Tire Chain Recommendation for 2007 Toyota Tundra with 255/70/R18 Size Tires

Question:

I need to purchase chains for my 2007 Toyota Tundra. The tires are 255/70/R18 and I am unsure which chains would make most sense. We will be traveling to Big Bear, CA, which is a local trip and their may/may not be snow. Please help! Thank you.

asked by: Daniel S

Expert Reply:

Your first step when considering tire chains on any vehicle is a check of the owner's manual for any guidance or restrictions regarding their use. Many vehicles are limited to using special low-profile S-Class chains that do not require too much wheel well clearance. Before purchasing any tire chain check your vehicle's manual carefully and if in doubt speak to your local dealership.

Tire chains come in a variety of types and with varying features. Some are on-road only while others can be used on- and off-road. Some use a cable, like the Glacier # PW2028C that you referenced, while others use actual chains for traction, such as the Titan # TC2228CAM. Some chains even include features that provide protection from scratches to your rims.

Most importantly, tire chains can also differ substantially in how easy they are to install. Having recently completed here at etrailer a training course on tire chains I can tell you first hand that some chains are MUCH easier than others to get on and off the tires.

The point is that if you do really need chains the ones that are sufficiently easy to put on will actually get used and those will actually help you in bad road conditions. Chains that sit in your vehicle because they are a pain to put on will do you no good at all. So, if you really expect to ever use them, consider spending a bit more to get enhanced features like automatic tensioning. I have linked two articles on tire chains that will give you lots of background on the types and included features available.

The link at right will take you to our main page for tire chains that will fit your Tundra's 255/70-18 size tires. There are filters on the page that will allow you to narrow the products shown based on your application (on or off-road), the style of chain, chain Class, construction, brand, etc.

The chains you referenced, Glacier # PW2028C, are light-duty S-Class cable type chains that are suited for on-road use only. They offer manual tensioning via rubber adjusters # PW99 which we recommend. I have linked a video showing their use on a 2002 Tundra. If your intent is to have some cost-effective chains in the truck "just in case" these may be fine. If your manual says you can use non-S-Class chains you could consider the excellent Pewag All-Square Chains # PWE3227SC that feature case-hardened nickel manganese alloy steel construction. These will deliver far better performance than a cable chain.

Chains should be placed on the primary drive wheels as a first priority (unless your manual says otherwise) but can also be used on all four tires to provide even grip on all tires for both better traction and improved steering and braking (again, unless your manual says anything to the contrary).