008 Ford F-150

Updated 01/06/2017 | Published 01/05/2017

Question:

I have a 2008 Ford F150 4 X 4 with 4 wheel drive. Is it recommended to at times put chains on the front when using the 4 wheel drive??? I had a set of these chains on my old 1996 f150 with plow. No complaints they worked well when I sold the truck I let the new owner have them.

asked by: Jerry S

Expert Reply:

The use of chains is different for every vehicle. To determine where you should place the chains or other traction device on a given vehicle the first place to lock is the owner's manual. For the 2008 Ford F-150 the manual doesn't specify rear only or all of the wheel but does state the following:

"Do not place chains on the following tires sizes: P265/60R18, P275/65R18, LT275/65R18, P275/55R20, and P275/45R22.

Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and chains:
Use only SAE Class S chains.
Install chains securely, verifying that the chains do not touch any wiring, brake lines or fuel lines.
Drive cautiously. If you hear the chains rub or bang against your vehicle, stop and re-tighten the chains. If this does not work, remove the chains to prevent damage to your vehicle.
If possible, avoid fully loading your vehicle.
Remove the tire chains when they are no longer needed. Do not use tire chains on dry roads.
The suspension insulation and bumpers will help prevent vehicle damage. Do not remove these components from your vehicle when using snow tires and chains."

So you could put chains on all 4 wheels if you wanted. I have included a link to the chain main page for your truck where you can select the tire size you have to see the available options. Despite Ford stating not to use chains on some sizes if you are in an area where chains are required by law that law trumps the manual and Ford because they can't tell you to break the law.