Snow Chains Needed?

[DAVSCH]

Hello! We’re getting ready to go to Yellowstone in mid-September. I’ve heard that some passes get blanketed toward the end of the month. Park Service will insist on snow chains. I’ve got them for my truck. The ‘19 22’ FB Sport I have doesn’t, yet. Do I even need them? The Sport has standard electric brakes, that may be the driving factor. Any thoughts? Bob, your sage wisdom would be appreciated as well.

[BayouBiker]

If the road has compact snow and ice on it and you insist on driving through it, chains for the trailer are a very wise choice (I'd say a must) because you don't want the trailer passing your vehicle when you apply the brakes. It won't end pretty. You have a bathroom and heat, me? I' wait it out, but a nice pair of cable chains are a would work in a pinch. Don't run them on slush or wet pavement, they might let loose and give your pretty trailer a good lashing.

[InsideOut]

I sure don't tow in snow...especially if they salt the roads...salt + aluminum = corrosion. Not pretty....

If you must "carry them" to appease the Park Service, that's one thing - but I would "sit tight" until they aren't required rather than use them. Also, be quick to wash your trailer (undercarriage too!) if driving through chemical-treated roads, including melted snow.

Shari

[DAVSCH]

Originally Posted by BayouBiker

If the road has compact snow and ice on it and you insist on driving through it, chains for the trailer are a very wise choice (I'd say a must) because you don't want the trailer passing your vehicle when you apply the brakes. It won't end pretty. You have a bathroom and heat, me? I' wait it out, but a nice pair of cable chains are a would work in a pinch. Don't run them on slush or wet pavement, they might let loose and give your pretty trailer a good lashing.

Thank you BayouBiker. I’ve got Army experience with chains. Most horrible chains you can buy. We just never put them on the trailers. We counted on a 13 ton truck to take the little beasties. LOL. Thanks again!

[DAVSCH]

Originally Posted by InsideOut

I sure don't tow in snow...especially if they salt the roads...salt + aluminum = corrosion. Not pretty....

If you must "carry them" to appease the Park Service, that's one thing - but I would "sit tight" until they aren't required rather than use them. Also, be quick to wash your trailer (undercarriage too!) if driving through chemical-treated roads, including melted snow.

Shari

Thanks InsideOut! I’m very familiar with salt and chemicals on undercarriages. Around here they spray the roads with chems if their is even the possibility of a snow flake falling. Cars are always white in the winter. I’m the crazy nut who’s washing his car at 38 degrees in the winter trying to get that stuff out of every nook and cranny. You’re right though, aluminum will be even more reactive. Thanks for the reminder!!!

[BayouBiker]

CorrosionX is your friend!

[sdwilsonsct]

Originally Posted by DAVSCH

Hello! We’re getting ready to go to Yellowstone in mid-September. I’ve heard that some passes get blanketed toward the end of the month. Park Service will insist on snow chains. I’ve got them for my truck. The ‘19 22’ FB Sport I have doesn’t, yet. Do I even need them? The Sport has standard electric brakes, that may be the driving factor. Any thoughts? Bob, your sage wisdom would be appreciated as well.

Hi Davsch, I did several long snowy trips over mountain passes last winter pulling a 16' Sport behind a Ridgeline with snow tires. I wanted snow tires for the AS, but the dealer said "buy snow socks", and in the end I never used them or felt the need for them. OTOH I drive extremely carefully on snow. Top speed for the snow socks (and maybe chains) is 30 mph.


Scott

[ROBERT CROSS]

^
I would NEVER put 'CHAINS' on a trailer. Think panel damage from just one loose connection.👎

Cables maybe, if really needed, for a short time👍

Bob
🇺🇸

[bweybright]

I suggest you google every state you plan to drive through and look at their chain requirements. Also be sure to check out any discussion about chain requirements for a drag chain on any trailer.
Personally I agree with the "stay put til clear" crowd. I have towed through the mountains in the winter and it is not my cup of tea.