Tire Chains for Snow

[TiggerTrigger]

We'll be heading from LA up to Mammoth Lakes (and back) and will need to have tire chains just in case. I know places like Walmart, AutoZone, and Pep Boys may carry them, but does anyone know of any specific store locations that stock them? I'd prefer if it's closer to LAX just so we can take care of this early, but really any place along the way before we head up into the mountainous areas would work. Thanks! Losing my mind over this part of our trip!

 

[bcla]

I'd ask about the policy on using chains. Some rental agencies don't allow them and might apply a penalty if they find damage beyond just the cost of the damage. Of course you'll also need to know the tire size.

I would be surprised if the big name auto parts stores (Pep Boys, AutoZone, O'Reilly's) didn't have some in stock, but there's always the chance that they run out of your size. I picked a random set (I have no idea what size you'll need) of tire cables at Walmart, and it says it's available for pickup tonight at 4101 Crenshaw Blvd and two other locations in the area. So it looks like they have them in stock. Other sizes showed pickup for tomorrow, so I'm guessing they would be delivered from a local warehouse and wouldn't be in stock. Even if it doesn't snow in the area, there are plenty of people in the area who go up to Mammoth and Big Bear.

Most of the cheaper chains/cables are going to be the ladder type, which are really, really hard to put on. I remember following the directions in the garage and I couldn't get it on. However, they're cheap if you get them at a discount store. If you need to put them on, you might just want to hire one of the licensed chain installers (aka "chain monkeys") on the side of the road at major chain checkpoints. They might do it differently than the instructions - such as laying them out and driving over them.

 

[usnuzuloose]

There is an Auto zone on 10110 south Hawthorne blvd . It is 3.4 miles from the airport. Phone number is 310.412.8166. Hope this helps

 

[usnuzuloose]

I'd ask about the policy on using chains. Some rental agencies don't allow them and might apply a penalty if they find damage beyond just the cost of the damage. Of course you'll also need to know the tire size.

I would be surprised if the big name auto parts stores (Pep Boys, AutoZone, O'Reilly's) didn't have some in stock, but there's always the chance that they run out of your size. I picked a random set (I have no idea what size you'll need) of tire cables at Walmart, and it says it's available for pickup tonight at 4101 Crenshaw Blvd and two other locations in the area. So it looks like they have them in stock. Other sizes showed pickup for tomorrow, so I'm guessing they would be delivered from a local warehouse and wouldn't be in stock. Even if it doesn't snow in the area, there are plenty of people in the area who go up to Mammoth and Big Bear.

Most of the cheaper chains/cables are going to be the ladder type, which are really, really hard to put on. I remember following the directions in the garage and I couldn't get it on. However, they're cheap if you get them at a discount store. If you need to put them on, you might just want to hire one of the licensed chain installers (aka "chain monkeys") on the side of the road at major chain checkpoints. They might do it differently than the instructions - such as laying them out and driving over them.

They charge an arm and leg for chains also. Easier to buy them at the store. But not a problem finding the people to put them on for him. They could always call there own insurance company and get that coverage as well. Better to have it than not.

 

[bcla]

They charge an arm and leg for chains also. Easier to buy them at the store. But not a problem finding the people to put them on for him. They could always call there own insurance company and get that coverage as well. Better to have it than not.

I wasn't necessarily suggesting buying chains from one of the chain monkeys, but letting them install something bought in advance. However, if all you've got is ladder type chains, then they'll probably do a better job and have all the equipment (pads, gloves, etc).

I have a set of Z-type chains that are supposed to be much easier to install, especially since they don't need to be adjusted after a short drive. However, I bought them on Amazon.com pretty cheap. I've seen them in stores and they are much pricier. What I have are these:

 

[usnuzuloose]

I wasn't necessarily suggesting buying chains from one of the chain monkeys, but letting them install something bought in advance. However, if all you've got is ladder type chains, then they'll probably do a better job and have all the equipment (pads, gloves, etc).

