I am looking to get a set of Snow chains to have in the car for the upcoming season. I live in Arizona so I will not using them often but there are for sure times I'll need them during storms up to the top of Snowbowl. I have a 2013 Cooper S with stock 17" wheels. Any info is greatly appreciated!!!!

 

Be VERY VERY cautious. My understanding is that chains and cables will only work on stock 15" wheels with stock tires. The problem is clearance between tires and suspension components and fenders. Wider tires can rub against the struts. Taller tires can rub against the fenders. Remember that centrifugal force with expand the chains - even at low speeds. So verify - and verify again. You probably also have an issue even using 15" wheels on an S.

 

Ecs has chain-less chains if that makes any sense. They are slip on fabric traction enhancers.

 

We have the ISSE Textile Snow 'Chains' Check the sizes for fitment. The smalls and mediums fit most MINI sizes. Check out the videos.

http://www.ecstuning.com/Mini-2007-Cooper-R56-S-Coupe-L4_1.6L_N14B16A/Wheels/Snow_Chains/




No for high speeds or dry roads.

MINI has there own version:

Snow Socks: 36110154477



Only suitable for tire size
195/55 R16
205/45 R17
205/40 R18


And then finally real snow chains made by rudmatic chains part # 36110140042



Only for tire size:
175/ 65 R16
175/60 R16
185/50 R17


Thanks

 

:

 

Thanks for the info, those snow socks look pretty strange. Do they really grip at all? I watched some videos, but still seems kind of strange. Do you know if any of the Thule Snow Chains would work? I can Pro Form from them for a big discount so I am trying to find out if those will work also.

Thanks again!

 

You are welcome, sizes are labeled. The ISSE Snow Sock do work, its all about surface area and material grip friction, kind of cool. MINI even has a factory version. All low speeds. Don't know about Thule , We just have the ones above. which are for a very skinny 17" wheel.

 

chains on my rota's , NO way. If I had to travel in snow on occasion I would buy some cheap rims and snow tires.

 

Chains are HELL on the tires and rims....they break and tear sheet metal (the chains do fail from wear or hitting a rock---then act like a weapon till you stop), they stretch and rub....
I suggest you get snow tires....chains are pretty outdated, and getting very rare since modern snow tires are so good, even on smooth ice...
I wonder if you will have the ground clearance to even NEED the traction the chains will give you....
Might want to consider renting a car or riding with a friend....

 

If you do decide to get snow tire and steelies , those are great for full winters. Also if you know you are going to be in a snow area all the time.
If you need the snow sock for a emergency or a back up for once or twice.. couple times insurance, they come in handy and slip on/off easy.

 

Thanks again everyone! I am leaning towards the socks right now. I cant afford snow tires just yet. My plan has been to save up for "Cool" rims and put good non run flats on those and then put snow tires on my stock rims next season. I dont think ill actually need to use them much. Just some times patrol won't let you drive up even if you don't have them in your car just incase.

I am also looking at this set from Thule. It looks very low profile and does not wrap around the back of the wheel. I am not concerned that it is expensive because I can get it at wholesale with my shop discount. Any thoughts on this system?

http://www.thule.com/en-us/us/produc...k11-_-04505711

Thanks again!

 

Never seen it in action, the ISSE socks work good in light to heavy snow. Short low speed trips. If you get snow levels near the bumper, snow tires and studs are a must. ( don't use snow sock with studded tires ) And it will still be hard. The snow sock won't take up much room.

Good luck whatever you decide.

 

Ok that sounds good! I will only need them for short low seed trips, about 10 mile drives at under 35mph is when I would need them most. I live in the Phoenix Valley so snow is not an issue, its just when I drive up North that I could get to a spot that needs them. Thanks again!

 

Yes - you can - a used set is way cheaper than your insurance deductible.

And you will need the latter if the weather calls for snow tires and instead you are trying to make do with chains, socks, or wheel condoms.

Put it on a credit card, if you must.
Either that, or stay home when the whether gets out of hand.

a

 

I understand what you are saying. I'll ad some more info to the situation. I have to drive 2 hours on perfectly fine highway roads to get to the mountain town. Then its a 6 mile drive up the hill. That is the only part that would need snow tires/chains. I work 2 jobs so I can only go on the weekend which is when most of the road clearing is done.

If I buy snow tires, wouldn't I be using them up on the dry pavement. I was thinking something like the socks would help me get out of the parking lot, down the hill and then i could take em off and cruise back down to the valley. Keep in mind I am in Arizona so I won't exactly be driving through any blizzards. And if its seriously storming and I "need" to get out I plan to trade my sister for her Countryman for the day.

 

We are getting 17" tires and wheel for wife 2011 clubman but will keep the stock 15 incher's for the snow will get a set of approve cable chains for trips over the Sierra's They are pretty strict as to what they will allow out here. The dealer gave me recommendation on which one to get. I have a set for each of my vehicles and will have a set for "LULU" that will be kept down in the hole with the spare.

Tom