What size chain binders and chains?

[HCJtractor]

I plan to replace my ratchet strap binders with chains and ratchet load binders. I tow a 70 horse Kubota on a gooseneck and normal implements like rotary cutters, etc. I'm thinking about the ratchet style rather than the lever style. Looks like Northern has all I need. What size chains? 5/16 or 3/8? And I assume I need grade 70 chains? Any tips or advise?

 

[Diamondpilot]

6 5/16 chains and binders and you will be good to go.

Chris

 

[Gary Fowler]

For my tractor, I go with 4 of the 3/8" grade 70 chains-one at each corner. I have a little safety margin that way for my 10K pound tractor with FEL. I use separate 2" wide ratchet straps on the FEL and anything else attached. IIRC (its been a while since I used them) they are rated at 10K pounds. I don't mind using straps on attached items as they are not coming off anyway, but law requires them tied down. If the straps wear on a sharp corner, I am not going to loose my load. I prefer chains for my tractor.

 

[RedNeckRacin]

Gotta be grade 70 chain. Get the ratchet binders, The lever binders are cheaper, but not forgiving. They also can bounce open if not tied shut. The ratchet binders are a little slower, but I think I can get them much tighter.

 

[Xfaxman]

Definitely get the ratchet binders. :thumbsup:

 

[mikehaugen]

Definitely get the ratchet binders. :thumbsup:
<img src="http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=387969"/> <img src="http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=387970"/> <img src="http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=387971"/> <img src="http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=387972"/>

That's cool, I don't remember ever seeing binders with the folding handle.

 

[LD1]

Not sure what others experience is, but if you do get the ratchet binders, keep a can of wd-40 or similar in your truck. and keep the threads and ratcheting part lubed every once in awhile.

 

[HCJtractor]

I was looking at those folding handle versions online. I agree those look to have advantages over the standard type. I also see on your photos how you attached both ends of the chain to the tractor and trailer rails respectively and then took up slack in the middle. Never thought of that. Duh! I wondered how the short chain on the binder itself would reach thru the trailer rail. Is that how everyone does it?

And another question. Do you use one chain at each corner (4 chains and binders total) or run one longer chain from from one corner across tractor to the opposite corner and use one binder ( so two chains and binders total)?

What length chains should I buy? Is 3/8 overkill?

 

[Xfaxman]

That's cool, I don't remember ever seeing binders with the folding handle.

Yep, makes them easy to store also.

They have a neutral detent on the ratchet, makes it quicker to adjust, just rotate the black rubber grip with your hands.


I got them at a store in Oklahoma City, that sells transport chain and equipment.

 

[Gary Fowler]

I was looking at those folding handle versions online. I agree those look to have advantages over the standard type. I also see on your photos how you attached both ends of the chain to the tractor and trailer rails respectively and then took up slack in the middle. Never thought of that. Duh! I wondered how the short chain on the binder itself would reach thru the trailer rail. Is that how everyone does it?

And another question. Do you use one chain at each corner (4 chains and binders total) or run one longer chain from from one corner across tractor to the opposite corner and use one binder ( so two chains and binders total)?

What length chains should I buy? Is 3/8 overkill?

I would rather use 4 of the 3/8" gr. 70 chains than 6 -5/16" any day. I also use the 9200 # rating ratchet rather than the lighter ones (5200?). Legally you have to have a separate chain & binder for each corner. You cant use one chain and 1 binder for each side (or front /rear) of the tractor, so yes you need 4 short chains and 4 binders plus a chain or strap to hold down each attached implement like FEL, backhoe, bush hog, box blade etc.

You use your binder to take up the middle slack in a chain, each end of the chain is attached to trailer/equipment.