how to hook up chains from trailer

rjkinpa · March 30, 2016

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.

DBTravelers · March 30, 2016

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.

Cosmic Charlie · March 30, 2016

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

DBTravelers · March 30, 2016

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.

LongrangeLauber · March 30, 2016

Thought about a set of 1/2" shackles? May need even two per side

rjkinpa · March 31, 2016

It just seems like a odd set up nothing like the old one i had on the 2008 gmc 2500. anyone have pics of their setup?

LongrangeLauber · March 31, 2016

It just seems like a odd set up nothing like the old one i had on the 2008 gmc 2500. anyone have pics of their setup?

Obviously on a 1500 but same scenario

rjkinpa · March 31, 2016

I'll have to post a pic of new hitch your picture is like my old gmc.. new one totally different where chains hook up

jhplak325 · March 31, 2016

I believe the hitch changed in 2011 when the new frame on the HD's came out.

I lucked out with my travel trailer and chains hook up fine.

check this link out, others have had the same issue http://www.duramaxforum.com/forum/towing-hauling/159903-hook-safety-chains.html

crankman · April 1, 2016

Just hang a couple of those cable quick links and your good. No big deal. Did the exact same thing as rdnckhntr94 works great.

SouthpawHD · April 1, 2016

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.

LongrangeLauber · April 1, 2016

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

sahls01gmc · April 1, 2016

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.