I have a set of Z-type chains that are supposed to be much easier to install, especially since they don't need to be adjusted after a short drive. However, I bought them on Amazon.com pretty cheap. I've seen them in stores and they are much pricier. What I have are these:

I know you didn't , I was just referring if you wait to buy them from them they charge an arm and a leg. I learned my lesson the hard way…. But I now purchase insurance from my own insurance so I know I am covered.

 

[TiggerTrigger]

I'd ask about the policy on using chains. Some rental agencies don't allow them and might apply a penalty if they find damage beyond just the cost of the damage. Of course you'll also need to know the tire size.

I would be surprised if the big name auto parts stores (Pep Boys, AutoZone, O'Reilly's) didn't have some in stock, but there's always the chance that they run out of your size. I picked a random set (I have no idea what size you'll need) of tire cables at Walmart, and it says it's available for pickup tonight at 4101 Crenshaw Blvd and two other locations in the area. So it looks like they have them in stock. Other sizes showed pickup for tomorrow, so I'm guessing they would be delivered from a local warehouse and wouldn't be in stock. Even if it doesn't snow in the area, there are plenty of people in the area who go up to Mammoth and Big Bear.

Most of the cheaper chains/cables are going to be the ladder type, which are really, really hard to put on. I remember following the directions in the garage and I couldn't get it on. However, they're cheap if you get them at a discount store. If you need to put them on, you might just want to hire one of the licensed chain installers (aka "chain monkeys") on the side of the road at major chain checkpoints. They might do it differently than the instructions - such as laying them out and driving over them.

I appreciate it. I am aware that most of the rental agencies don't permit chain usage. In fact, back when I thought we were flying into Mammoth, the car I'd rented up there prohibited chains...which would have been interesting, since I noticed the road to our hotel had 2 chain enforcement areas today. Still, it's a chance we may have to take and I just want to be prepared just in case. And of course, we'll have to wait until we have said car to know our exact tire size to ensure we get the proper chains...since that seems to be one of the biggest causes of damage. I've seen a lot of people who choose to put them on the rental and take the chance and a number of others who sit back and wait it out. I'm hoping we will see great weather on our travel days, but the reality is it's winter and there are higher than avg snow projections with el Nino this year.

I was hoping that enough locals frequented Mammoth and Big Bear for stores to stock these supplies. It only makes sense, but I just didn't want to hit every Walmart and Pep Boys in the area to try and find them. I appreciate you looking and will add that Walmart address to my trip notes.

I was planning on hiring a licensed chain installer. It seemed like the best plan since I've never had to install chains. I spent 4 years in Syracuse, NY with tons of snow, but never was required to use chains...so, I'm a bit uneasy with all of this and just trying to prep as best as possible.

There is an Auto zone on 10110 south Hawthorne blvd . It is 3.4 miles from the airport. Phone number is 310.412.8166. Hope this helps

I appreciate it! I will add that info to my notes. We were planning on buying them in the LA area just so we don't fall victim to price gauging on chains. I don't mind paying for the installation and removal, but I don't want to drop a fortune on the purchase of them either.

Thanks!!!

 

[usnuzuloose]

I appreciate it. I am aware that most of the rental agencies don't permit chain usage. In fact, back when I thought we were flying into Mammoth, the car I'd rented up there prohibited chains...which would have been interesting, since I noticed the road to our hotel had 2 chain enforcement areas today. Still, it's a chance we may have to take and I just want to be prepared just in case. And of course, we'll have to wait until we have said car to know our exact tire size to ensure we get the proper chains...since that seems to be one of the biggest causes of damage. I've seen a lot of people who choose to put them on the rental and take the chance and a number of others who sit back and wait it out. I'm hoping we will see great weather on our travel days, but the reality is it's winter and there are higher than avg snow projections with el Nino this year.

I was hoping that enough locals frequented Mammoth and Big Bear for stores to stock these supplies. It only makes sense, but I just didn't want to hit every Walmart and Pep Boys in the area to try and find them. I appreciate you looking and will add that Walmart address to my trip notes.

I was planning on hiring a licensed chain installer. It seemed like the best plan since I've never had to install chains. I spent 4 years in Syracuse, NY with tons of snow, but never was required to use chains...so, I'm a bit uneasy with all of this and just trying to prep as best as possible.



