I have the 18" Style 123 wheels on my 2006 530xit. I want do get a set of chains for emergencies. Any recommendations? I'm looking at a set by SCC - Super Z-6 (model SZ139). It claims to exceed the Class S clearance classification. The BMW manual doesn't seem to even specify the clearance classification...

Thanks,
Pat

 

The Accessory catalogue have snow chains as one of the many options. As we don't use them over here, I haven't checked more thoroughly though.

 

Are you looking at getting chains since you might be going over Donner and they have full on chain restrictions for all cars or just as a back up?

You might try the auto socks that Tire Rack sells.
http://www.tirerack.com/accessories/...k/autosock.jsp

If you need chains, this is the one that comes from BMW.
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?mo...;fg=14&hl=4

Good luck

 

Does the x really need any chains?

Fine winter wheels should do the trick.

And if any chains are needed, 17" rims would be better for those conditions.

18" or 19" wheels then for the summer.

 

Thanks for the input. The AutoSock is an interesting concept... just checked and it doesn't have a compatible size for my 245/40-18.

I checked for the clearance around the rear wheels and since there aren't any springs, there's plenty of room for chains. I just bought a set of the SCC Super Z-6 for $80... the $450 BMW chains made me cringe a little. I'm heading up to the mountains this weekend and if I need to put them on (if CHP insists - "chain restrictions"), then I'll report back on form, fit, and function.

I was trying to find a set of used 17" wheels w/ snow tires, but their utility in California is limited.

Pat

 

Hi Pat,

We purchased a 530 xit and went searching for used snow tires / rims. First set were from a 530--RWD. The offset was wrong. Second set--boy were we lucky! We found a set originally purchased from a dealer, that were no longer needed by the original owner. Proper offset, since they were originally mounted on an xi.

Along the way someone said that there was a clearance issue--very tight--on the front end.

This was with the 18" rims and summer tires mounted. (We also found debris from almost intact hub centring rights suggesting that the car had had aftermarket rims mounted wiht the previous owner.

Summary...check clearance on the front too.

DaveL
Toronto

 

what about 20's??

 

The SCC - Super Z-6 (model SZ139) chains came in very handy in Tahoe this past week. Installation was straight forward - like all other chains I've had experience with in the past.

The only surprise was finding out the new set of tires that came with the car when I bought it (this is a new to me car) are "summer rated" tires and they are terrible in the snow!

Pat

 

Did you just get one set of chains and mount them on the rear wheels? I just picked up a new [to me] 2006 530xit and will have the occasional trip into the tahoe area.

Thanks,
~jed

 

Yup, just 1 set and had them on the rear wheels.

Pat