Tire Chain Use on Tandem Axle Horse Trailer with Electric Brakes

Question:

If I ever needed to chain up the horse trailer yes it has electric brakes, would I chain up the front set, rear set, or all four of them? Thank you

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

If your tandem axle horse trailer has brakes on both axles then ideally you will want to install compatible tire chains on both axles, all four tires. This will do more to avoid the trailer trying to get ahead of you (!) on a slippery road surface. Even if you do not need the chains to slow the trailer they will still help to avoid lateral movement of the trailer on the road.

Laws vary by state concerning use of tire chains on trailers. California and Oregon, for example, require chains on some trailers with electric brakes. I suggest checking the laws in your specific travel areas.

Diamond pattern or diagonal pattern chains like # TC2326 or # TC747DC are preferred for trailers since their designs provide the most lateral sway control. Traditional ladder style chains like # TC2828CAM offer little resistance to lateral movement. You might care to review the linked article concerning tire chains.

Use of any tire chain requires careful matching to the tire size and a check to ensure there are no clearance issues within the fender wells or with other trailer components.

expert reply by: Adam R