does anyone have good or bad experience using chains on the frt. end of a Tacoma or 3rd gen. 4Runner? I have two sets that I could use to chain up all 4 wheels, but it looks like the upper balljoint is too close to the tire. I have stock alloys and stock tire size.

 

I put a rather large set on the front of my 3rd gen. and they did rub a little on the front fender flare on the inner most portion. Nothing noticeable, but still they rubbed. Cables probably would not rub.

 

You would only need chains on the front under the most severe conditions. I think I'd choose to air down first. If you were still able to move, don't waste your time with front chains. If you're stuck, drop the air down to 5-8 lbs. You can still drive 20-30 mph with this much air. You wouldn't go any faster with chains either.

You could try cables but they only really do any good with a hard packed bottom. They don't do much is soft snow. Airing down will provide you as much or more traction as cables will.