DRAGON88

So I was test fitting some snow chains I just got for my 4kq, and wouldn't you know it, in the red print it specifically says NOT to use these chains on Audi 4000 or 5000 series cars as well as the VW Quantum.

So I'm looking for some input, I have not driven with the snow chains (The mountain pass was clear this weekend driving up.) so I can still take them back. The owners manual also cautions about using chains on page 77. Thoughts about this? Is there anything else I can do besides buy some nice snow tires? To make my clearance problems worse I'm riding on some H&R springs and Boge Turbo gas shocks, so my car sits even slightly lower then a stock 4kq. I am still running the stock tire size 195/60R14

Any thoughts or comments appreciated,

Thanks in advance,
-Richard

AudiSport4000

Ive never used chains and never thought about it. With a good set of snows and the diff locks you should be just fine

Max'sCoupeGT

It says in the owner's manual that you can use them on the fronts, but not the rears.

DRAGON88

The thing is that around here you legally have to carry traction devices. So for me I guess that would mean those damn <a href="http://www.spikes-spiders.com/">Spikes Spider</a> things. that would run about $300 per set. :-X

Ironically enough my car has neither the differential locks nor snowtires. My diff locker is missing the vacuum device (Sorry i don't know what to call it) that is located on the transmission right above and to the left of the axle on the passengers side. Is missing altogether, apparently my brother broke it somehow, maybe replacing the inner CV boot? If anyone knows where I could source one of those I'd be stoked!

Thanks again
-Richard

mt6127

lowered springs shouldn't really matter as much as the clearance to the fender and strut. My two cents is get yourself a second set of 5 1/2x14 steel rims and run some 175/70x14 snows first. Throw two bags of rock salt (like for a water softener) in the trunk and see how you go before trying the chains. I used to run up to Lake Tahoe in chain restrictions with regular tires and never got stopped or held up.

Evilclown

invest in good winter tires. even if you have all-seasons, you'll be alright as long as you drive like you have some sense.

4Driver4

Less trouble than installing chains, chains will limit your speed to under 30 mph, and cheains risk paint damage.

gmbchef

That part (vacuum servo) is available through the dealer.

Suffolk

More ease of use.
Better performance.

Katman

I've never got stuck..

Well, I'll have to qualify that:

I've never got stuck with snow tires on, Unless, off the road, or into snow that is just obviously too deep, and I've got the car high centered, with the weight on the floor pan!

And even then, if you carry a garden hoe in the trunk, you can pull the snow from under the middle of the car. Where you can't reach with the snowshovel.. Just be careful you don't snag the gas or brake lines!