What Does Class S Mean For Snow Tire Chains

Question

Question:

WHAT DOES THE CLASS S STAND FOR

asked by: RONALD F

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

Some newer cars, vans and small trucks, especially those with large, aftermarket tires, may require the use of Class S chains. Class S tire chains are designed for use on vehicles with restricted wheel well clearance. I have attached a photo that shows the areas where clearance for Class S tire chains is needed. For the A dimension a minimum of 1.46inches (37 mm) between the top of the tire tread and the wheel well is needed. For the B dimension, at least 0.59 inches (15 mm) between the tire's sidewall and the vehicle itself is required.

I have attached a helpful article that explains the differences in tire chains and a comparison chart for tire chains. I have also included a link to an article that is a snow tire chain review. This explains snow tire chains and also has a list of the states and their laws regarding snow tire chain use.

You will want to check with your owners manual to see what is recommended when considering snow tire chains.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L

1

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Sue L.

12/14/2024

Your write-up says you have attached an article, but the article is not attached. Can you email it to me? Thank you.

Reply

Kevin C.

12/14/2024

@SueL I've attach a link right below this comment that leads to all of our tire chain help articles. If you need any help picking out the right chains for your vehicle let me know the year/make/model and tire size and I'd be happy to help.

Helpful Links

article-categories.aspx?productgroup=tire-chains

Reply

Helmut

9/28/2025

@KevinC, I have a 2022 GMC duramax 2500. The book says not to use snow chains on my tires. 275/65R/20. They say there is not enough clearance could damage brake lines. what does E trailer recommend Helmut

Reply

Robin H.

9/30/2025

@Helmut we recommend following what your manual says.

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See All (5) Replies to Sue L. ∨

Serhiy

12/31/2024

Thanks for clear explanation.

Reply

Answer 1

Hey William, thanks for the information. For a set of low profile tire chains that fit LT245/75R16 tires, I recommend the Konig Tire Chains item #TH2004705255. These diamond pattern chains are great for great for snow and only require .59" of…

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Answer 2

Hey Eric! Looking at the manual for your 2021 Ford Explorer it says tire chains need to be 10 mm or less and cannot be self-tensioning. Based on that information I recommend the Glacier Tire Chains w/ Cam Tighteners #PWH2228SC. These are under 10 mm,…

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Answer 3

Hello Destiny, thanks for reaching out. So class S tire chains are designed for vehicles with restricted wheel well clearance. Sometimes traditional tire chains would be too large for certain vehicles and could cause damage to spring clips, fenders,…

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Answer 4

Hello Trent, For your 2024 Jeep Gladiator Sport S Max Tow, the CSS-1195 Coil SumoSprings are the right choice because they’re specifically designed to match the spacing and geometry of your Gladiator’s coil springs. The key detail is the inner wall…

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Answer 5

Twist link chains offer excellent traction in deep snow and some are even rated for mud. They provide decent traction on ice, and since they have rounded edges ride quality isn't too bad. V-Bar chains are similar but have better grip on ice. For…

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Answer 6

The #CSS-1168R and #CSS-1195F are only confirmed to fit the FWD models but that doesn't mean there aren't Coil SumoSprings for your 2023 Sienna AWD. To find the right size you will need to measure the gap between in the middle of the coil.…

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Answer 7

Hey Kris, yes the Konig Commercial Truck Tire Chains #th01571267 does fit your tire size of 265/70-17 and the fact the tires have a more aggressive tread pattern will not be an issue. Are BF Goodrich KO2 All Terrain Tires pretty loud? My parents had…

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Answer 8

Hey Bob, thanks for reaching out. The pewag Tire Chains #PWE2228S will fit the 245/60-20 tires on your 4Runner but they do not have a mechanism for securing any extra chain links. You definitely don't want extra links flying around while you…

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Answer 9

I am far from an expert on snowmobiles but one would have to think such a large truck with the correct tires and chains would be able to make it through up to 2' of snow assuming you have clearance on the vehicle. In regards to the type of tire…

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Answer 10

Hey John, the difference between those two tire sizes is .8 of an inch in overall diameter. The width is exact same which is 205 mm. The 205/80 is 28.9 inches in diameter and the 205/75 is 28.1 inches. The way tire sizes are listed is super annoying…

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Answer 11

Even though your JLU is lifted, I still recommend using a Class S compatible chain so that it ensures that there is not any contact with the brake lines and anything else that was relocated or left more exposed because of the lift. The Titan Chain…

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Answer 12

Hey D, for your 2024 Ford F-250 I recommend going with the Titan Chain Snow Tire Chains for Wide Base and Dual Tires #TC3229. These chains will fit your 285/70R17 tires, has no cams so it won't come undone when driving in reverse, and is made…

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