Problem with tire cables

[fiveyears]

I've been a happy Vibe owner for 5+ years. During that time, I've driven numerous times in the snow--all while carrying tire cables that I never had to use.This past weekend, however, I ran into a problem.I was in a mountain town in CA where about 4-5 inches of snow had fallen overnight.I got up very early and put on the cables, then drove slowly for about 20-30 feet. Fortunately, I had the window open and was able to hear a knocking sound.I reached around one of the front tires and found that the cable was real close to a flexible hose (brake line? couldn't see it in the dark) and a metal fixture (brake caliper/mount?).Took the cables off and reinstalled even tighter, just as the instructions called for. Same deal.Before I put them on again at home and crawl underneath, I was wondering ... has anyone encountered problems putting cables on stock tires with stock 16-inch rims?The reason I'd like to solve this is many places in CA actually require chains. Yosemite in winter is one example. Snow tires aren't sufficient.Thanks.

[ou.grizzly]

Star Deceiver has some pictures posted here in this thread and it seems he has had no issues with 16" steel rimshttp://forums.genvibe.com/zerothread?id=35795Do you think the tire cables/chains may need to be replaced?

[star_deceiver]

You beat me to it!

[ou.grizzly]

Quote, originally posted by star_deceiver »You beat me to it!

[fiveyears]

The cables are brand new. Never been used on anything.

[fiveyears]

More info on the problem:Tires are Goodyear Eagle RS-A P205/55R16.The instructions that came with the cables list that tire size--but it is the largest tire they are supposed to fit.Does that matter/help?Thanks.

[star_deceiver]

We're they chains like mine or cable all around? Was the tightening end of the chains flapping around?

[fiveyears]

Pure cables. The "cross members" are cables enclosed in little metal rings.Hoping to reinstall this weekend and crawl underneath. I'll post pix if anyone is interested.Thanks.

[star_deceiver]

One of your cables could be broken. Any spinning of the tires can easily break them. The chain type are less susceptible to damage from a spinning wheel.My chains have about an inch of clearance from the strut. The brake line is much futher away. Unsure how close the chain comes to the inner part of the wheel-well with a fully turned wheel.

[fiveyears]

For those who are interested...I just put the cables on again in the driveway.My tires are the largest size the cables are supposed to fit. Which would seem to be the problem.The cables are too small. That causes the inner portion, which is supposed to more or less stay near the rim-tire line of intersection, to be pulled too far toward the center of the wheel.The inner portion of the cable is not adjustable, so there's no way to expand it.As is, they touch the brake line and almost touch the strut base.Guess I need to buy another set.

Attached files

[star_deceiver]

Now I see what you mean! Those are waaaay too small.Here's the type I have. Size 1930. They list various tire sizes from 13inch to 17inch. They don't list all the tire sizes that the chains fit. They don't list 205-55-16.

Attached files

[zionzr2]

Quote, originally posted by fiveyears »....The reason I'd like to solve this is many places in CA actually require chains. Yosemite in winter is one example. Snow tires aren't sufficient.Thanks.wow...I have never used or have needed to use cables/chains all my life. But then I've never owned a rear wheel drive, which seems to me the only type of vehicle that would better benefit from their use. I have seen some very heavy snows and never thought chains would have to be required even in a fwd.

[star_deceiver]

From Oct 1st to April 30th, all cars and light trucks driving on highways in BC must be equipped with winter tires OR carry chains. Fine of $121 and 2 points. This rule does not apply within cities, only on highways outside of city limits.

Attached files