slack in safety chains

Still does make any difference when the chains are attached at the same point on the A frame. They will not make the X shape unless they are attached at two different points on the tongue. Your sample shows them attached at 2 different points. Yes this will create an X shape in the chains. But from the same point you will always end up with a V shape. If the chains do not have excessive slack the trailer still should not drag in the event of separation. But the single point of attachment on the trailer tongue will not create a cradle. All you have are twisted chains.

We're camping this week-end and I'll be hitching up tonight. I'll attach a photo here after I'm hitched.