Replacing 10k Total Trailer Chains That Are Welded On

Question:

I have a 10,000 lb trailer that I need to lengthen the chains due to a new hitch. The trailer has 24 inch chains and I need some 35 inch. What would be the best way to do this. Getting the current chains off will require cutting the chains off and to remount new ones will require a shackle or some other way because the attachment point is welded on with very little room to spare to get a shackle in it. It would be much simpler to splice the current chains if there was an acceptable load carrying way to splice them.

asked by: David E

Expert Reply:

Hey David; there isn't a way to splice chains, so your current ones will have to be cut off. As for adding new ones, if there isn't room for a shackle, would it be okay if the chains were a bit longer than 35 inches? If you hadn't been doing so, crossing the chains under the coupler may be a way to use longer chains without them dragging. That way you could use S-hooks to more easily attach the chains. If so you can use the 5,000 lb (per chain) rated Curt Safety Chain with S-Hooks # C80031.

The # C80031 are 47 inches long and would be the simplest option. The S-hook on these have a 7/16 inch diameter so that would also be something to be aware of as well.

expert reply by: Kyle S