Snow chains

[Kulanak]

Has anyone successfully used a chain "alternative" like spikes spiders or Thule K-summit series on a 2010 Outback?

I've used spikes spiders for years on my 98 outback, but apparently the larger wheel size and smaller wheel well clearances on the 2010 (and presumably the 2011) Outback may cause problems.

In case anyone is not familiar with these, they are like regular snow chains, but MUCH easier to put on and off. Very helpful in hilly areas where snow tends to accumulate only at higher altitudes.

Thule - Thule Tire Chains

Spikes-Spider :: Models

Of course, you may wonder why an AWD car would need chains, but it definitely makes it safer going down hill and/or stopping.

[Somerset Max]

Alternatively, you might want to consider a set of top-rated winter tires, such as the Michelin X-Ice. These new-technology tires are effective on ice, as well as on snow, and help you to stop in a significantly shorter distance.

[Croissant Jedi]

I have these for my OB:-

Maggi TRAK car chains (pair) no. 213

However I'm hoping never to have to use them and only carry them for "Gendarmerie" purposes.

I had Vredestein Wintrac Extremes fitted on my previous CRV and never had to resort to chains.

[Tifosi Buffs]

I'm familiar with the Thule Chains. Thule purchased the Konig company out of Italy a few years back and these are the same chains branded under the Thule name. They are super high quality and you get what you pay for. Depending on the model, they are also very easy to install and remove. Again, the more you spend, the easier they are to use. Check out Vulcan Tire Sales - Tires, Tire Chains, Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPMS), and More... Falken - Goodyear - Yokohama - Pirelli - Kumho - Dean - RV Tires and more...

[subiesailor]

I've had chains in the car to say I have them but NEVER once have I been asked to use them when the chain control guys see that I'm driving a Subaru.

The only time I ran into a traction issue was when I was plowing too much snow and the street had a layer of ice which case ground clearance was the main issue but even then I was able to go up the long driveway with little issue. The heavier Grand C jeep actually had more wheel spin than we did and their tires were nearly the same tire we had.

I'm not even sure the subaru would drive better with chains anyway given you have a new set of issues with chains in play. If the Subaru needs chains to move chances are nothing else is even on the road and making a good cup of coffee and watching a movie is the right choice vs driving.

[Kulanak]

Thank you all

I am concerned that snow tires alone would not be adequate on the Seattle hills when it (rarely) gets icy (even the fancy studless variety). I'll probably put them on, but want to have an option when the weather gets really bad. I don't have the option of staying off the roads.

I've emailed a Thule K-summit vendor to see if they fit on a 2010 Outback. Have not heard back yet. They look just like the Maggi trak 213, which are not available in the states. Might be the identical product.

Sounds like the SCC brand Super Z6 (size SZ143) cables may work. I'll look into those.

Might have to remove the diminutive front splash guards. That is the point of lowest clearance.

[Tifosi Buffs]

I found a PDF fit guide on the Thule site.

215/70/16 = K55
225/60/17 = K45

[subiesailor]

Originally Posted by Kulanak

Thank you all

I am concerned that snow tires alone would not be adequate on the Seattle hills when it (rarely) gets icy (even the fancy studless variety). I'll probably put them on, but want to have an option when the weather gets really bad. I don't have the option of staying off the roads.

I've emailed a Thule K-summit vendor to see if they fit on a 2010 Outback. Have not heard back yet. They look just like the Maggi trak 213, which are not available in the states. Might be the identical product.

Sounds like the SCC brand Super Z6 (size SZ143) cables may work. I'll look into those.

Might have to remove the diminutive front splash guards. That is the point of lowest clearance.

the clearance between the lower corners of the body and the tires is pretty tight. I would be worried about doing damage to the body of the car even with the spider type systems which tend to stay pretty snug against the tire. If snow tires can't cut it chains are going to be a no go for the most part. Which case the classic park at the bottom of the hill and walk home deal. Seattle area thats maybe once or twice a winter in a worst case - I wouldn't even bother with chains given the whole clearance challenge your more likely to damage the car and create a much larger issue. If the OB won't go up an icy road with snow tires - you'll need a snow cat cuz there is little regarding your normal vehicles that would make that trip.

[Tifosi Buffs]

That's the whole point to the K-Summit. They are designed to fit ultra low clearance vehicles.

[jben123]

Originally Posted by Kulanak

Thank you all

I am concerned that snow tires alone would not be adequate on the Seattle hills when it (rarely) gets icy (even the fancy studless variety). I'll probably put them on, but want to have an option when the weather gets really bad. I don't have the option of staying off the roads.

I've emailed a Thule K-summit vendor to see if they fit on a 2010 Outback. Have not heard back yet. They look just like the Maggi trak 213, which are not available in the states. Might be the identical product.

Sounds like the SCC brand Super Z6 (size SZ143) cables may work. I'll look into those.

Might have to remove the diminutive front splash guards. That is the point of lowest clearance.

Kulanak - I just bought a 2011 Outback and also concerned about snow/ice in the Northwest. Will be driving from Bend to Seattle several times this winter. Dealer recommended Bridgestone Bliizzak snow tires.