What Tire Chain Options are Compatible with P255/50R20 Tires on a 2013 Ford Explorer?

Published 01/30/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Konig Easy Fit Tire Chains - Diamond Pattern - Square Link - Self Tensioning - 1 Pair

(119)

$546.33

Titan Chain Cable Tire Chain - Ladder Pattern - Roller Links - Manual Tensioning - 1 Pair

(453)

$102.70

ISSE Classic Snow Socks - Size 72 - 1 Pair

(52)

$111.21

Titan Chain RA10 Rubber Tire Chain Adjuster - 1 Pair

(209)

$18.89

Konig Tire Chains - Diamond Pattern - Square Link - Self Tensioning - 1 Pair

(740)

$372.13

Question:

I have a 2013 Ford Explorer with 255/50 R20 tires. Can i place low clearance cables on the tires?

asked by: Miguel M

Expert Reply:

According to your owners manual you should not use any tire chains or cables on the P255/50R20 tires. I'm sure this is due to clearance issues and limiting their liability should there be any issues. We have one option in the ISSE Hybrid Snow Socks - Size 72 - 1 Pair # TCH72 that will allow you to be legal and yet meet the Ford requirements.

If it were my vehicle, I would measure my internal clearances. If I had 12mm (0.47 inch) or more clearance between the inner sidewall of the tire and the vehicle, I would use the Konig Self-Tensioning Snow Tire Chains - Diamond Pattern - D Link - XG12 Pro - Size 265 # TH2004705265. These D link chains are self adjusting and will give far superior traction to cable chains or snow socks. If the clearance is adequate, this is the clear choice in my opinion.

If I had less than 12mm clearance, then I would use the Titan Chain Cable Snow Tire Chains - Ladder Pattern - Steel Rollers - 1 Pair # TC3010 to give better traction and yet still minimize any clearance issues. If you go this route you will also need tensioners like # TCOA2.

expert reply by: Jason S