gwpfan

Per 2012 F-150 Owners Guide (Sept. 2011 First Printing)
Pg. 255
"Note: Do not place chains on the following tire sizes: P265/60R18, P275/65R18, LT275/65R18, LT315/70R17, P275/55R20, and P275/45R22."

I don't understand why. I had P275/65R20's changed to P275/65R18 for a better off road tire and now I read chains aren't 'allowed'. This doesn't make sense whatsoever. I could possibly see more so with the 20's that I had since the rims would likely get beat up, but there allowed on my old 20's but not allowed on 18's. Doesn't make sense whatsoever, especially since it is the same tire height/width, only difference is the rim size.

Any one have any idea why? TIA

Tried calling Ford Customer Service and all the gal did was read out of the same book I read and said contact the local dealer for more information.

kjo43

I believe its a clearance issue

Centexguy

What he^^ said.

cmb2474

I think you hit the nail on the head... potential damage to the wheel. I just test fit my chains on the stock 275 55R 20. The chains are definately gonna chew up those pretty fake chrome "clad" wheels if I have to do any serious amount of chain driving. IMHO it is a dumb wheel design for a 4x4 truck... putting the wheel spokes almost protruding past the tire... guess they are building trucks for "those" people (you know... the ones that want a truck, but will never go somewhere that chains might be required).

At some point I will likely be changing my wheels for some real wheels that are meant to do truck stuff.

MR.FX4

The tire height is not the same, that might be the reason. Just a guess

Unit 91

If it's a clearance issue (typically the issue lies between the tire and suspension components) inquire about the use of a low-profile cable instead.

gwpfan

To me it's really weird that it's acceptable on the 20's, but not on the 18's.
cmb2474 - My thoughts exactly so I went and bought some 2012 Ford 18" wheels off of craiglist, should've read the manual first...

I went as well to and updated manual, third printing and it has the same statement on Pg. 261
"Note: Do not place chains on the following tires sizes: P265/60R18,
P275/65R18, LT275/65R18, LT315/70R17, P275/55R20, and P275/45R22."

I don't understand a clearance difference between the 20's and the 18's if the tire size is the same? *Tire height if different it's very,very minor, I changed out the tires myself, but by no means am I a tire expert.

mrpositraction

LOL, I have offroaded my whole life and NEVER needed chains. This comment is comical.

rancherlee

They, unlike us "flat lander" snow country people, may have a lot of hilly country to drive around chains do make a difference in traction. I know chains make a pretty significant difference on my beater plow truck that never leaves the yard! A good set of snow tires is all we need in the midwest.

fjhutch

Chains sure are nice to have on steep ice. I had to chain up all four on my Jeep Wrangler Rubicon last year. But first I had to winch my snow plow guy (Silverado) back on to the driveway after he tried to get up the hill with chains on the back only.

With that said, the Manual on the Jeep said the same thing no chains, as they hit the suspension when flexed, but driving slow was fine. I have not chained up the truck to see what hits if anything.

Cheers,
Hutch