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ZUKIWORLD Model Specific Suzuki Forum => Suzuki Samurai (All SJ Platform) 1981-1998 => Topic started by: Biggs on December 02, 2011, 11:45:20 AM

Title: Tire Chains on a 1986 Samurai
Post by: Biggs on December 02, 2011, 11:45:20 AM
I understand the factory issue tires for the '86 Samurai LWB were 205/70R15. I currently have P205/75R15 winter tires. I know these are passenger tires with a slightly larger profile, but they came with the vehicle and are new. I intend to buy/use v-bar tire chains as I live in a mountainous area and get lots of ice and snow in the winter. Has anyone used v-bar tire chains on their Samurai and had any problems? Also, I'm told that the tire chains I'm looking at are not to be used on a class S vehicle with restricted wheel well clearance. It looks to me that there is enough clearance, but I can't find information on the '86 Samurai with respect to this vehicle classification. Does anyone know the classification?

Thanks for any feedback ... Biggs.
Title: Re: Tire Chains on a 1986 Samurai
Post by: jga154 on December 02, 2011, 04:23:13 PM
I don't know about the classification, but I agree with you. There should be plenty of clearance for that type of chain, especially if you use good chain tighteners with those nearly stock tires.
Title: Re: Tire Chains on a 1986 Samurai
Post by: Zukifreek on December 02, 2011, 06:52:16 PM
The only thing to worry about is the brakelines.  As long as they don't get snagged you will have no worries.  I chained up mine last winter on 31s.  I only had 2 chains so I put them on the front.  I was chewing through 3 foot deep solid snowdrifts. 
Title: Re: Tire Chains on a 1986 Samurai
Post by: Drone637 on December 04, 2011, 12:58:36 PM
How much clearance do you have to the frame at full lock?  You might have an issue with it tearing the chains off depending.
Title: Re: Tire Chains on a 1986 Samurai
Post by: Biggs on December 08, 2011, 10:23:21 AM
I just have standard clearance. I've used these types of chains on other trucks in the past and it looks like there's enough clearance. I may put a 3-4" lift on it this summer to better accommodate snow and provide more clearance.