10 best z tire chains
Z tire chains, also known simply as tire chains or snow chains, are essential automotive accessories used in regions with heavy snowfall or icy road conditions. These chains are designed to improve traction and control for vehicles when driving on slippery surfaces, such as snow and ice. They are particularly useful for vehicles like cars, trucks, and SUVs.
Here are some key points about Z tire chains:
Traction Enhancement: The primary purpose of Z tire chains is to enhance traction on snow and ice-covered roads. They provide extra grip, reducing the chances of sliding or getting stuck.
Design: Z tire chains typically consist of a series of metal links, usually in a ladder or diamond pattern, that attach to the vehicle's tires. These links dig into the snow or ice, providing better grip.
Easy Installation: Many Z tire chains are designed for easy installation and removal. They come with instructions and can be attached to the tires without the need for special tools.
Compatibility: Z tire chains are available in various sizes and styles to fit different tire sizes and types. It's essential to select the right size and style for your vehicle to ensure proper fit and performance.
Temporary Use: Snow chains are typically intended for temporary use in challenging winter conditions. It's crucial to remove them when driving on clear, dry roads, as they can cause damage to the tires and road surfaces.
Legal Requirements: In some regions, especially those prone to heavy snowfall, the use of snow chains may be legally required during certain winter weather conditions. It's essential to be aware of local regulations and comply with them.
Alternatives: While Z tire chains are effective, there are alternative traction devices such as snow socks and tire studs that some drivers prefer based on their specific needs and preferences.
Maintenance: Proper maintenance of Z tire chains is essential to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. Regularly inspect and clean them, and store them properly when not in use.
Safety: When using Z tire chains, drivers should exercise caution and adjust their driving style to accommodate the enhanced traction. Speed should be reduced, and braking should be gentle to avoid accidents.
Overall, Z tire chains are valuable accessories for drivers in snowy and icy conditions. They can significantly improve safety and control when navigating winter roads, but it's essential to choose the right type, size, and use them according to manufacturer instructions and local regulations.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best z tire chains on the marketProduct description
For more than a decade Z-Chain has been the winter traction product choice for police, fire, ambulance and other professional fleets throughout North America. Z-Chain’s fast installation, aggressive traction performance and extreme durability simply out-class all other options.
The SCC Super Z6 SZ143 winter traction product offers superior performance for cars, pickups, and SUVs with very limited operating clearance around the drive tires. Be ready for winter driving with an innovative solution that is a step beyond traditional tire chains.
New Design
Based on the "Z" family of products, the Super Z6 is designed for vehicles with restricted clearance around the drive tires. The Super Z6 requires only 6.33 millimeters (.25 inches) of sidewall clearance to operate, less than half the space required by most cable and tire chains.
Easy to Install
A split outside cable with two fastening positions allows for easy installation without moving the vehicle, so there's no need to stop and retighten. The traction coils are manufactured from alloy steel to increase the lifespan of the product. The Super Z6 is also designed to prevent scratching of alloy or high performance tire rims.
Versatility
The Super Z6 is available to fit passenger cars, pickups, and SUV tire sizes. It offers a unique combination of performance and convenience features for every user, including a "designed-in" rubber tightener, better all-around traction performance than conventional tire chains or cables, and greater durability.
Designed for High Performance
The Super Z6 has better compatibility with anti-lock brakes, traction control, all-wheel drive, and other electronically monitored control systems so as not to interfere with the normal handling characteristics of your vehicle. The unique design also offers a low potential for damage to vehicle body and mechanical components, even when abused.
The Super Z6 SZ143 is designed for tires sized from approximately 215 to 285 millimeters. Check the manufacturer's website for the exact product to fit your tire size. Also check your owner's manual for clearance specifications before installing winter traction products.
What's in the Box
Chains, plastic gloves, one pair of rubber tensioners, durable, re-usable nylon bag, and clear, illustrated step-by-step installation and removal instructions.
- Please refer to the Application Guide under Technical Specification or product images and for fitment details, and product video for installation instructions.
