SNOW chains/cables...Yes or NO?

[salvo]

I am planning on purchasing some snow tires/wheels...but I need to know if i can put cables or chains on my tires so that Caltrans will let me pass when "chain control" is effect! According to CAltrans, snow tires on a RWD dont make the cut...I know the manual says that i canNOT put chains...but how about cables??? I have an 04 330ci with sports package...245/45/17

[b-y]

:thumbdwn: If you have the larger wheels from a sport package and the "no chains" warning, it also covers cables and low-profile chains. There is not enough clearance to use them safely. The only realistic options in CA are to get a smaller diameter set of wheels for winter use with chains or to stay off roads with chain controls.

Of course, you can ignore the warnings and risk chewing up the fenders and wheel wells.

[marcmerlin]

I have the same problem (M5 with 18 inch wheels and non snow tires).
I'm not trying to turn the car into a subaru with snow tires, but I'd like something I can carry to go through light snow and ice when I get stuck a chain control in Tahoe (california).

I've been looking at these guys: http://www.spikes-spiders.com/
although I'm interested in any other option.

What do you think?

[salvo]

I have the same problem (M5 with 18 inch wheels and non snow tires).
I'm not trying to turn the car into a subaru with snow tires, but I'd like something I can carry to go through light snow and ice when I get stuck a chain control in Tahoe (california).

I've been looking at these guys: http://www.spikes-spiders.com/
although I'm interested in any other option.

What do you think?

Do you know if those SpikesSpider "things" fit on our cars??? I know it says BMW, but that doesnt mean it fits an M5 or 330c with Sport package...not a bad idea, if it fits.

Why dont you go the winter tire route? expense or time consuming...or both