GenTarkin

Hello all...
I have a 05 Scion xB. It has 17" wheels / tires on it all season directional.
It is not lowered.
The tires have about 35k miles on them and have half tread left or more left.

My wife and I are planning a trip to medford OR from portland OR and then returning back to OR. The dates are around (portland to medford) Dec 22nd to (medford to portland)Dec 29ish 30ish.

We plan on taking the I5 down to medford and back to portland.

I was wondering if any of you are familiar with the weather in the mountains and on this drive this time of year and if the box could do it...and what would I need?
My stock tires / rims are located in AZ and shipping them up here would be expensive.
Other option was getting chains / cable for my drive tires but Im not sure if even the smallest chains / cables would fit with my 17" tires...between my inner well and the tire when turning the wheels I think they might rub on engine compartment.

So, Im just wondering if anyone has driven this with this type of car and this particular route this time of year and have some info or tips they can give me as to what I might need or / expect on this trip.

Thanks
Jason

MoScion

It really depends on the weather, most of the time it is fine and clear, I5 is a major trucking route and tends to be kept clear of snow and ice. I have driven down to California several times during the December months.

It all depends though if there is a winter blast sometimes they do close I5 to all traffic, it is rare but it does happen.

For the most part you should be fine.

I hope you have a fun and safe trip!

GenTarkin

So, you think they would close down the highway first if a huge storm hit really hard and unexpectedly? then they roll the snowplows and try and clear the highway and let traffic back through?

Otherwise for constant mild winter weather, like snow or something the plows are going through constantly tryin to keep it clear?
So...it should be ok?
So, do you think I should just look for a set of chains and use only if I need too and not try and turn my wheels too sharp, just in case they do rub inside?

Thanks,
Jason

Kanchi

iTrader: (4)

Honestly the xB does great in the snow, even with lo-pro/ summer tires! if it gets real bad remember they will either shut it down or require chains/ traction tires so I would get a set just in case and return them if you don't use them.

GenTarkin

I think thats what I will do, just get chains in case.
Do you know where I can get good chains that are low clearance chains?

Kanchi

iTrader: (4)

In Oregon I would stop @ Les Schwab. Otherwise any Discount Tire would most likely be your best bet. I would also call ahead of time to make sure they have them...

BZinn1

Check your local SEars autocenter......we just got in our first batch of chains this week.

they are cheap and if you do not use them you can take them back and refund your money.

The I5 corridor should be clear as it is a major highway N to S and it is usually in good condition.If it snow too bad to drive on they close that area till it stops and then replow it......

Mad_Sciontist001

I drive around OR all the time during the winter and never change out my tires for the winter. My first gen got around fine. However the hills between Myrtle Creek and Grants Pass can close down now and then and you must carry chains. Just get some chains in case but you should be fine.

ProjectGreen

I make that drive at least once a month, well Medford to Salem. It honestly just depends on the weather. 90% of the time it is clear in the winter and have no problems with it. You will just need to be on the lookout for black ice.

Get some chains just in case of that 10% though.

Also, stop by and visit us when your down in Medford.

GenTarkin

wish I could, we are driving down there only to hop on a plane flight to phoenix az =) goin home for christmas. hehe

Thanks for all your tips guys!
I appreciate it, I just pray the weather is good those days we drive =)