- Designed for cars, pickups, and SUVs with very limited operating clearance around the drive tires
- Fast easy installation with no need to move the vehicle
- Designed-in rubber tightener means there is no need to stop and retighten after installation
- Better all-around traction performance than conventional tire chains or cables
- Better compatibility with anti-lock brakes, traction control, all-wheel drive, and other electronically monitored control systems
User questions & answers
Question: | The chains fit but I'm only strong enough to fasten three of the six tightener hooks. Can I drive with them fastened that way |
Answer: | Try driving slowly for a mile, then retry tightening the other three. If you can't, then I'd advise really limiting your speed. |
Question: | wat size is |
Answer: | If you are asking what the numbers mean, 265 is width in mm, 70 is ratio of width to sidewall heigth and 18" is inside diameter of tire. This would take a Z-583 cable set which is what the type that I use and are very easy to install |
Question: | What size do I need to get for Sienna Toyota Tire Sieze P235, 60R |
Answer: | Use the scc website tire chain finder so you can see different model option that will fit your tire and one of model is Super Z6 SZ143.http://www.scc-chain.com/tire-chain-finder/traction/tirechains |
Question: | does the cable come with the tightener |
Answer: | Yes it comes with the tightener. It works fine in the mud for which I bought. Its installation is very easy. I use it in a Cheyenne 1500 pick up. |
Product description
For more than a decade Z-Chain has been the winter traction product choice for police, fire, ambulance and other professional fleets throughout North America. Z-Chain’s fast installation, aggressive traction performance and extreme durability simply out-class all other options. Tire chains should be fitted to the tires before actual use is required. Fitment can be affected by age of tire, tire manufacturer and/or tread type.
- Manganese alloy cross members provide superior, all-around traction performance and greater durability compared to conventional traction products
- Fast, secure installation and removal, with no need to move the vehicle
- Better compatibility with anti-lock brakes, traction control, all-wheel drive (AWD) and other electronically monitored control systems
- Meets S.A.E. Class “S” clearance requirements or vehicles with limited clearance
- Low potential for damage to vehicle body and mechanical components, even when abused
- Chain tensioners should not be used
User questions & answers
Question: | What tire sizes with these Z-583 chains fit |
Answer: | I put mine on a 2004 Honda Element, with tire size P-215/70 R-16 99T. Not sure what all those numbers mean, but that's what they say on the side. I can easily cinch them up to the tightest adjustment, so if your tires are a little larger, you'll be ok. If your tires are smaller, they probably won't work. |
Question: | Will these fit 305/45r |
Answer: | not sure. I ended up calling the manufacturer because this website said they would not fit my truck. they fit. |
Question: | I used the reference chart for my 2017 f-250 (lt275/65/18) and ordered the z-583. amazon order says "this does not fit your __truck__". why |
Answer: | Maybe that is not an OEM tire and wheel combination for that vehicle, I don't know, you may need to call the company help line. |
Question: | Will this fit a 275/50r |
Answer: | I don’t think so the one’s I ordered for my ram were a tight fit and the tires are 20’s |
Product description
Super Z LT (ZT700 series) is Super Z’s companion product for sport/utility vehicles and pickups. The patented design is the same asSuper Z, but features larger and tougher components. Like Super Z, Super Z LT also features a “designed-in” rubber tensioner so there is no need to stop and retighten. Super Z LT, Z-Chain and Super Z8 are the only light truck traction products to meet Class “S” clearance requirements for vehicles with limited or low clearance. It’s the most effective product available for SUVs and pick-up trucks with ABS, All-wheel drives, 4x4s and anti-lock brakes. Super Z LT’s plastic package includes rubber tensioners, step-by-step illustration for product installation/removal and waterproof gloves.
