Trailer chain?

[luckydude]

My Pacific trailer came with steel cables that are rusting out (and don't look strong enough to hold 7000 pounds of boat and trailer). I found some 5/16" anchor chain that claims a working strength of 2500 pounds, breaking strength of 5000 pounds. Do people think that is strong enough to keep the boat attached if the hitch some how breaks?

For that matter, has anyone ever had to depend on the safety chain/cable on their trailer? If so, what happened?

 

[232Grady]

Etrailer.com

 

[family affair]

Make sure it's galvanized, or you will be replacing that too in short order.
Likely a little light for a major wreck where the hitch comes uncoupled, but if you hitch your trailer correctly, you'll never need it.

 

[Fishtales]

I'd pop it up in diameter if you can.

 

[DennisG01]

It's not just about the size of the chain - but also the grade of chain. Meaning, two identical size chains can have different ratings. The chain you're referencing is awful light. You're existing cables are most likely much stronger - even if they have some surface rust on them. How bad is the rust? It may be inconsequential.

 

[seasick]

It depends on the gross load .

• Remember that the hardware ( hooks, etc) have to be as strong as the chain,

I found this on an RV site for sizing.

• Each chain must be independent of the other or of the coupling and shall have an ultimate strength at least equal to the gross weight of the trailer and its load

 

[DennisG01]

And, truthfully, even if the coupler pops off, you're not going to put the full weight of the rig on the chains. Unless you're this guy.......

 

[luckydude]

I'd pop it up in diameter if you can.

I went with 3/8 G80 7100 working load zinc coated.

 

[SeanC]

My Loadrite trailer for my 228 came with 1/2 inch chain.