Snow Tire Chain Options For 255/45R20 Tires With Less Than 1-1/2 Inches of Clearance

Question:

255/45 R20 tires - minimal clearance on the front, less than 1/2 inch from the inside of the tire and the suspension. More clearance on the rear but not 1.5 inch between the tire and the front of the fender well. What are the options for snow chains on this vehicle?

asked by: Brent

Expert Reply:

So there are a couple possible options for snow tire chains that fit your 255/45R20 tires with such limited clearance, and both are from Konig. They are low-profile chains, and one requires 12 mm (0.47 inches) of clearance, and the other requires just 10 mm (0.39 inches) of clearance between the top of your tire's tread and the wheel well, as well as the distance between your tire's sidewall and the vehicle. Both are from Konig:

- 12 mm (0.47 inches) of Clearance: Konig Self-Tensioning Snow Tire Chains # TH2004705255

- 10 mm (0.39 inches) of Clearance: Konig Self-Tensioning Snow Tire Chains # TH04115255

These are the only two options with the needed clearance that will fit your 255/45R20 tires, but aside from just fitting they are also just outstanding chains overall. Both are a diamond pattern, which is the best pattern type since they cover more of the tire to give you better traction, and both have D-link chains, which is optimal for even deep snow as they dig in and catch more of the road.

They also the simplest chains to use, with the # TH2004705255 requiring you to just put the chains around your tires, make the connections and then drive off because they self-tension. The # TH04115255 are even easier because you just put the chains around your tires and step on the pedal on the front so they tighten, and that's all there is to it.