- Fastest, easiest installation of any traction product
- Built-in rubber tensioner means there is no need to stop and retighten after installation
- Better all-around traction performance than conventional tire chains or cables
- Greater durability than conventional tire chains or cables
- Better compatibility with anti-lock brakes, traction control, all-wheel drive (AWD) and other electronically monitored control systems
- Meets S.A.E. Class “S” clearance requirements or vehicles with limited clearance
- Low potential for damage to vehicle body and mechanical components, even when abused
- It features a diagonal cross member pattern that provides all-around traction and durability
User questions & answers
Question: | Why won't these fit any 19"? But, they fit 18 and |
Answer: | It is 700 lbs total weight load on the bench. If you are lifting 300 lbs, you can weight 400 lbs:) |
Question: | Do these chains come with a container |
Answer: | The bench is made to fit up to a 2" diameter barbell, but can also hold a 1" as well. The space in between the upright brackets is 40 inches, so you need a bar that is able to span the width of that. Day 1 Fitness Olympic barbells are 51.6" across to the sleeves, so they will fit comfortably in the upright brackets! |
Question: | Do I need 1 set (2) or 2 sets |
Answer: | It’s an Olympic size weight bench that holds a 7’ Olympic bar. |
Question: | Do these come with the tensioner or is that seperate |
Answer: | It will be 52" tall by 48" wide by 68" inches deep (from top of back support to end of leg curl assembly) |
Product description
Shur Grip Z is a patented SCC product that is designed to meet the traction product needs of the everyday consumer and is available to fit most passenger car tire sizes. Shur Grip Z offers a unique combination of performance and convenience features for every user. Full-metallic friction material.
- Shur Grip Z class S cable chains
- Fast and easy installation with included rubber tighteners
- Better all-around traction performance than conventional cable or link chain
- For use on most passenger vehicles
- Offers a smooth ride
User questions & answers
Question: | I want to make sure the sz343 will fit my 2015 subaru forester tire size 225/60r |
Answer: | They will fit. I just installed them on my 18 XT with 225/55/18, which is only 1/10 of an inch different from your size, and with the rubber tighteners it will accommodate this difference. |
Question: | do I need to buy 2 set for my car ?or I can use only the front side |
Answer: | Typically tire chains are only installed on the drive wheels. This means front wheels on "front wheel " drive or rear wheels on the older "rear wheel" drive cars or pick-up trucks. And remember, when using tire chains or cables SLOW DOWN. There will be a recommended maximum speed enclosed with your chains or cables. Don't even think about driving normal speed with chains or cables on. Also practice installing them BEFORE you actually need them. You need to be familiar with this before you need them.joe |
Question: | does this come with the rubber tightner as pictured |
Answer: | Yes, the large rubber O-ring with plastic clips is included. It is required - the chains won't work without it. The cable chains are sized to fit the tire with enough slack to allow you to connect the metal links while the tire remains on the ground. The O-ring draws the cable chain very tight, the final plastic clip requires effort to attach. |
Question: | Can meat be left on your tires I do a lot of highway driving |
Answer: | Never put meat on your tires. First, it becomes largely inedible from all the dirt grime on the road. If you want thin sliced meat, many Mexican style grocers sell thin cut meats at very fair prices. Second, if using a meat like Bacon, it has a tendency to get very slippery when draped on the tire. It's hard to find bacon in long enough lengths to cover the tire. Ground meat is a no go. While you can get it for a low cost, the ground meat plugs the tread on the tires and flings off, sticking inside the wheel well and on the under body. This meat gets rancid, rots, and attracts vermin. The best place to store meat is in a cooler in your car, but only for short periods of time. Never store meat on the tires. |
Product description
Super Z is designed with commercial users in mind. Super Z comes in sized to fit commercial highway and traction tires, as well as many specialized tire applications. Manganese alloy traction coils give superior traction performance compared to conventional cable or link tire chains.
