Question

The Trailer Boat Experts

Is it OK to cross my safety chains a few times in order to take up excess length? L. Rassolough, Valparaiso, IN

L. Rassolough

Answered on: 6/2005

MIKE: Safety chains are crossed to keep the tongue from dragging on the ground in the event that your trailer detaches from the tow vehicle. You also want to keep the chains from binding or becoming too tight while turning. With multiple twists in the chain you may be causing the chains to bind and not slide smoothly across each other. If they are too long, cut them to length so that you achieve a single cross and allow enough for turning. While we are on the topic of chains, check with your local transportation authority regarding the regulations on how the chains are to be connected to the vehicle. Some states (CA and OR for sure) are mandating the use of equipment that securely attaches the chains such as a shackle or a "keeper" device, that will not allow an "S" hook to become dislodged while in transit.

The Trailer Boat Expert: Mike