What is the Difference Between Twist-Link Snow Chains and Square-Link Snow Chains

Published 01/11/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Titan Chain Tire Chains w Cams - Wide Base and Dual Tires - Ladder Pattern - Twist Link - 1 Axle Set

(199)

$166.98

pewag Wide Base Tire Chains - Ladder Pattern - Grooved Square Link - Manual Tension - 1 Pair

(26)

$394.29

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

(661)

$179.06

Titan Chain RA20 Rubber Tire Chain Adjuster for Heavy Trucks - 1 Pair

(35)

$32.88

Question:

My tire size is 275/70 R18

asked by: Leo L

Expert Reply:

For your 2016 RAM 2500 with tires sized 275/70-18 you can use the Titan Chain # TC3229CAM with twisted links and ladder design. The Twist-Link Snow Tire Chains are better for snow purposes than ice.

Square-Link Chains like part # TC3229S work better on ice than the twist-link chains. The Square-Links will work just as well in the snow too. Since they are both constructed of low-carbon steel, they will have about the same durability. If you are going to be using chains for a snow and ice situation I recommend going with the square chains since they have the squared edge which will do better with ice than the rounded twist-links will.

For either set we recommend the Titan # TCOA3 rubber tensioners.

expert reply by: Jon G

Leo

1/11/2017

My tire size is 275/70 R18

Jon G.

1/11/2017

I have a few different tire chain options that will fit your 2016 Ram 2500. The Titan Diamond Pattern Square Link Chains # TC2533 have smaller chains which will help provide more of a smooth ride than other tire chains. They also install quickly and don't require you to have to get back into your vehicle and pull forward or go in reverse to complete the installation. These are great for non-heavy duty snow chain purposes, like driving on the highway. Glacier Chains offers a variation of one of the chains that you referenced in your first question. Part # PWH3329SLC offers the square links as well which will provide excellent grip on the snowy and icy roads. These chains also use the side cams for effortless tightening during the installation. These chains are intended for highway use-not off-road applications. I recommend going with the Pewag All Square Snow Tire Chains # PWE3229S. They are made out of nickel manganese alloy which will resist rust, and they can be used on rough terrain. The great thing about these chains is that they are reversible so once you notice that they start to wear on one side, you can flip them over to use the other side. These chains don't have a cam system so it is recommended to use the Rubber Tire Adjuster # TCOA3 to make sure that they hug your tire for best results. I looked up the owner's manual for your 2016 Ram 2500 and it said to only use chains on the rear axle. I recommend double checking your physical copy as well just to be sure. I have attached some review videos for you as well.