- Fastest, easiest installation of any traction product
- Built-in rubber tensioner means there is no need to stop and retighten after installation
- Better all-around traction performance than conventional tire chains or cables
- Greater durability than conventional tire chains or cables
- Better compatibility with anti-lock brakes, traction control, all-wheel drive (AWD) and other electronically monitored control systems
- Meets S.A.E. Class “S” clearance requirements or vehicles with limited clearance
- Low potential for damage to vehicle body and mechanical components, even when abused
User questions & answers
Question: | does these provide rim protection |
Answer: | Look up your tire size, usually located in the drivers door panel or on the tire. If your tire size is a 16", they will fit. |
Question: | Do these fit Semi truck super single tires |
Answer: | Did not get |
Question: | Would it be necessary to put an extra bungee cord or 2 on these super Z chains |
Answer: | Yes, with a quick Google search for "2011 Ford escape lug nut thread size" it appears M12x1. 50 is the correct size. |
Question: | i own this product and i need parts ( couple of cross links broke) where can i find some info.about it |
Answer: | Yes. This is the correct fitment for your 2019 Mazda CX-5 |
Product description
The first snowstorm of the year drives everyone on the road into a frantic mess. Don't follow the masses, confidently brave the roads with the Super Z-6 SZ135 Durable Compact Cable Tire Snow Chain Set. Thanks to the minimal operating space required, this chain is a smart choice for cars, pickup trucks, or SUVs with limited operating clearance around the drive tires. These chains have rubber tensioners designed-in, so you don't need to worry about stopping to retighten them after installation. Lightweight and durable, these chains will keep you and your family safe on slick winter roads with better traction and brake performance.
- Quantity: 4
- Manufacturer warranty: 1-year warranty
- Color: Silver
- Fits the following tire sizes: 7.50-14LT, 8.5-14LT, 215/50-18, 27x8.50-14LT, 27x8.50-15, LT185/75-16, 185/75-16C, 195-15LT, 195/75-15, 195/80-15, 205-14, 205-14C, 205-15, 205/60-17.5, 205/65-15C, 215/60-16, 215/65-15, 215/65-15C, 215/65-16, 215/70-14, 215/70-15, 215/70-15C, 215/75-14, 215/75-14C, 220/60-17, 220/65-390, 225/70-14, 235/60-15, 235/75-14, 245/60-14, 255/30-19, 255/35-18, 255/45-16, 255/50-15, 265/50-14, 275/35-17, 285/30-18, FR78-15, GR78-15
- Note: Chain tensioners are required for these chains and are included
Product description
The first snowstorm of the year drives everyone on the road into a frantic mess. Don't follow the masses, confidently brave the roads with the Super Z-8 SZ492 Durable Compact Cable Tire Snow Chain Set. Thanks to the minimal operating space required, this chain is a smart choice for cars, pickup trucks, or SUVs with limited operating clearance around the drive tires. These chains have rubber tensioners designed-in, so you don't need to worry about stopping to retighten them after installation. Lightweight and durable, these chains will keep you and your family safe on slick winter roads with better traction and brake performance.
- Color: Silver
- Quantity: 2 sets, 4 total
- Manufacturer warranty: 1-year warranty
- Note: Chain tensioners are required for these chains and are included
- Fits the following tire sizes: 8.25-20, 9-22.5, 12-16.5NHS, 35x12.50-17, 35x12.50-18, 35x13.50-15LT, 35x13.50-20LT, 36x12.50-15LT, 36x12.50-16.5LT, 37x12.50-15LT, 37x12.50-16.5LT, 37x12.50-17, 37x12.50-20LT, 37x13.50-20, 38x10.50-152, 35/80-22.5, 245/75-22.5, 245/80-22.5, 37x12.5-18, 255/75-22.5, 275/50-24, 285/75-18LT, 285/75-18, 285/80-17, 295/65-20LT, 295/65-20, 295/75-17.5, 305/50-22, 305/70-18, 305/75-17LT, 315/70-17, 325/60-20, 325/65-18, 325/80-16, 345/70-18, 355/50-22.5
Product description
Driving in the winter in perilous, icy, or even snowy conditions can be tricky. Make driving in treacherous conditions a bit easier with the help of the Peerless Z575 Z-Chain Snow Tire Chains. These chains are designed to help give your passenger vehicle or light truck better traction and control in tough conditions. The chains featuer a diagonal pattern and are crafted with alloy cross member construction. The magansee alloy steel gives these chains added durability in order to hold up over a long, cold winter. And as always, Peerless chains meet "S" clearance requirements. Prepare your vehicle for driving in tough conditions this winter with these tire chains from Peerless.
