Gary -

If you come up the Columbia through the Tri-Cities, and then catch 395 to
Spokane, you won't have any mountain passes.  If you head east of Coeur
d'Alene, you will, of course.

I use cable chains on my Westfalia, and have been reasonably satisfied.
Actually I have used them in mud as often as snow, so my chains live in my
van all year round.

They aren't too tough to get on and off, just make sure you have a coverall
or some clothes you don't mind getting dirty if you have to put them on.  I
wouldn't go anywhere east of the Cascades in the winter without having a
set.

Most important, whichever type you buy, take them home and try them on the
vehicle before you leave town.  That way you know if they fit, know how to
put them on and don't have to be fighting with either problem by the side of
the road in nasty weather.

Have fun!

Mike Finkbiner
'87 Wesy
Moscow, Idaho (and formerly Minnesota)

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Date:    Mon, 15 Oct 2001 08:11:04 -0700
From:    gary hradek <hradek@YAHOO.COM>
Subject: camping in Libby Montana and chains

We will be driving from Portland Oregon to Coeur d'
Alene, ID in late October.   This is a route I am not
familiar with and  I am uncertain about the highway.
I will be driving during daylight only.   Should I
expect snow and will I need chains?   What mountain
passes should I be most concerned about with regards
to the weather?
Does anyone out there use chains on their vanagons an
if so regular chains or can I get by with the plastics
chains?   I hate putting chains on.

Mike Finkbiner
mike_l_f@hotmail.com

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