Safety Chain Weight Ratings and Dimensions

Updated 09/04/2018 | Published 09/01/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Laclede 5/16" Quick Link for 1/4" Safety Chains - 880 lbs Working Load Limit - Qty 1

(8)

$2.72

36" Long Safety Chain with 1/4" S-Hook with Latch - 5,000 lbs - Qty 1

(346)

$22.26

Question:

I have a 27ft trailer that loaded weighs 6300 lb cat scan. What size safety chains will I need. I have read the online explanation but I am still confused. The length needed is 36inch before connectors. I would like the convenience of s hooks and not clovis hooks because the opening on my from the factory hitch will not allow a 5/16in clevis hook to go thru the opening on the truck. Can you help me find safety chains for my rig.

asked by: Ray L

Helpful Expert Reply:

Safety chains or safety cables should be rated for the full loaded trailer weight. Most of the safety chains we have that are rated for your 6300-lb loaded trailer weight will have clevis or S hook connectors that are larger than 5/16-inch.

Titan 5K Chain part # TCTSCG30-736-04X1 measures 36-inches from the edge of the end link to the edge of the hook, but the hook's diameter is 3/8-inches which is slightly larger than the 5/16-inch so it sounds like this would not work for you. An adjustable chain kit like 30-inch Tow Ready # 40604 could be used along with multiple quick links like # 750-3204 which are 1/4-inch diameter but these are rated for less trailer weight than you have.

You could use a longer chain like the Buyers Products 9/32 chain # 337B93248SC which is 48-inches and use the included quick links to shorten it. This single chain is rated for 5K so two would give you the capacity you need.

expert reply by: Adam R