Driving a Rubicon in the Snow

[Oncorhynchus]

The Rubi's diffs are open when not locked, and running on paved roads "locked" isn't advisable. Wheels need to turn at different speeds when cornering, which is why Jeep programs it so you can't run them locked over a certain speed. On slick roads, running locked will cause tires to lose traction when cornering, not really helpful... This is a situation where I'd prefer an anti-spin rear diff that can lock only when taking off, or if you need to use the throttle to straighten out. The open diffs probably cause me to run 4H in slick conditions more than I actually need to, as I find it easier to straighten out in 4H if one of the axles loses traction.

Chain all 4 wheels for best results, rear axle if you're only carrying one pair. If you're carrying them just to meet the letter of the law, make sure you try them on and know how they work before you need them...in case you actually need them!

Nothing like trying to out on chains for the first time when you need them. Seen lots of Californians take 30+ minutes attempting to put on their chains.

if you don’t have bead locks then be careful about airing down too low.

I purchased tire socks instead of chains for my Wrangler. Very expensive but weighs practically nothing and takes up no space. In the Sierras you may find yourself alternating between snow, slush, ice and dry concrete in a span of a few miles. That is why I went with the socks. Easy to take on and off.

Sponsored

 

[Ratbert]

The KO2 came stock with my Rubicon.

I'm guessing you might be replying to me. Note that there's a button on each post for that.

I'm pretty sure you could get KM3s stock on Rubicons too. And other tires on other trims.

 

[Nukem]

I'm guessing you might be replying to me. Note that there's a button on each post for that.

I'm pretty sure you could get KM3s stock on Rubicons too. And other tires on other trims.

Either way, the stock tires performed beyond my expectations in the snow.

 

[Av8Chuck]

We have a 2020 3.6 JLUR automatic. We drive the eastern sierra frequently anytime of year. We have been to Yosemite many times. however to navigate snow for us, I can agree on tire choice, (KO2) and to run in 4H with traction control off, once we hit white stuff. In some cases going up hill on icier grades (short ones) 4L is required. and if they slip I put in the lockers. We stage the effort of the vehicle. For the valley I dont think you will be having issues. Crossing into high country in Yosemite winter is impossible so no concern there. The only thing that can stop you is plowing the differential into a snow pack taller than the low point of your chassis. and a drop into a mudpile under the ice in spring. You can high center badly. so look and gauge the height of the path you want to take. but for the valley I dont see why it would not be plowed because frankly they are expecting kia sedans at the Awahnee... Enjoy your trip it will be beautiful..

Thanks. Looking forward to it.

 

[Levi8than]

When that thick, wet Sierra Cement is accumulating, be aware of your headlights. My 2018's LEDs run so cold that the wet snow builds up and blocks the light. I have had trips coming down 4 after dark where I've gotten out to clear my headlights every few miles.

Have fun!

 

[rdfact]

I went through the Sierras yesterday on Hwy 88. Chains, or 4x4 with snow tires, were required. As I approached the CalTrans chain check station, other cars were already pulled to the side putting chains on. The CalTrans guy just gave me the “rock on” sign and waved me through.

 

[Av8Chuck]

I went through the Sierras yesterday on Hwy 88. Chains, or 4x4 with snow tires, were required. As I approached the CalTrans chain check station, other cars were already pulled to the side putting chains on. The CalTrans guy just gave me the “rock on” sign and waved me through.

How was the drive without chains?

 

[Heimkehr]

I went through the Sierras yesterday on Hwy 88. Chains, or 4x4 with snow tires, were required. As I approached the CalTrans chain check station, other cars were already pulled to the side putting chains on.

The CalTrans guy just gave me the “rock on” sign and waved me through.

I wonder how many folks that have rubber that looks like legit 3PMSF snow tires, but isn't, enjoy the same free pass.

 

[rdfact]

How was the drive without chains?

No problem. Most areas had a thin layer of snow/ice. I did not slide at all.
The worst part was an elderly lady in a Volvo wagon was leading a very slow train of cars. She was down to 15mph in many places. She passed lots of turnouts and never let cars pass her. By the time we hit a passing lane, there had to be about 20 cars behind her, including a snow plow.

 

[rdfact]

I wonder how many folks that have rubber that looks like legit 3PMSF snow tires, but isn't, enjoy the same free pass.

Yeah, I just have the stock KO2s, not true snow tires.

 

[THAW]

Yeah, I just have the stock KO2s, not true snow tires.

KO2s are 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake rated.

 

[wanderer]

I lived just outside of the south gate for 2 plus and
I drove in that snow all the time in both my Rubicon 2018 and my 2020 gladiator Rubicon in my 2018 One time i wanted first tracks after a heavy snow but i was second i followed the tracks for a long time miles and miles All the while snow was getting deeper and deeper Soon my diffs were carving grooves Then my belly pan was plowing i figured who ever was in that “jeep” must have been on saw blade forties So i turned around and barely got out Then i saw that
“Jeep” and in words of doc holiday i thought to myself why your no daisy no daisy at all You are a razor on tracks until that moment i did not know such a thing existed

 

[Av8Chuck]

I lived just outside of the south gate for 2 plus and
I drove in that snow all the time in both my Rubicon 2018 and my 2020 gladiator Rubicon in my 2018 One time i wanted first tracks after a heavy snow but i was second i followed the tracks for a long time miles and miles All the while snow was getting deeper and deeper Soon my diffs were carving grooves Then my belly pan was plowing i figured who ever was in that “jeep” must have been on saw blade forties So i turned around and barely got out Then i saw that
“Jeep” and in words of doc holiday i thought to myself why your no daisy no daisy at all You are a razor on tracks until that moment i did not know such a thing existed

sorry, you lost me. I have no idea what your saying?

 

[Gangplank]

I grew up driving in the sierras in Tahoe, and lived in Colorado, Utah and Tahoe again. I’ve had all sorts of SUVs. Everything from a Subaru wagon in high school to an OG Pathfiner, 4Runner, Toyota “Truck”. I’ve never had to use chains with proper 3peak tires if the road is open. I’ve also helped more people get un-stuck than I can remember.

One thing if note the most common car we would see stuck on the Highway in Colorado were JK wranglers. Not because they are bad in snow but because the drivers were inexperienced and over confident. Slow and steady in how you go in the snow - NSM = no sudden movements. And as others have noted the issue is stopping not going. 4wd helps you go in snow. It does not help stopping any better than 2nd.

I haven’t had the opportunity to drive my wrangler in the snow yet but having proper 3peak tires is a must. KO2 were by far the best snow tires I’ve used.

 

[Jtphoto]

And as others have noted the issue is stopping not going. 4wd helps you go in snow. It does not help stopping any better than 2nd.

Interestingly enough, Due to drive line lock up in 4wd the brakes and ABS do not work the same as in 2wd. They actually can work better for you because you can’t lock up the front and slide without the rear locking up as well. But like everything else you still have to know your limits.

Sponsored