Snow Chains for Legacy Outback

[Joe Roach]

I know that this has been asked several times in the past and that I
will probably never really need to fit snow chains but I am thinking
about buying a 2005 UK spec Outback. These come with 17 inch 215/55
wheels and I want to use it for skiing trips to France where the
police often make you fit chains whether you need them or not (If you
don't, it means a fine and a no go to the resort). I can't get an
answer to my question from offical sources in the UK but does anyone
know if I can fit chains to these (big) wheels and which wheels they
go on (do I need four)?

Thanks

Joe

 

[Voja]

Not sure if this is available in the UK ( *http://tinyurl.com/5std2 *)*
*but you may be able to fit it on your tires/wheel well.

Here is the full link so you don't get confused with Tiny URL (or it may
be warped):
http://www.costco.com/Browse/Produc...-Cat3960&pos=0F&whse=&topnav=&prodid=11029596


Also, here is the link with .pdf file that gives more details re. tire
fitting:
http://www.costco.com/Images/Content/Misc/PDF/11029596.pdf

From the car manual for my Outback 2002 I know I cannot fit tire chains.

Good luck,
Voja

 

[JH]

I have 2005 Outback and would reckon that the spec in Ireland is the same as
the UK. The manual says chains can be fitted and to the front wheels only.
Only 3k miles on the car so far and no regrets - great car.

Cheers
John

 

[Joe Roach]

I have 2005 Outback and would reckon that the spec in Ireland is the same
as
the UK. The manual says chains can be fitted and to the front wheels only.
Only 3k miles on the car so far and no regrets - great car.

Cheers
John

Thanks everybody for the information. It looks like I'll be getting an
Outback (and some, hopefully never to be used chains!).

Joe.

 

[Dean Sniegowski]

I live out here in California where sometimes they make all cars (even
4WD/AWD) put chains on. I emailed Subura about my 2005 OBW and they told me
they don't offically support the use of traction devices but unoffically
they recommend Shur Grip Z cables(www.scc-chain.com). I did put them on once
in my garage just for fit and them seems fairly tight. However I'm in no rush
to find out how they work in the snow unless I *really* have to.

DS

 

[y_p_w]

I live out here in California where sometimes they make all cars
(even 4WD/AWD) put chains on. I emailed Subura about my 2005 OBW
and they told me they don't offically support the use of traction
devices but unoffically they recommend Shur Grip Z cables
(www.scc-chain.com). I did put them on once in my garage just for
fit and them seems fairly tight. However I'm in no rush to find
out how they work in the snow unless I *really* have to.

California's rules are antiquated. They consider a "snow tread
tire" to be any M+S marked tire with 6/32" of tread left. Other
states have adopted rules incorporating the new "Severe Snow
Service" as part of their tire/chain requirements.

Also, 4WD/AWD isn't a panacea for really bad winter driving
conditions. Sure - it's easier to get going, but you're going to
need better traction (via chains and/or real winter tires) to help
stop and turn.

 

[Ralph E Lindberg]

....

Also, 4WD/AWD isn't a panacea for really bad winter driving
conditions. Sure - it's easier to get going, but you're going to
need better traction (via chains and/or real winter tires) to help
stop and turn.

Yuppers, a friend in the WSP figures that people are 10X more likely to
end up in the ditch if they are driving an 4WD. Since most people think
4WD means they can drive anywhere and in any conditions.

--

 

[y_p_w]

Yuppers, a friend in the WSP figures that people are 10X more likely to
end up in the ditch if they are driving an 4WD. Since most people think
4WD means they can drive anywhere and in any conditions.

I did a quick search. Of all the results I got, I'm guessing WSP
means "Washington State Patrol". The other big thing if there are
chain controls is to have plenty of fuel and slow down.