Looking for some recommendations on tire chains for my 20" tires. Price isn't necessarily a concern. Thanks

 

What are you going to use the chains for:
1. long term driving on snow covered paved roads;
2. long term driving on snow covered unpaved roads;
3. short term heavy duty low speed off-road - deep snow and/or deep mud;
4. any of the above with a trailer?

 

Paved roads, not necessarily long term driving. At the most maybe 100 miles total for one trip. Not pulling anything. But with our recent snow fall, I'm finding that I have little traction, even in 4 wheel. I'm getting snows put on in a week, but this is my first experience in this size pick-up. live in the mountains in Montana. I also want chains just to keep in the truck for emergencies.

 

If you have a Les Schwab near you, I would go there. They will have the chins in stock in the store. In addition, they will allow you to return them in the spring if they have not been used. I bought a set from them in 2016, returned them two years later when I put different sized tires on my truck.

 

I would recommend Security Chain Co. Radial Chain LT Series. This unit utilizes cable crosslinks which will be much smoother on packed snow covered roads.

BTW, a 100 mile run in chains is considered long term. An example of short term would be 10 miles such as installing chains only for scaling or descending a grade.

 

You won’t need them with proper snow tires and 4WD.

 

OP didn't ask whether he needed them or not. Personally, I haven't carried tire chains with me in my personal vehicle since i sold my 1968 F100 2-wheel drive.

 

If you're dealing with a hill that's all ice you will. 1-2x a winter I have to deal with that and I plan on investing in a pair or two.

 

Note that 20 inch tires don't support chains.

From the manual, page 401:

The tires on your vehicle have all-weather
treads to provide traction in rain and snow.
However, in some climates, you may need
to use snow tires and cables. If you need
to use cables, it is recommended that steel
wheels (of the same size and
specifications) be used, as cables may chip
aluminum wheels.
Follow these guidelines when using snow
tires and chains:
• If possible, avoid fully loading your
vehicle.
• Conventional link type chains may
contact and cause damage to the
vehicle's wheel house and/or body.
• Do not install chains on the front tires
as this may interfere with suspension
components.
• Only certain snow cables or chains
have been approved by Ford/Lincoln
as safe for use on your vehicle with the
following tires: 245/70R17,
LT245/70R17, 265/70R17 and
265/60R18.
• You should install snow cables or
chains that have been rated as SAE
Class S.
• Install chains securely, verifying that
the chains do not touch any wiring,
brake lines, or fuel lines.
• Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h) or
less if recommended by the chain
manufacturer while using snow chains.
• Drive cautiously. If you hear the chains
rub or bang against your vehicle, stop
and retighten the chains. If this does
not work, remove the chains to prevent
damage to your vehicle.
• Remove the tire chains when they are
no longer needed. Do not use tire
chains on dry roads.
• Purchase chains or cables from a
manufacturer that clearly labels body
to tire dimension restrictions. The snow
chains or cables must be mounted in
pairs on the rear tires only.

 

OK, I guess I missed this one. Thanks for bringing it to my attention. I'll call Ford in the morning to confirm. And if that is the case, then I still might get some cables, to be used in an emergency only. I really hate the way this truck has no traction (although I know these are the original tires still on it. Snows going on in a week). I also have about 300 lbs of tubes of sand in the bed.