Forum Discussion

TxTiger's avatar
TxTiger
Explorer
Jun 18, 2016

Chain Size

The previous owner cut the lenghts of the threaded rods in the Torklift XLs that came with my TC. Torklift gave me the correct measurement of the rod lenght, and recommended I use chain to make up the difference in lenght until I order new rods. My TC weights 1,450 dry, and I'm just picking it up and bringing it home, so it won't be loaded. I went to Tractor Supply and got the appropriate chain lenghts in 3/8" with an 800 lb rating. I'm now wondering if I should go back and get something heavier. You guys think I'll be ok with what I have, or get heavier?
Truck Campers

12 Replies

  • Steve_in_29's avatar
    Steve_in_29
    Explorer
    Jun 18, 2016
    Kayteg1 wrote:
    During accident lot of elements are exposed to 2-5G, so it is hard to draw a line.
    The SS chain I bought is thinner than fastguns recommended, but then SS is generally stronger than black steel.
    Then in case of accident do I really want the camper to stay behind my cabin?
    Lot of factors to consider, but coming from ClassA motorhome I think I am way safer comparing to motorhomes that have no accident integrity above the floor level.

    Absent a roll over the G-Forces acting on the truck and camper are going to be basically the same so the chain isn't going to be stressed that much. Much more likely the tie-down points on the camper will fail before the chain does.

    That being said, I see nothing wrong with going for a stronger chain (within reason)
  • SoCalDesertRid1's avatar
    SoCalDesertRid1
    Explorer II
    Jun 18, 2016
    True, class A motorhomes don't usually fair too well in a rollover. Thin plywood and 1x2's don't make for a very good roll cage.
  • Kayteg1's avatar
    Kayteg1
    Explorer II
    Jun 18, 2016
    During accident lot of elements are exposed to 2-5G, so it is hard to draw a line.
    The SS chain I bought is thinner than fastguns recommended, but then SS is generally stronger than black steel.
    Then in case of accident do I really want the camper to stay behind my cabin?
    Lot of factors to consider, but coming from ClassA motorhome I think I am way safer comparing to motorhomes that have no accident integrity above the floor level.
  • Steve_in_29's avatar
    Steve_in_29
    Explorer
    Jun 18, 2016
    Kayteg1 wrote:
    I bought stainless steel chain at Home Depot for my 4500 lb camper.
    I think it come with about 2000lb breaking strength.
    Technically it is underrated, but I am willing to take minimal risk for the looks.

    It is actually overkill as the chain isn't supporting the weight of the camper, merely holding it in place.
  • Steve_in_29's avatar
    Steve_in_29
    Explorer
    Jun 18, 2016
    TxTiger wrote:
    3/8 is a mistake, it is 3/16 with an 800 lb work load.

    You are good to go.
  • Kayteg1's avatar
    Kayteg1
    Explorer II
    Jun 18, 2016
    I bought stainless steel chain at Home Depot for my 4500 lb camper.
    I think it come with about 2000lb breaking strength.
    Technically it is underrated, but I am willing to take minimal risk for the looks.
  • SoCalDesertRid1's avatar
    SoCalDesertRid1
    Explorer II
    Jun 18, 2016
    TxTiger wrote:
    3/8 is a mistake, it is 3/16 with an 800 lb work load.
    That will be just fine
  • SoCalDesertRid1's avatar
    SoCalDesertRid1
    Explorer II
    Jun 18, 2016
    3/8" chain is way overkill, unless you're trying to hold the camper on the truck, while the truck is hanging upside down from a crane.

    1/4" chain is more than enough.

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