Highbeam
Super Member
"I appreciate the issue of regulations making certain chain types manditory but at a practical level, if the chain has an appropriate load rating, does grade make any difference?"
I would say no to both. No the regulations don't require a certain grade and no, it makes no difference so long as the WLL is appropriate for the load. Check out one of the last posts, a long one, on that "proper way to bind a tractor" thread. People use straps, ropes, chains, cable and whatever else meets the strength requirements of the regs. Chain is very tough and you don't see people talking about failed chain while in transport. You do see members sharing stories of failed strap.
On anchoring a boat, there some decent loads to deal with but they are all limited to the inertia of the moving boat within its riggings on water. The boat can always slip in the water. The tractor/trailer combo can hit something solid and needs to absorb some shock loading. Now when trailering a big ol' boat I would think that similar rules apply.
I would say no to both. No the regulations don't require a certain grade and no, it makes no difference so long as the WLL is appropriate for the load. Check out one of the last posts, a long one, on that "proper way to bind a tractor" thread. People use straps, ropes, chains, cable and whatever else meets the strength requirements of the regs. Chain is very tough and you don't see people talking about failed chain while in transport. You do see members sharing stories of failed strap.
On anchoring a boat, there some decent loads to deal with but they are all limited to the inertia of the moving boat within its riggings on water. The boat can always slip in the water. The tractor/trailer combo can hit something solid and needs to absorb some shock loading. Now when trailering a big ol' boat I would think that similar rules apply.