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Note: Chains are crossed. |
You must have two separate means of attachment
between your vehicle and the trailer.
- The chains should be long enough to allow the vehicle to corner
without binding, but not so long that they drag on the pavement.
Dragging can cause the chains to become worn and unsafe.
- Chains should always be of equal length on both sides.
- Safety chains should be crossed under the tongue to prevent the
tongue from dropping to the road should the primary hitch accidentally
disconnect. The right chain attaches to the left side and the left
chain attaches to the right side.
- It is recommended that chain hooks have latches or devices that
prevent accidental disconnect.
- The breaking strength of each chain should equal the gross weight of
the towed trailer. (See:
Chain grade charts.)
- Chains are required for goose neck trailers that use a ball and
socket hitch. Fifth-wheel type hitches that have safety latches do not
require safety chains.
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