Extending Safety Chains

If it were me and I just forked over the cash you did for the Propride, I would match the chain to OEM (I am guessing 3/8"). Get the proper length and have a reputable fabricator change it out for you. A quick link or clevis type link have more points of failure than a single length of chain.

This is a safety device....... it's not worth the guess.


IMO

Hmm ... diametrically opposed opinions. lol :)

Anyhow, if I only need to add a few inches to give me the desired length, I'm still at a loss for the best/safest way to do this. If I was to go the Clevis link route, which is what is included in the ProPride extension kit, I'd likely need to add only one or two links of chain! So it would go something like this: original chain, clevis link, new link (or two) of chain, hook. Is what I'm picturing in my mind accurate?

As opposed to: original chain, quick link, hook. Like I said before, the 3/8" quick links have a 2200# safe working limit. Is that inadequate?

Much thanks!

ScottG wrote:
No, don't use a quick link or any other kind of device like this. They have no where near the strength needed if the trailer comes loose and gives it a good jerk.

This is just not true. You can buy high tensile strength quick links just like you can buy high tensile strength chain.

That being said, it's almost just as easy and about as cheap just to get a length of good quality chain.

You might try Clevis Links As long as you stick to same size ends the 3/8 size is good for over 6000#. Using one on each chain extension will be good to over 12,000# total for both chains combined. I think Lowes carries them.

Well, on my trailer, it would be hard *for me* to change out the chains. They are attached to the tongue via a piece of steel that's welded to the trailer and I'm not a welder. lol

The quick links that I've seen available recently have a "safe working load" of *only* 2,200lbs.

I'm hoping that the chains I have will be long enough. But if not, the extension kit offered (http://www.propridehitch.com/products/Extension-Kit-for-ProPride-3P-or-Hensley-Arrow-.html) can be returned if I don't need it. Just seems like it might be a bit much to gain 2 - 4" of chain if I need it.

Looks like there are some strong links available. I would use good quality links if I needed them.

ScottG wrote:
No, don't use a quick link or any other kind of device like this. They have no where near the strength needed if the trailer comes loose and gives it a good jerk.

I agree, hook it up with the new hitch and if you need more chain length, buy enough to do the job. Not that hard to change out the chains and you have the strength if you should ever need it.

No, don't use a quick link or any other kind of device like this. They have no where near the strength needed if the trailer comes loose and gives it a good jerk.

Cool. Thanks. The reason I ask is because ProPride says you don't need their extension kit if your hook ups extend 24" past the front of the trailer. Our wiring harness is 28" past, the brake cable is 30" past (seems long), but the chains are only 26" past. I'm thinking that just a heavy duty (properly treated) quick link or two on either side would be enough length extension. Thoughts? Especially from ProPride owners. As always ... much thanks! :-)

No, you would only be holding up the tongue weight and tow weight of the trailer. Tow weight is not even close to lifting weight of the trailer even with full lock up on the brakes.

Shock loads can be pretty high when coming off of the hitch though. I think mine is 3/8" chain and it's pretty good quality.