Share Pics of People Hauling or Towing Something Wrong

[Creamer]

It was probably Grandmas chair and she was getting shorter too. Just trying to help her out!

 

[rd_macgregor]

As these guys get more fatigued, an increasing amount of weight will fall onto the rear-view mirror. Also, a sudden stop could mean really serious splinter issues!

Not sure if this belongs here or not. It's "wrong" but not really that bad. Might get dangerous when the fatigue sets in if it's more than a 5 minute ride.

View attachment 507543

 

[KWRB]

...He did have this chains attached already, and IIRC, crossed...

Rgds, D.

I've always done this, but honestly it's only because I've seen it done that way. I realize now I have no idea why. I couldn't think of a better place to ask than here. So, why are chains crossed?

 

[aczlan]

I've always done this, but honestly it's only because I've seen it done that way. I realize now I have no idea why. I couldn't think of a better place to ask than here. So, why are chains crossed?

So they act as a "cradle" for the hitch if it comes off.

Aaron Z

 

[KWRB]

So they act as a "cradle" for the hitch if it comes off.

Aaron Z

Dang it! I tried to figure it out so I didn't have to ask... It's simple and makes PERFECT sense too! Doesn't that just bug the crap out of you?

 

[bcp]

In one of the states I've lived in, the requirement was that if the coupler came off the ball, the tongue had to be suspended by the safety chains and not touch the road.

I see large highway trailers with only one safety cable. (can't be crossed)

Bruce

 

[BigBlue1]

I've always done this, but honestly it's only because I've seen it done that way. I realize now I have no idea why. I couldn't think of a better place to ask than here. So, why are chains crossed?

I believe it would reduce the tendency of the trailer to sway wildly back and forth if the hitch does come undone. Uncrossed chains offer less resistance to side-to-side tongue movement. It will still sway some, but not as badly.

Rob

 

[Diamondpilot]

As stated, to cradle the coupler off the ground if the hitch fails.

 

[coldsteelva]

But, if you don't have trailer brakes good luck slowing down while keeping the coupler off the ground; as soon as you slow the trailer will roll into your rear end.

 

[KennyG]

But, if you don't have trailer brakes good luck slowing down while keeping the coupler off the ground; as soon as you slow the trailer will roll into your rear end.

Good point. I had a trailer coupler break and come off. The chains were short and the breakaway cable was long so it didn't brake. I needed a new bumper anyway. :confused3: