Q&A - How Strong do my Safety Chains Have to be?

Question: I have a trailer that is rated at 10,000 lbs. It is a pintle hook setup and we have two safety chains. What size is required? We would never be carrying anything over 4000 lbs on the trailer.

Answer: The safety chains or cables that your trailer is equipped with must be equal in strength to the main coupler of the trailer. You can usually read the coupler capacity stamped into the metal at or near the coupler itself.

There must be at least two chains or cables present, they must be of adequate length and in good condition.