I appreciate it! I will add that info to my notes. We were planning on buying them in the LA area just so we don't fall victim to price gauging on chains. I don't mind paying for the installation and removal, but I don't want to drop a fortune on the purchase of them either.

Thanks!!!

Maybe you could call them before hand to make sure they have the ones you need, and if not they will direct you to one of the stores that will have them in stock.

 

[TiggerTrigger]

Maybe you could call them before hand to make sure they have the ones you need, and if not they will direct you to one of the stores that will have them in stock.

I have a plan along those lines. I know my local AutoZone is pretty good at handling things like this, so I would assume others can do the same. Walmart is a bit more hit or miss.

 

[bcla]

I appreciate it. I am aware that most of the rental agencies don't permit chain usage. In fact, back when I thought we were flying into Mammoth, the car I'd rented up there prohibited chains...which would have been interesting, since I noticed the road to our hotel had 2 chain enforcement areas today. Still, it's a chance we may have to take and I just want to be prepared just in case. And of course, we'll have to wait until we have said car to know our exact tire size to ensure we get the proper chains...since that seems to be one of the biggest causes of damage. I've seen a lot of people who choose to put them on the rental and take the chance and a number of others who sit back and wait it out. I'm hoping we will see great weather on our travel days, but the reality is it's winter and there are higher than avg snow projections with el Nino this year.

I was hoping that enough locals frequented Mammoth and Big Bear for stores to stock these supplies. It only makes sense, but I just didn't want to hit every Walmart and Pep Boys in the area to try and find them. I appreciate you looking and will add that Walmart address to my trip notes.

I was planning on hiring a licensed chain installer. It seemed like the best plan since I've never had to install chains. I spent 4 years in Syracuse, NY with tons of snow, but never was required to use chains...so, I'm a bit uneasy with all of this and just trying to prep as best as possible.

Up there I'd think that roads would be salted. There's none of that in California. I mentioned the installers. They dress in high visibility clothes (getting run over is an occupational hazard) and each one has their installer number displayed front and back.

The licensed chain installers have set prices for chain installation and removal. It's often going to be question of whether or not you want to get dirty yourself as well as getting the chains on correctly. If you can find a relatively clean place to do it, knee pads may be all you need in addition to warm clothes.

I'd be surprised if you couldn't find chains or cables in stock at almost any regular Walmart, although finding the right size may be an issue.

The dynamics of pricing is another matter. I don't have that much experience driving in Southern California snow. I've been up to Big Bear when I was a kid. My experience with winter driving conditions is more of Lake Tahoe, Reno, and Yosemite. In Lake Tahoe the prices tend to be high because it's a chance to gouge the unprepared tourist, and they're mostly found at tire shops and gas stations. However, some of the foothill communities (like Pollock Pines) had chains for sale at lower prices at drug stores and supermarkets. Of course Reno has a large enough population and lots of discount stores that sell chains.

You might be able to make it all the Way to Mammoth without chain conditions. There's a KMart in Bishop, although I'm not sure they have tire cables/chains. The KMart website only lists tire chains for tractors.

I've only been to Mammoth in the summer, so I don't have any experience with winter conditions there.

 

[My3Princez]

We're renting from Sixt and I checked with them and while they do not have chains for rent, they DO allow you to use your own chains on their cars. Just FYI in case it helps anyone out.

 

[bcla]

Just as a generic report, I went to a local WM to get some supplies and I had a quick look at the auto parts. The chains/cables were in the back near the tire/oil change counter. The mostly had truck/SUV chains. I think I saw two sizes of passenger car cables and only limited shelf space.

Of course every store is different. I remember last year in Reno I checked out a WM and they had an extensive selection of chains, cables, ice scrapers, decider, and other winter driving supplies.

As far as it goes, if there are chain conditions, all vehicles must carry chains even if they're not currently required to be installed. The conditions are called R1/R2/R3. R1 is the minimum where chains may be required, but adequate tread all-season or snow tires will substitute for chains. Then there's R2 where such tires with 4WD/AWD don't require chains. Finally there's R3 where all vehicles are required to have chains on, but usually they'll close the road.