Snow Chains For my tires

mattyoc20 · December 17, 2017

So I picked up a set of chains for my truck (2015 Silverado 1500 LS crew cab) and the manual states not to use chains on tire size LT265 70r17 tires. Now I'm driving with P265 70r17 tires. I called GM and they said I should talk to my local dealership and ask them the question. I put the chains on and they seam to fit fine. Would I be able to use the chains? What is the reason for not being able to put chains on this tire size?

sdeeter19555 · December 17, 2017

My thought is that GM doesn't want the liability in the event one comes loose and rips the caliper off or you hang one wheel hard enough it twists a spline off somewhere.

Nothing has changed over the years that would prevent chain use, its likely just GM protecting themselves from potential warranty work. If you have ample clearance and have them properly installed, there is no reason you couldn't use them.

Steve
2012 2500hd

mattyoc20 · December 18, 2017

Thanks sdeeter. Yea I mean everything looks like it fits well. It's always from break lines and everything else. Maybe I'll check with the dealership but it doesn't make sense to me

Donstar · December 18, 2017

I'm interested in hearing what you find out from your dealer. If GM deferred you to your dealer then I suspect it is not a big problem. It appears you have a nice fitting set of chains and they will be good to have in case of emergency. I use to carry a set when I lived in snowy regions with a 2 wd. I made sure to avoid having to use them because I dislike putting them on and taking them off! As an aside, if you frequently encounter snow, and haven't tried fresh dedicated snow tires, I highly recommend the investment. I do fine with good all-seasons and 4 wd. but I'd own dedicated snows on rims with a 2 wd. They make a remarkable difference.

mattyoc20 · December 18, 2017

I've never needed chains in my area except when I had up to my cabin. Not having chains has costed me a trip a year for the past 4 years. I would only use them here on he back roads that don't get plowed

L86 All Terrain · December 18, 2017

They are probably referring to clearance on the front wheel from the UCA and swaybar. Full lock in 4x4 with front chains will probably catch something with that tire size. If your on the back and you keep them tight with bungees, you will be fine.

Donstar · December 18, 2017

It sounds like chains may be a temporary solution for you depending on the remoteness of your cabin. If you are out in the bush and get stuck with chains on, you can be facing a very difficult experience. I have learned some of this "the hard way" and makes for great stories afterwards. If you have a winter retreat you may consider a 4 wd for your next truck purchase even if you only use it a couple of times a year.

crankman · December 18, 2017

Look fine to me you might get a tie wrap and cinch down those 4 extra links dangling so it wont hit nothing. They will work fine unless one comes loose just dont fly around in them those are the good chains with teeth on them. Down here I just use the cables they can be slipped on without lifting the tire and they work fine to.

sdeeter19555 · December 18, 2017

It sounds like chains may be a temporary solution for you depending on the remoteness of your cabin. If you are out in the bush and get stuck with chains on, you can be facing a very difficult experience. I have learned some of this "the hard way" and makes for great stories afterwards. If you have a winter retreat you may consider a 4 wd for your next truck purchase even if you only use it a couple of times a year.

How did you conclude he has a 2wd? I missed that part!

Steve
2012 2500hd 6.0l

Donstar · December 18, 2017

51 minutes ago, sdeeter19555 said:

How did you conclude he has a 2wd? I missed that part!

Steve
2012 2500hd 6.0l

I think it's a pretty reasonable guess based on what we've read so far. ;-)

sdeeter19555 · December 18, 2017

I think it's a pretty reasonable guess based on what we've read so far. ;-)

I've ran chains on all four corners on a 4wd before...I didn't read into like that I guess?

I carried four chains (2-link, vee bars) for my Dodge 2500 in the winter, but I also ran Maine to Washington, Florida to New Mexico...needed them more than once.

Steve
2012 2500hd 6.0l

mattyoc20 · December 18, 2017

Thanks guys. My truck in 4x4 and For the most part won't even need the chains at the cabin it's getting out that would be the issue. There is a hill that even with 4 wheel drive gets ice and not plowed. That's the reason for he chains wi the ice breakers. Also I do plan on cutting the excess chain. I was just waiting to see how this thread went as I may have returned them. Based on what you guys are telling me, I think I am ok. I appreciate the help.

sdeeter19555 · December 18, 2017

Thanks guys. My truck in 4x4 and For the most part won't even need the chains at the cabin it's getting out that would be the issue. There is a hill that even with 4 wheel drive gets ice and not plowed. That's the reason for he chains wi the ice breakers. Also I do plan on cutting the excess chain. I was just waiting to see how this thread went as I may have returned them. Based on what you guys are telling me, I think I am ok. I appreciate the help.

I wouldn't cut the excess chain, I would just wire or zip tie the loose end up like was suggested. Often you need the length to get them on the tire, then readjust as the chains settle on the tire.

Steve
2012 2500hd 6.0l

Donstar · December 18, 2017

33 minutes ago, mattyoc20 said:

Thanks guys. My truck in 4x4 and For the most part won't even need the chains at the cabin it's getting out that would be the issue. There is a hill that even with 4 wheel drive gets ice and not plowed. That's the reason for he chains wi the ice breakers. Also I do plan on cutting the excess chain. I was just waiting to see how this thread went as I may have returned them. Based on what you guys are telling me, I think I am ok. I appreciate the help.

I guessed wrong! Sounds like some pretty tough conditions. I agree with Steve and crankman to tie the extra chain. You may need the extra links if you change tires or if you have to install them in adverse conditions.

newdude · December 18, 2017

On ‎12‎/‎16‎/‎2017 at 8:44 PM, mattyoc20 said:

So I picked up a set of chains for my truck (2015 Silverado 1500 LS crew cab) and the manual states not to use chains on tire size LT265 70r17 tires. Now I'm driving with P265 70r17 tires. I called GM and they said I should talk to my local dealership and ask them the question. I put the chains on and they seam to fit fine. Would I be able to use the chains? What is the reason for not being able to put chains on this tire size?

Straight from the owners manual:

Quote

Tire Chains

Warning: If the vehicle has dual wheels or P265/65R18, P275/55R20, LT265/70R17, LT265/70R18, LT265/60R20, P285/50R20, 285/45R22, or P285/45R22 size tires, do not use tire chains. They can damage the vehicle because there is not enough clearance. Tire chains used on a vehicle without the proper amount of clearance can cause damage to the brakes, suspension, or other vehicle parts. The area damaged by the tire chains could cause you to lose control of the vehicle and you or others may be injured in a crash.

Use another type of traction device only if its manufacturer recommends it for use on the vehicle and tire size combination and road conditions. Follow that manufacturer's instructions. To help avoid damage to the vehicle, drive slowly, readjust, or remove the device if it is contacting the vehicle, and do not spin the vehicle's wheels.If you do find traction devices that will fit, install them on the rear tires.

Caution: If the vehicle does not have dual wheels and has a tire size other than P265/65R18, P275/55R20, LT265/70R17, LT265/70R18, LT265/60R20, P285/50R20, 285/45R22, or P285/45R22, use tire chains only where legal and only when you must. Use chains that are the proper size for the tires. Install them on the tires of the rear axle. Do not use chains on the tires of the front axle. Tighten them as tightly as possible with the ends securely fastened. Drive slowly and follow the chain manufacturer's instructions. If you can hear the chains contacting the vehicle, stop and retighten them. If the contact continues, slow down until it stops. Driving too fast or spinning the wheels with chains on will damage the vehicle.

More than likely its an overall tire diameter or tire width issue. LT tires have taller treads than P tires, therefore increasing the tire diameter that little bit more. Second paragraph applies to you it seems.