Chains and ease of installation is somewhat of an oxymoron.
But it will be easier if you assure that the chains fit properly.
If you buy them at a garage or gas station they can put the van on the lift
and fit them for you. Otherwise it is best to do it in your garage; before
you need them. (sometimes a proper fit means adding or removing links)
If you buy different tires at some point you should check the fit again.
Bill
90 Westy Syncro
Lake Tahoe
-----Original Message-----
From: Woody Halsey <WoodyHalsey@COMPUSERVE.COM>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Date: Thursday, December 23, 1999 5:11 AM
Subject: chains

Dear List,

I am looking for reasonably priced chains or cables that are easy to get on
and off the tires of my 83.5 2WD. I will need them once or twice each
winter for  the short stretch of dirt road that goes from the tarmac up to
my sister's house in Francestown, NH. It is almost always icy and there is
one grade that it is always a scary nightmare. I will not take them on dry
highway and will never drive more than 5 miles at about 20MPH max.

I have never used chains before, but assume that ease of installation will
be key, if I am try to do it by the side of the road in sub-freezing temps
with children waiting anxiously in the van, eager to see their cousins!
Anyone have any suggestions?

Thanks and Merry Christmas!

Woody