Not having 4x4 and snow tires, I guess I have to get chains or cables for my X if I'm going to snow country. I think in California only chains are allowed, but I'm not too sure. Looking for help with members with more experience on California roads up north around Lake Tahoe and Reno. Actually, those would be Nevada highways and roads too. Nothing offroad, just highways and roads.

Any info and tips would be highly appreciated.

If you're getting chains try this site.

www.flextrax.com
www.spike-spider.com

I was thinking of getting these instead of chains.

Thanks for the link. I was trying to think of the name of those high tech "chains" (the spiders). My co-worker has a set and highly recommends them.

For a snow chain newbie, on a 2WD vehicle, which set of tires do you put them on? I assume the ones on the drive axle and I am guessing the rear ones?

You got it!

Also, I'd recommend buying real chains and not cables. You get what you pay for with tire chains. The cables will wear out much sooner, and its a real bitch when they break, and get all tangled around your axle... Been there, done that...

i work for the cable company in reno and our trucks our only 2wd the got us some cool chains that you can put on with out moving your truck they came in handy last year. no snow yet this year but i pray every night for it. and also you are right chain the back up and you will feel unstopable it is fun.

Thanks for the info. What is the name of the chains that you have that doesn't require you to move the vehicle?

I just got a set from Costco. You do not have to move the truck to put them on. I did have to move the truck to take them off. They are standard looking chains ands cost $60