Forum Discussion

RJsfishin's avatar
RJsfishin
Explorer
Oct 25, 2014

Saftey Chains on Tow Dolly

Dolly towing not much more difficult than a tow bar, except for hookin up the safety chains.
I'm thinking of an easier way so as to not have to crawl under the toad.
What about just an extra set of straps w/ big snaps mounted to both ends, thrown over the first ones ?
I think code calls for chain, cable, or straps, so seems this would qualify. Or they could be chain, kinda like a set of tire snow chains
Whatcha all think?

16 Replies

  • Road master states it is up to the person if they want to use safety chains, same with master tow. You are using basket straps made of 12000 lb webbing with a braking figure of 5000 lbs on each wheel. If chains make you feel better use them. New York does not require safety chains from dolly to car on dolly but all states require safety chains from dolly to towing vehicle. Acme EZ TOW dolly gives you safety chains with their dolly.
  • Our RAV4 had tie downs on the frame used for shipping that I used for the safety chains.
    • cvholmes's avatar
      cvholmes
      Explorer

      What year RAV 4? I have a 2024 Limited and see nowhere to attach chains.  Thanks

  • What are you towing? On all of my vehicles, I have a tiedown hole at the front of the frame on both sides. My safety chain fit through that hole without me having to do more than sit on the towbar frame and lean over. When I first got my dolly, I knelt down on the ground in order to fish the chain through, but soon learned that I didn't have to do that. The only thing I have to do is take the "D" ring off of the chain to fit it through the frame tiedown hole.
    The safety chain is the safest setup, although cables and proper straps are ok. My chains were rated for 6,000 lbs and came with my Roadmaster.
    Again, after learning that I didn't have to crawl under or kneel on the ground to connect my safety chains, I was happy with that setup.
    I changed toads to a rear wheel drive and no longer have my dolly. That is the only reason I got rid of it though. I now tow 4 down with a towbar. I'm happy both ways.
  • Some trailer dollies come with the web style straps that go over the tires like what the snow chains do. They are then tightened with a ratchet style device.
    look through this manual from Roadmaster. It gives some incite.
    Dolly manual