- Equip your vehicle with better traction in snow and winter weather
- Fastening system requireds the side member to be adjusted in 2 places
- Easy installation and removal takes just minutes
- Alloy cross member construction
- Meets class 'S' clearance requirements
Product description
This SCC Rubber Tightener is for use with select Shur Super Z LT and Super Z6 traction tire chains. Replace your lost or broken tighteners, or you may want to keep a spare set on hand just in case. It is sold in pairs.
- 2 tighteners per bag
- “This is a spare rubber tensioner sold in pairs used for the following traction Z cable chains. SZ435 Thru SZ451 and ZT735 Thru ZT751”
- Replace your lost or broken tighteners
- Good idea to keep a backup set on hand
User questions & answers
Question: | will the tighener SZ1176 fit Tire size 22 x |
Answer: | When I purchased these tighteners, they came as a pair. I bought two packages for my four chains. |
Question: | Can these be used for any cable chain, or are they specific to security chain products |
Answer: | I'm sure that will work fine. I have a four-wheel drive car and truck and I usually just put the chains on the front. If the ice is really, really bad, I put them on all four. 90% of the time, putting them on the front two is fine. |
Question: | What is the diameter of the rubber? Does it work for a SZ 143 model |
Answer: | It was 2 adjusters... 1 pair. |
Question: | Are the yellow clips plastic? Anyone have those break off |
Answer: | Yes. I love mine. Also buy rubber tensioners for each separate tire. Throw an old tarp in your trunk so will have something dry to lie upon while you fasten the chains on the tires. |
Product description
Limited clearance cable tire snow chains for most makes models of passenger automobiles.
- Case hardened steel rollers on cable cross members
- Suitable for front and rear wheel drive vehicles
- Type "S" limited clearance; Light weight and easy to install
- Meets all state requirements for cable traction devices
- Will NOT void vehicle warranty
- NOTE: Tire chains are made for THE CORRECT SIZE TIRES, not simply YEAR MAKE MODEL of the cars
User questions & answers
Question: | Can you leave them on my tires I do a lot of highway driving |
Answer: | no, can't drive them over 30 mph, or on dry pavement. mine broke on the first use and cost me $2000 in damage to my car. i'd look at another brand, but the answer to your question is going to be the same for all chains. get snow tires and possibly 4wd if you drive a lot on snow |
Question: | Will it fit 195 60r |
Answer: | Yes. I love mine. Also buy rubber tensioners for each separate tire. Throw an old tarp in your trunk so will have something dry to lie upon while you fasten the chains on the tires. |
Question: | Do I need set of 2 for my car or set of 4 to meet state regulations |
Answer: | I live in Lake Tahoe. Last year the law with regard to 4WD vehicles. Chains are now required on all 4WD vehicles that are not equipped with ATV tires. Prior to going over any of the passes, the CHP checks every car and absolutely no exceptions are granted. Even with a 4WD vehicle equipped with ATV tires things can get real ugly real quick. Spend the extra money and buy a good set. Installing them on both front and rear axles will give you even greater traction and lessen your odds of joining the trail of carnage that occurs every year.... |
Question: | do these go on the front tires?.......my car is frontwheel drive |
Answer: | Yes |
Product features
Glacier Cable Chains for Passenger car SAE Class S
Tough carbon steel rollers provide traction and long wear. The low profile steel rollers allow increased tire-to-road contact, resulting in better stability, plus a considerable reduction in noise and vibration. Electro-galvanized coating for rust protection.
- For vehicles with limited clearance
- SAE>
- Easy installation
- Ladder style cable chain
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