I just got a 2006 F-350 with 18in aluminum wheels. I went to buy tire chains for it at the local parts store. The salesman checked, and then told me Ford doesn't recommend using chains because of a clearance problem with the brake lines, however cables are O.K.
Has anybody tried using chains with and '05 or '06 w/ 18's. I really don't want to be stuck with cables.

i dont know but i would just look and c if they would work and use your best jugement

The brake line clearance does look a little tight. I called out to some Western Colorado Ford dealers to ask them what they thought. I figured they might have a little more experience with chains out there.

They all told me people are using chains, you just have to be careful and make sure they are on extra tight.

I ordered a set, but haven't tried them yet. I will next week. If anybody's interested I could tell you how they fit.

I have a 2005 with 18's and aluminum. I have the same problem and would be interested in how they work.

I might have found some that work. I did find some SAE Class S chains at tirechain.com (Diamond Tire chains) for that size -- 275-70R18. I haven't ordered them. They are 3.8 mm, but still might be better than cables. Are the Diamonds the ones you ordered, tried, but were still too close?