How To Measure For Correct Safety Chain Length For Trailer

Updated 09/01/2021 | Published 08/31/2021

Question:

Do I go straight across from one connection to another or do I bend my measuring tape around the jacked nife truck and trailer

asked by: James M

Expert Reply:

To measure for safety chains you will want to have the trailer hooked up to your tow vehicle with it just about jack knifed as this is the furthest the safety chains will be stretched.

You will measure from one side of the tongue where you will be attaching the safety chain to the opposite side of the tow vehicle chain loop. You want some slack so add a little bit of length to this measurement.

Lastly you will need to know the weight of your loaded trailer and make sure the safety chains you select are rated high enough for your specific trailer.

For example the 40" Vinyl Coated Safety Cables with Clevis Hook (Qty. 2) by Dutton-Lainson, 6,500 lbs. # DL20119 are 40" long and when combined have a 6500lb weight rating. If this matches the weight and measurement you got for your trailer this would be a great option.

If not just send me the chain length you need and the weight of your trailer and I would be happy to recommend the correct chain for you.

I included a video of the # DL20119 for you to take a look at.