I was wondering if anybody has tried using tire chains for there 8's? I have seen them and they are cheap compared to new tires. I didn't even think about weather in the DC area when buying my car. I have been living in Hawaii the last 5 years so I have never had to worry about types of tires for the weather. And since I just bought my 8 it will be a month or so to save enough money to get snow tires but its snowing now. Can anybody let me know about tire chains and if they can't be used why?
Thanks.

Honestly, I don't know the definitive answer to your question, but most of the time, sports cars don't have adequate clearance for tire chains.

I believe in the manual it said something about how with the low profile tires the chains would extend over onto the wheel and damage the aluminum wheel>? someone should look into specialized tire chains

Well, first of all tire chains should not be used on 18' aluminum rims. Not only will they scratch the surface of the rim, but there will be definite mounting issues with them. I'd say if you don't have any money and are really looking to drive your 8 in the winter, look into getting used tires. Scratching your rims will cost you more in the long run than buying a set of used rubber would.

Secondly, tire chains should not be used on high performance tires. The tire should be one which has a M + S rating that you're installing your chains on. And chains are not to be used on highways or roads, because they tear up the asphalt.

Just don't worry about driving, you live in Alexandria, what do ya need to drive for? Keep your baby nice and safe at home and rock the Metro if you need to go somewhere, and if you don't, then hell, get yourself some hot chocolate and a remote control and call it a day :)

Originally posted by Gonzo

. And chains are not to be used on highways or roads, because they tear up the asphalt.

that must differ from state to state and conditions. here in oregon they require the use of chains on certain roads and highways during/after snowfalls in the winter. practically all winter long there are chains required on stretches of road here. and for the last few days when the 2 or 3 major highways were open(they were closed for some time during a storm) chains were required on them for most of the length and breadth of the state. same happened on new years day during the storm we had then. we had just landed at the airport and were on the way to the long term parking when we found out they had just lifted the chain requirement on the 2 highways we need to drive home on. other wise we would have had to wait , not having chains in the truck with us.

but you do need to pull over and remove them when you get to consistently cleared roadways.

Yes, tried it on a sixteen inch wheel today in the sunshine on a parking lot and the steel hoop cleared the control arms on the inside and no damage to the wheel well. Used the heavy duty Z-chain which are cables model ZP 555 on the rear tire. Not recommended by Mazda and it was a tight fit but was able to drive a figure eight okay. It was a mail order from Virginia but it says they are made in Oregon.

You must be crazy to leave Hawaii, man.