Yeti 4x4 not legal in the snow fields in winter!?

[brad]

Just out of interest, why can't you fit chains to the 225/50r17? Is there a clearance issue between the spring seat / strut & the tyre?

What is the width & ET of the rims (that have the 225/50r17 tyres)???

Also, why does the Mt Hotham website make no reference to snow tyres & M&S/winter tyres? Do they not recognise them as an alternative to chains?

How do you know they weren't using 225/50r17 in testing? I doubt the Australian tyre & wheel package is unique. I know the Scout is fitted with the same tyre all over the world.

[Ryeman]

Just out of interest, why can't you fit chains to the 225/50r17? Is there a clearance issue between the spring seat / strut & the tyre?

What is the width & ET of the rims (that have the 225/50r17 tyres)???

Also, why does the Mt Hotham website make no reference to snow tyres & M&S/winter tyres? Do they not recognise them as an alternative to chains?

How do you know they weren't using 225/50r17 in testing? I doubt the Australian tyre & wheel package is unique. I know the Scout is fitted with the same tyre all over the world.

Hi Brad
Yes, they don't clear the struts I understand.
Chains must be carried and fitted when advised at the appropriate places and/or if staying at the accommodation site (recommended).
Winter tyres are not an acceptable 'substitute' for chains......this is the legal situation facing those entering or transiting the ski fields in Victoria.

[Ryeman]

Since most european cars sold in australia dont come with "winter" wheels, its hardly surprising, and is the case for more cars than just your yeti. For instance, snow chains are to be used only on the rear axel on my allroad too, according to the manual.

Anyway, it wouldnt be the first time ADR's or laws didnt make sense.

Agree entirely, what use are these beurocrats if they don't know what's going on.
Why don't we simply adopt UK laws applicable to vehicle standards.

snow chains "are to be used on the rear axle" because they can't be fitted on the necessary axle.....it's an 'admission'.

[brad]

Measure up how much extra room you need at the front & put some suitable hub-centric spacers on when you go to the snow so that you can run chains up front.

If you have an issue & don't agree with the manufacturers half-baked solution then you need to come up with your own solutions.

[Ryeman]

Measure up how much extra room you need at the front & put some suitable hub-centric spacers on when you go to the snow so that you can run chains up front.

If you have an issue & don't agree with the manufacturers half-baked solution then you need to come up with your own solutions.

Their 'solution' is to fit different tyres or wheels and tyres......but they don't tell you the situation.......you 'find out'.......it's secret.
Front spacers might work but then you have another issue.....insurance RWC etc.....the only solution is to have appropriate 'winter tyres'.

[Ryeman]

Just an aside
why do vehicles traveling to NSW snow fields carry chains ..... if they never fit them?
imagine getting caught out in a snow storm on the v lightly trafficked southern approaches to Thredbo and then finding out they were basically useless.....I would imagine you'd be a little bit p....d off.
And the FWD version is worse because they have the same wheel/tyre combo.

Skoda AU .... Not happy!

[brad]

I believe the NSW law says you have to carry chains but it doesn't say you have to fit them. In fact, I have friends that carry chains that don't even fit the car to comply with the law. When they need it, they fit snow socks (or similar).

You realise how backward Australia is in regard to snow / tyre accessories when you start looking at European snow "chain" tests.

[Ryeman]

I believe the NSW law says you have to carry chains but it doesn't say you have to fit them. In fact, I have friends that carry chains that don't even fit the car to comply with the law. When they need it, they fit snow socks (or similar).

You realise how backward Australia is in regard to snow / tyre accessories when you start looking at European snow "chain" tests.

Yeah, but why do they require you to carry them if you never have to use them, is my point.
How many owners of 4WD vehicles think there might be a practical issue in fitting chains?
Are there ANY FWD Asian vehicles that can't fit chains to their car? The FWD Yeti can't go to Victorian ski fields!
I'm starting to wonder if this only relates to VAG vehicles.

[brad]

I assume bureaucracy and failure to close a loophole. NSW RMS is only concerned if they can see a revenue stream from non-compliance.

[Ryeman]

I assume bureaucracy and failure to close a loophole. NSW RMS is only concerned if they can see a revenue stream from non-compliance.

Shock, horror, how can you be so cynical Brad?. D
I'm actually more concerned for those who take their FWD one to our snow fields....they'd be completely stranded.
Once I've worn out my current ones I'll be looking to update to 'appropriate' tyres.