Watt-maker

Actually, we go to ND & MN about twice a year. 10 miles from Canada. I've seen some pretty big snow up there. Go to CO often too.

I work near the continental divide in northwestern NM (about 7000' el). Its usually not bad enough for chains (in a 4x4 vehicle) but the family ranch in the mountains (about 9000' el) is a different story.

I may look into those 1/4" spacers. Although, looking at it, 1/2" to 3/4" more clearance would be ideal.

gDMJoe

Would not recommend ½" or ¾" spacers since there would not be enough stud/lugnut threads to safely secure the wheels.

And if you opt for wheel adapters (must be hub centric) the minimum thickness would be 1½" UNLESS the backside of the rims' mounting flanges have indentations since the studs are 1½" long. *Steel rims would require a minimum of 1½" whereas aluminum rims usually have the prementioned indentations to accept the extra stud length.
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blyons808

When I went to go but chains this past winter, I was told by the tire shop that Ford doesn't recommend them. I guess this is the reason why. Looks like I'll be putting some snow tires on my old 17" wheels

TheWhiteBeast

They don't recommend chains on the front wheels due to the vacuum actuated hubs and the danger of damaging that particular system.

blyons808

So I can run chains on the rears with stock tires?

BCMIF150

Surprisingly, the owners manual has very helpful information about chain use.

F-250,LD

I checked mine with stock tires and wheels, it's still pretty close. I might be able to get away with using chains but also may catch the shocks.

I may have to pick up a pair of tire cables for that once in a while emergency.

kulak

I'm pretty sure manual says no chains for Ford wheels bigger than 17 inch.

RES4CUE

There are plenty of passes in Washington state that require chains to pass.

TheWhiteBeast

Lived in Idaho most of my life and the only time I ever chained up was to get out of the mud.