Binder chains

poli33 · May 18, 2010

Info: have a gooseneck trailer and haul a skid steer/mulcher. Weight is around 14,000 lbs. I've read enough on this forum to say I should be using chain instead of straps. 70 grade. 4 corners.

Question: Size? 5/16 or 3/8

Thanks in advance for any thoughts.

grnspot110 · May 18, 2010

That much weight, I'd go with the 3/8". Better safe, than sorry!

DavidNPro · May 18, 2010

In my opinion you would definitely want to go with the 3/8 chain. The general rule of thumb is that one chain should be able to hold approximately half the weight of the machine. The working load on a 3/8 chain is around 6600lbs which would put your right at about half... Also, the price difference its usually not too much, so I opted for 3/8 when I was buying even though its a little much for my tractor. It seems like its somewhat more common around the parts I am from at least.

George2615 · May 18, 2010

For the that weight you should use 3/8" grade 70 or greater

chain.

Gr 70 Chain Specs

poli33 · May 18, 2010

3/8 is what I figured, just needed confirmation. Thanks to everyone who replied.

KeithInSpace · May 18, 2010

I use 5/16, but the heaviest my machine gets is just over 3,000# with FEL, BH, and MMM attached.

At 14k#, 3/8 G70 seems very appropriate. Very smart to get away from straps. Very delicate, those things. Helpful in some ways, but I've had an awful time trying to transport with them. Chain, good.

brokenknee · May 22, 2010

DOT regulations require you to secure the load by 1/2 its weight. So if your tractor weights 14,000lbs the total working load of your fasteners need to be rated at least 7,000lbs.

The rating DOT allows per chain also depends on how you use them to fasten the load. If you are using the chain to go from one side of the trailer back to the same side, you get half the rated working load of the chain. If you use the chain to go from one side of your trailer through your tractor to the other side of your tractor, you get the full working load of the chain.

If you have a fel you must also secure that in some way. Chain/strap or pin it down. I know there have been comments on here on how stupid this is, but that is the federal regulations. It is more of a problem with backhoes that do work their way up and hit bridges.

Don't forget the binders, they also have to be rated for have the load.

To answer your question two 5/16" grade seven chains (2X4700= 9400lbs) would meet DOT requirements if used correctly.

Edit: you will need at least four tie downs since your tractor is over 10,000 lbs.