Can Snow Chains Safely Be Used on 2017 Ram 1500 with Falekn WildPeak 275/60R20 Tires

Question:

I have a 2017 Ram 1500 with Falken Wildpeak AT3W 275/60R20. Looking at the Konig KON44FR tire chains. Just checking to see if these will fit and your thoughts if these would be the best tire chains for this truck. Also, are these the same as the XD16 pro 279?

asked by: Gary B

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Konig Tire Chains # KON44FR will fit the 275/60R20 tires on your 2017 Ram 1500 just fine, and it is the same as the XD-16 Pro Size 279, but I do have a concern with the kind of clearance you'll have so I'm hesitant to recommend using this (or any chain for that matter) for your application.

When I looked at the online owner's manual for your vehicle it listed out a variety of tire sizes that can be used with tire chains but the wheel sizes were limited to 17" and 18" which means your 20" wheels will naturally be larger. This means that the open space between the inner sidewall of your tire and some of the functions of your vehicle (like brake lines or even some wiring) won't be sufficient enough to safely use tire chains. If you were to install these chains on your tire it's very likely that the chains will damage some components and then you'll be stranded in the snow and ice without a working vehicle.

In order to use chains with your vehicle you'll either need to get tires that match the chart on page 511 of your owner's manual. The only way to get around this is if your Falken WildPeak tires are rated for snow and ice usage. In that case you won't need chains anyways.

expert reply by: Jon G