Last Sunday I drove up toward Big Bear Lake in my 4wd SUV. As there was still a little winter storm activity, CalTrans had put up the Chains Required signs. 4WD vehicles are generally exempt from those chain requirements so I had no problem. But, if I had been driving the MCS, I would have needed to install chains to go any farther.

I've searched this forum and I've seen numerous suggestions for good winter tires, but no posts regarding installing and living with tire chains. When they say I must install chains, what chains are best?

 

Personally wouldn't even think about driving in the mountains in the winter without winter tires.

You can get chains right from BMW/MINI. They are Rud brand, and since BMW sells them, I'm guessing they are superior quality. Here's the BMW diagram. http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...93&hg=36&fg=95

Rud's website: http://www.rud.com/en/produkte/schneeketten/pkw.html

I see they are only for 175 width tires though (the ones sold by BMW). My guess is the 175 mm tire limit is due to strut clearance on the inner side of the wheel. Check out the Rud Centrax if that's the case.

 

There are also "Traction Cables". An alternative to chain, I've been told they are cheaper, lighter and easier to install than the typical chains. I'm not sure if there are any other advantages or disadvantages, just a suggestion!

 

How much are the Ruds?

I had thought tire chains on the MSC was a MINI "no-no".

That said... I bought a set of these for that "wost case scenario":

http://www.vulcantire.com/cgi-bin/ch...=chainz6_c.htm

Basiclly for when the decision is between a "Donner Party" situation or throwing on some chains and pushing on. They are specificlly for cars with plus-sized wheels & tires, or cars that have been lowered and have limited clearence. I've used them on my work car. Easy on and very durable. Like any chain, keep it under 30 mph.