Chain Link Setting on Blue Ox SwayPro

Updated 05/22/2025 | Published 05/20/2025

Question:

When I picked up the trailer the tech told me to set the chains on the 7th link, counting from the end of the chains. Leaving their driveway, the U bolt at the end of the bars scraped the concrete realy hard, and did it on just about any dip at intersections. Can I set them on the 8th link or do I have to go two link, to the 9th, to prevent twisting the chains quarter turn.

asked by: Ernesto E

Expert Reply:

Hello Ernesto; are you talking about the Blue Ox SwayPro like # BXW1000? If so, I would move it to the 9th link. The chain can be adjusted, it doesn't have to stay set on the 7th. The instructions actually say to insert the 9th chain link from the top (opposite the u-bolt) into the slot of the latch. They also state you can advance it to the 10th or 11th link to compensate for changes. I attached a picture with the instructions and linked the full installation instructions further down on this page for your reference.

expert reply by: Robin H

SwayPro Instructions
(click to enlarge)

Ernesto E.

5/22/2025

Thank you for your answer Robin. Mine is a Blue Ox, 0550. Since I asked the original question, I have driven it on the 9th link and it made a huge difference. My question though, is about my concern if I go to the 8th or 10th links. This scenario would cause the chain to be "twisted", one quarter turn. Is that a problem? I have heard that twisting a chain could reduce their tensile strength!!!

Robin H.

5/22/2025

@ErnestoE they don't have any exclusions, I recommended the 9th since that is where they said to start. Since they say the 10th is fine it shouldn't be an issue for the 8th since the links alternate directions.