Stuff We Want: SCC Super Z6 Cable Tire Chains, the Pass Is Open and So Is Winter
"cascades winter weather advisory snow" is rising on Google Trends. If your road trip crosses a pass, the trunk needs these before the shoulder does.
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Google Trends has cascades winter weather advisory snow climbing this morning. On Wednesday, snow and slush returned to Washington's mountain passes, with winter weather advisories for Snoqualmie, Stevens and White passes, and traction tires advised. More mountain snow is in the forecast around Halloween weekend.
WSDOT used the moment to remind drivers that vehicles crossing mountain passes in winter must carry chains. It also pointed out that studded tires don't count as chains when chains are required, and suggested practicing putting them on in your driveway first, not on the shoulder in a snowstorm.
That last tip is the whole story of most people and tire chains. They're in the trunk. They've never been out of the bag. Nobody knows how they go on.
The SCC Super Z6 is a cable-style tire chain built for the tricky part: modern cars, pickups and SUVs with very little room around the drive tires. It needs only about 6.33 mm (0.25 in) of sidewall clearance.
The listing also says installation is fast and doesn't require moving the vehicle, and a designed-in rubber tightener means you don't have to stop and retighten after you put them on. It's a set of two.
SCC says its Z-Chain family has been a winter traction choice for police, fire, ambulance and other professional fleets for more than a decade.
One practical note: tire chains are sized. This set is SZ143, so match your exact tire size to SCC's fit chart on the listing before you order, and check WSDOT's chain rules for your vehicle. Then do the driveway rehearsal. Your future self, on a dark pass with cold hands, says thanks.
Who it's for
- Pacific Northwest drivers heading over the Cascades this winter.
- Ski and snowboard trips that cross a mountain pass.
- Cars and SUVs with tight wheel wells where bulky chains won't fit.
Who should skip it
- You never drive in snow country. Keep the trunk space.
- Your tire size isn't on the fit chart. Find the right size first.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Designed for vehicles with very limited clearance.
- Install without moving the vehicle.
- Rubber tightener, so no stopping to retighten.
- Set of two.
Cons
- Sized to specific tires, so you need to check fit.
- Still a winter chore. Practice before you need it.
Pros and cons are our read of the features on the listing, not a hands-on test.
How it compares
Vs. AutoSock snow socks: AutoSock is a fabric traction cover. The Super Z6 is a cable chain. Check which one your route and vehicle allow.
Keep your hands warm while you're at it: the Snow Joe ice scraper mitt and the heated steering wheel cover.
FAQ
What vehicles is the SCC Super Z6 for?
Passenger cars, pickups and SUVs, especially ones with very limited clearance around the drive tires.
How much clearance does it need?
About 6.33 mm (0.25 in) of sidewall clearance.
Do you need to move the car to install it?
No. The listing says installation doesn't require moving the vehicle.
Do studded tires count as chains in Washington?
No. WSDOT says studded tires don't count as chains when chains are required.
The verdict
The verdict: hand-picked for the first real pass snow of the season. Buy the right size, practice once in the driveway, and the pass is just a drive.
#ad. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Hand-picked by The Deez List.
