Env_Engr

Hi:

MY RX 350 is a 2008 FWD with 18 inch wheels. I am driving from Pasadena to Lake Tahoe during this Christmas time and learnt that we have to have snow chains in the car, especially during that time of the year. I would like to know which type of snow chains (heard Z type are best!) are best suited for RX 350 - 18 inch wheels? I have never used snow chains on any car before. Any guidance would be appreciated.

Thanks,
SVK

nparmelee

Been a few years since I had to use chains, but yes, look for the z-type, they are easier to get on and off. If you go to a store that sells them, they'll have the info on what you need to buy for your tires. And living in Reno, you may not even need them depending on when you come up this way, it can be hit or miss, but it's best to carry them. I've seen too many people up here driving as if they have all wheel drive when they don't and they can be pretty scary. Our Lexus dealer only sells the AWD drive version here.

Lextranny

Do not use the chains instead use the cable Z-type. They are easy to install and better for your tires.

cariesfree

I'm gonna hit Nevada soon too. If stopped, how do we prove that our AWD is an AWD? Thanks.

Lexmex

They'll realistically have to look under the vehicle to see this shaft going to the rear. In Mexico, I occasionally go up some mountains and the military or other local authorities will stop you unless that you can prove you have 4x4 or AWD and I just get out and point underneath and they wave me on.

nparmelee

For going over the Sierras, nobody has ever asked me to prove that I have AWD, I just tell them I do and they wave me on through, sometimes they just looked at the car and waved me on through. I guess you could keep the window sticker from the purchase with you in the owners manual folder if you carry that. The '04 handled great in the snow, hope the '08 is just as good.

cariesfree

How fast/slow were you driving over snow? I'm not a risk taker but just curious at what speed it is safe to drive.

Thanks, Lexmex. That's very helpful. I got stopped several times with my other 4WD but it has the emblem in the back so they let us go.

kent912

Is the link below the Z-chain you guys talk about?

http://tinyurl.com/2vb57d

Thanks,
Kent

Lextranny

That's the one! wow...they want $104 bucks. I only got it for $50 at a local auto store.

RX330inFL

In addition to looking as previously noted, doesn't the 4th digit of the VIN indicate body style and perhaps FWD vs. AWD? Have not seen a decoder for Lexus VIN numbers so am unsure. Anyone out there have the breakdowns?

Env_Engr

I am planning to order Super Z6 instead of the Z-chain as you have posted. Here is the link. Is this okay to buy?

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

Jim06lexus

The operator's manual for my RX330 AWD says to put chains on the front only. I'm wondering the reason why they can't be used on the rear wheels also to improve handling. Does it have something to do with the sensors?

kent912

Can anyone confirm that a 2008 RX 350 AWD only needs snow chain in the front, not rear? I have read through the post about RX330 but it seems 350 has a different AWD system.

Thanks,
Kent

Grumpa72

Looks like a case of "less is more". Better clearance and they look the same yet they cost less?

How's that work?

kent912

Hi,

I purchased that chain from Amazon at even lower price. However, the kit only contains 2 chains instead of 4. I have a 2008 RX 350 AWD with all season tires. Do you guys think I will need to purchase another pair for the rear wheels? What do you guys think? I am getting mixed recommendations on the board.

Thanks,
Kent