Posted 2010-06-27 10:30 AM (#121590) Subject: Saftey Chains/cables
Member
Posts: 6
My trailer has safety cables. The latch/snap doesn't close over the hitch because it is too small but it is snug and hangs properly. My trailer repair guy says this is ok, do you all agree or should I try to replace the snaps on the end of the cables with bigger ones so they do latch? Is it okay/safe to just have them over the hitch and not lock/snap shut?
Posted 2010-06-27 1:24 PM (#121600 - in reply to #121590) Subject: RE: Saftey Chains/cables
Expert
Posts: 3802 Location: Rocky Mount N.C.
I believe that the lock/latch/snap is on there for a reason, don't you think? Without seeing it I would have to say, do it right, or stay at home, it's cheap insurance.
Posted 2010-06-27 4:05 PM (#121608 - in reply to #121590) Subject: RE: Saftey Chains/cables
Expert
Posts: 2453 Location: Northern Utah
Are you talking about the little spring loaded levers inside the hooks that keep the chain hooks from coming off what ever they are hooked?
My safety chains on my horse trailer didn't evencome with those. While the safety chains on my dump trailer does have those. I've got more trailers with out those spring loaded levers than I have with.
If that is what you are talking about, I think it is more a preference of the trailer manufacture or yourself than it is a law. If you chain bounces or vibrates off his attaching ring, That's bad, If the chain stays put and is in place when an accident occurs, Thats good.
If they are are on the chain hooks. I sure wouldn't take them off. but if chain hooks came with out them, I wouldn't replace the hooks to get that small margin of extra safety.
Now if you are talking about hooks that stretched or straightened out so they don't hook on rings in the bed or hitch area. Get them fixed.
Posted 2010-06-27 6:32 PM (#121620 - in reply to #121590) Subject: RE: Saftey Chains/cables
Member
Posts: 6
The Spring Loaded snaps are very snug when I hook them over the receiver loops on the truck. They are just not snapping shut due to the size. The cables are definitely long enough and there is no issue otherwise. Thank you for all your responses.
Saftey Chains/cables
