Safety Chains for a 2003 Zieman PWC Trailer that Weighs 1,200 Pounds
Updated 06/05/2014 | Published 06/04/2014 >
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I have a Zieman 2003 personal water craft trailer rated at 1200 pounds GRVW gross rated vehicle weight. What should the rated strength of the safety chain be? The trailer came new from the manufacturer with only one safety chain. I read on your web site two safety chains are actually required, is this a regulation and if so by whose authority? Is there some type of a formula for figuring chain requirements out?
asked by: Bruce F
Expert Reply:
You will want your safety chains to at least match the gross trailer weight but preferably you will go over that. Safety chain # 2118-605-04 is rated for 5000 pounds breaking strength so it is definitely enough for your PWC trailer. But you can't beat the price for the capacity.
A good rule of thumb is to take the breaking strength, in this case 5,000 pounds, and divide by 3. If the result is still greater than the gross trailer weight, in this case 1,667 pounds, then it is safe to use.
You may also be interested in quick links # C82932 on the trailer, hitch, or both. This makes mounting the chains easier.
There is no one Federal law that all states have to go by for safety chains. You will need to check with your local DMV office for the requirements in your state.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Laclede 27" Long Trailer Safety Chain w/ 7/16" Hook - 1,250 lbs Weight Capacity - Qty 1
- Trailer Safety Chains
- 1/4 Inch Diameter
- Standard Trailer
- 27 Inch Long
- 5000 lbs
- Single Chain
- S-Hooks
- Laclede Chain
more information >
Continue Researching
- Q&A: How to Choose Correct Capacity for Trailer Safety Chains
- Q&A: Wiring Instructions and Diagram for the LED Amber Quad Flash Kit for Trucks and Trailers
- Q&A: Wiring a LED Amber Quad Flash Kit for Use on a Snow Plow Truck
- Q&A: How to Measure for a Replacement Axle, Hubs, and Leaf Springs for a Boat Trailer
- Q&A: Comparing Dexter And etrailer Brand 6,000 lb Axles
- Q&A: Is The TowSmart 14 Gauge, 4 Conductor Wire 100% Copper Wire?
- Q&A: Which Way Do You Look at Hinge for Lippert Screen Door Slider Panel with Push-Down Knob Opener
- Article: Determining Trailer Tongue Weight
- Article: Trailer Lighting Requirements
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: 7 Common Questions Everyone Has About Trailer Tires
- Article: Installing Electric Brake Controls on 24 Volt Vehicles
- Article: 4 Steps to Choosing Your 5th Wheel Pin Box

