Properly Attaching Trailer Hitch Safety Chains
Dave SolbergIn this free video lesson, RV maintenance expert Dave Solberg shows you how to properly and safely attach trailer hitch safety chains to avoid sagging and binding. You want to ensure that the chains have enough clearance from the distribution bar, but not so much that they sag to the ground, and not so little that they bind when going around corners.
The key to properly attached trailer hitch safety chains is crisscrossing one underneath the other. This is required by law in some states, but it’s also essential for safety. Follow along with Dave’s advice for correctly hooked safety chains, and you’ll be all set for your next towing adventure!
Good comment on the crisscrossing of chains but never twist chains since this can weaken them when put under pressure. If too long, cut a link out of the chain.
I see the cross chain tip all the time. Of the four trailers i have owned, they all had the chains attached to a single point on the tongue. That makes crossing irrelevant. What say you to this?
Hi there Gene!
That’s a great question!
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Sincerely,
Jessica
RV Repair Club Video Membership
Two things I might point out on the safety chain video. First the chains seemed awfuly light duty for the size of the trailer and second the safety pin on the truck wasn’t pushed in far enough. I realize the hitch pin may never come out even if the smaller pin isn’t in, but it looks bad. Newbies might think it OK.
Hi there Dan!
Thank you for the feedback! I’ll forward this onto our team!
Sincerely,
Jessica
RV Repair Club Video Membership