Chain, cable?

[TractorLegend]

I don't have a loose hoe like another poster, /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif but want opinions on chain to use for lifting with a CK30 for utility purpose- theres different grades (40, 70) and size link 1/4, 5/16, 3/8) . Whats the general concensus on length, hooks on the ends? And is cable better? Just for the occasional need to drag tree poles, attempt various he-man deeds. I would like very much to not have the chain break, snap back and kill the operaor (me) /forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif I will be mounting hooks or the angle iron with slits idea to the loader.

 

[KiotiJohn]

I generally use grade 70 5/16 chain with grab hooks for most everything.
John

 

[RedRocker]

A cable would be more likely to "snap back", a chain doesn't store a lot of kinetic energy.

 

[Justaplain]

A chain will break "right now" but a cable will strand and give you a chance. bcs

 

[bczoom]

I personally would prefer a chain over a cable.
Cable is harder to spool or stash in a storage box. Cable also gives nasty slivers.
For various purpose use, either a 5/16 or 3/8 chain should be fine. I'd put grab hooks on both ends.
I have also switched to nylon straps for a lot of projects. Much lighter than either chain or cable.

 

[Egon]

Think I'd prefer an oversized chain and an assortment of clevises and grabhooks placed in accordance with your job requirements.

It's easy to change positions of hooks on the chain and by using one well oversized chances of breakage or strain damage are limited.

For really long pulls cable and snatch blocks woud be a good choice. Cables do not store easily and are always poking holes in your gloves and hands.With the proper attachments the cable can be grabbed to a lenght that suits your needs.

Nylon slings with looped ends are great for lifting if the proper hooks are used. They prettywell require the correct length .

Industrial lifting applications may not allow chain as it can not be inspected for strain damage. Cables and straps can be inspected.

Egon

 

[SpinyMouse]

I use a galvanized 3/8 chain with a grab hook at each end with my LK3054XS. I've used it to move logs up to 19" diameter, granite steps, big rocks, and pull stumps. My bucket has two grab hooks welded on and I have a 3PH frame with two grab hooks attached with clevis pins. It works great.

 

[JerryG]

I have a couple of 10' lengths of 5/16" chain with grab hooks that I have used for years. I don't need a longer chain very often. One other thing that I do use some is a chain shortener. That is 5 links of 5/16" chain with grab hooks on both ends.

 

[familyman]

I have several 14' lengths and one 20' length of 3/8" grade 43, with hooks at boths ends. Shorter pieces would not be useful to me. I've used them to lift some heavy stumps and logs, skid trees, pull a dead Ford Bronco and secure the tractor to a trailer. I don't think the chains have even noticed these loads, and I doubt that I'll really ever challenge them with that kind of work.
I would only use cable if it was unfrayed and heavy, and chain is much handier to store and use.