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Captain_Skippy's avatar
Captain_Skippy
Explorer
Apr 29, 2016

5th wheel and tow chains

I have looked at various forums and cannot get a definitive answer. Are tow chains required on fifth wheel campers with goose neck adapters? I will be making a multistate trip this summer and don't want to be on the wrong side of the law. I have seen post on Various forums that say yes and no. I may put them on anyway. If I did, how long would they need to be?
  • rhagfo's avatar
    rhagfo
    Explorer III
    Apr 30, 2016
    Last I looked 37 states require safety chains for ball type hitches. This is for all ball type the Anderson and goose balls.
  • Captain_Skippy's avatar
    Captain_Skippy
    Explorer
    Apr 30, 2016
    hbillsmith wrote:
    I use coiled cables.


    Could you provide a photo or a link to your cables? I don't really want chains dragging around in my truck bed.
  • Captain_Skippy's avatar
    Captain_Skippy
    Explorer
    Apr 30, 2016
    I'm in SC, travel frequently to GA, NC, and FL. From what I've read GA and FL says campers are required to have chains. Didn't see any reference to 5ers. SC does say 5ers are exempt but doesn't mention gooseneck type.
  • IdaD's avatar
    IdaD
    Explorer
    Apr 30, 2016
    newman fulltimer wrote:
    If using a/adapter to gooseneck chains are required


    This is true some of the time, but not in all states. It varies so you need to check the laws where you'll be towing.
  • johntank's avatar
    johntank
    Explorer
    Apr 30, 2016
    On the 5er that I had and used a gooseneck adapter my chains (3/8" grade 70) were about 42" long they went from the OE pin box to the adapter then to the safety chain loops in the bed.
  • BB_TX's avatar
    BB_TX
    Nomad
    Apr 29, 2016
    If it is a ball type connection I know some states require chains. You would probably need to check each state you plan to tow thru.

    Here is info from etrailer.com.

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