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how to hook up chains from trailer


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Just picked up a 2015 gmc 2500hd.in dec went to hook up my trailer but the hitch must have changed since my 2008 gmc. and now my hooks on the chains don't fit. Anyone else have a problem and what size hooks on chains do i need.. Thanks for your help.

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Yep! I switched from a 2013 Sierra 1500 to a 2015 Sierra 3500HD. I had to drop the adjustable hitch down 3" to keep the trailer level and now the chains are too short to cross. And they are a tight reach which may bind in tight turns. Definitely going to have to replace them with longer chains. Be sure to get the correct weight rated chain. The hooks don't clip all the way through either, but they connect securely enough to work okay. IMHO.

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Yep! I switched from a 2013 Sierra 1500 to a 2015 Sierra 3500HD. I had to drop the adjustable hitch down 3" to keep the trailer level and now the chains are too short to cross. And they are a tight reach which may bind in tight turns. Definitely going to have to replace them with longer chains. Be sure to get the correct weight rated chain. The hooks don't clip all the way through either, but they connect securely enough to work okay. IMHO.

 

Sold many places - not expensive-

 

shackles :a metal link, typically U-shaped, closed by a bolt, used to secure a chain or rope to something.

https://www.google.com/search?q=shackles&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8

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Cosmic Charlie, thanks. That may be the way I go on this travel trailer because we will be trading it for a 5th wheel after the first of the year and I don't want to spend $$$ for chains the next guy won't need or appreciate. Thanks for the link, the tongue weight is about 1175# on this 8500# trailer, so I will need a hefty shackle for sure. :thumbs:

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Watch the weight limit on those quick connects - most of them from your local box store will NOT support the weight of a trailer should they need to be used.

 

I know E-Trailer has ones that will support higher weights.

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Watch the weight limit on those quick connects - most of them from your local box store will NOT support the weight of a trailer should they need to be used.

 

I know E-Trailer has ones that will support higher weights.

I went with half inch quick couplers the ones pictured and they are rated for I want to say 5500 pounds apiece
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I would advise everyone to look into your local DOT laws. Any trailer repair shop SHOULD be up to speed on what is legal and what is not. DO NOT take advice from the RV salesman, they only want to sell the product.

 

I realize these are mostly your personal trailers, but Highway Patrol, DOT, etc does not care. These chains are there for safety, and you need to make sure your safety is not compromised by using incorrect couplers/shackles, wrong hooks that don't fully close, and improper chain lengths/size.

 

 

I've pulled enough trailers to realize the need for these safety devices.

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