Safety Chains
nolefan
Reg. Jun 2006
Posted 2007-06-21 5:42 PM (#62615)
Subject: Safety Chains


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Posts: 57
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Location: FL

Hello all ..

 

My safety chains are too short to cross - I'm towing with a weight distribution hitch.

Should I have additional links added to my safety chains so that they can be crossed?

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greyhorse
Reg. Nov 2005
Posted 2007-06-21 5:52 PM (#62616 - in reply to #62615)
Subject: RE: Safety Chains



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I would guess yes, if they are too short to cross I would guess that they will also be short enough that they pull tight in a sharp turn. If they do they need to be longer.
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hosspuller
Reg. Oct 2003
Posted 2007-06-22 7:28 AM (#62638 - in reply to #62615)
Subject: RE: Safety Chains


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Since you're considering replacing your safety chains or adding links...

Be aware that:  Chains are made in different strength grades.  Two chain links of the same diameter may be hugely different in strength

The breaking strength of each chain should equal the gross weight of the towed trailer. (See: Farm Vehicles and Equipment and The Highway Traffic Act, Appendix A - chain grades charts.)

 

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lostinohio
Reg. Feb 2006
Posted 2007-06-22 11:01 AM (#62648 - in reply to #62615)
Subject: RE: Safety Chains


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Hi Nolefan, I had same problem with my 04 Alumasport when I bought it. I first had it hooked up with regular draw bar and chains were good length. Then went to an equalizer distribution hitch and the drawbar is longer. Added about 4-5" of binding chain(gold colored)on both chains and chain connectors(to join added lengths). Just make sure as was stated that chains and 'connectors' are rated for trailer load. Would have been easier to change out whole length of chain, but with ends welded on trailer that would have presented another problem. Good luck.

Edited by lostinohio 2007-06-22 11:09 AM
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