What is the Preferred Method of Connecting Safety Chains from a Trailer to a Trailer Hitch

Question:

When connecting the safety chains, is there a preferred method for connecting them depending on how the hitch received is configured, either from the top or front, or from the bottom or behind?

asked by: Eileen G

Expert Reply:

Provided that you have safety chains rated as high or higher than the hitch capacity and they are securely connected to the safety chain loops on the trailer hitch, how you route them is not really an issue. You just do not want them to bind up (get wrapped around anything when making turns) as that could cause damage.

So what most people do is have some sort of loop, like # C82932, connected to the trailer and then have the chains connected to it. The chains are then connected straight to the loops on the hitch either with another loop or using a clevis hook like those found on # 1483-535-04. So, what I am explaining would be from the top and front. Hooking them on the back and underneath can cause the chains to bind.

You will also want to make sure that you cross the chains beneath the coupler. This is so should the trailer become disconnected from the ball, the chains will hold it off of the ground. I have included a link to an FAQ article that might be helpful.

expert reply by: Michael H