X3 snow chains/cables

[Danusunt]

Ski season is here. When I bought my car, I remember reading or hearing something about using specific chains for the X3. I called BMW and they of course recommended their $500+ chains.

Not gonna happen.

The parts guys said it isn't necessary to use the BMW chains (he doesn't) but to be carefull not to get thick chains, and to get low profile cables.

Anybody?

Thanks.

Danusunt

[MysticBlueX3]

Yeah I'm looking for chains myself. Anyone other there gotten chains? I have the 18" Y-spoke wheels. Also whats better, cable or chains?

[Kewl X5]

Here is a recent thread re: the same issue for the X5....check it out...

http://www.xoutpost.com/x5-e53-forum/...ghlight=chains

[Danusunt]

So here's what I found . . .

Cables seems to have a lower profile, and being that the X3 doesn't need that much help (really we're just pacifying the Fuzz), better to be safe for the car. The S classification covers cars that don't have a lot of clearence around the tire, so I ordered cables that fulfill this requirment. Does the X3 require S class? I doubt it - I could fit full size bread boxes ontop of my tires in the wheel well. But if this is the lowest profile, I'll take it to keep BMW from freakin out.

I'm not sure if I trust cables that do not require tighteners. Some models do not and, well, chains and cables stretch, so I went with a tightened version that I have more tightening control over.

I got the SCC Super Z6, which claims to work with anti-lock break systems. $80 a pair, and I'll figure out if they are more effective on the front or rear tires. I suspect the rear. (I have control over correcting the front tires, but if I lose traction in the rear, I'm FUBAR - all wheel drive or not.)

In the past I've had chain dissasters (chewed up a SAAB and a Jetta). Now I know not to hit 70 mph and everything should be alright. Side's, if'n I find myself needing chains at all in an X3, it's because something serious is happening.

BTW, I found the thread under search - great advice. Thanks.

[B&DCalgary]

What kind of snow depths are you guys talking about that would require you to put on chains? I've only ever need them once in my life, on a RWD in two feet of snow.

[MysticBlueX3]

Its not like the X3 actually need chains but here in California, during certain weather conditons (defined by the state), cops put up road blocks. If you don't have chains, they won't let you pass, 4WD or not.