What size chains and binders for CUT?

[FreedomFamilyFarms]

I recently traded up to a tandem axle 16’ landscape trailer so I can move my Kubota B2710. I trailered it last weekend and used large ratchet straps to secure it.

I didn’t like how I had to rig things. The buckles on the straps would not fit into the stake pockets. My neighbor inspected the load and didn’t like the straps due how they could wear by rubbing on the stake pockets and the tractor.

I found a Tractor Mike video on YouTube showing how to secure a tractor to a trailer. Securing a Tractor to a Trailer - YouTube He uses chains and ratchet binders. I found two common sizes on Amazon. Which one is more appropriate for a B series Kubota with loaded rears and a flail mower? Guessing the whole load is around 5,000 pounds. The price difference is negligible but if the smaller chains are lighter and easier to work with I might go with those.

3/8 chains and binders $236

5/16 chains and binders $218

 

[Peter 315]

I have 3/8 chains just in case i have to haul other stuff and my wife gets them for cost:thumbsup:

 

[Reb954]

Neither of your links would open for me.

I use Grade 70 5/16" chain which is rated for 4,700 lbs. Typically I cross chain my tractor front and back using 4 chains so that equals 18,800 lbs of holding power. The tractor isn't going anyplace.

 

[LD48750]

Two or more 5/16" chains will secure anything your trailer is rated to haul.
The lighter chains ARE easier to work with and WILL hold your tractor safely on your trailer.

 

[FreedomFamilyFarms]

Thanks LD, that's really what I was looking to understand. Reb, I updated the links.

 

[bdog]

5/16 is plenty. I secure my 20,000 lb machine with four 3/8 chains. Four 5/16 grade 70 chains will allow you to legally secure something up to 18,800 lbs.

 

[BrokeFarmerJohn]

Amazon.com: 5/16 Peerless QuikBinder Plus Ratchet Binder 7,1# WLL Chain Tow H5125-658: Automotive

I bought two of these and use them on existing 5/16 chains. These binders are awesome.

Anything under 12,000lbs only requires 2 chains.

People weld D rings to their tractor as good anchor point on front and a shackle on the drawbar for the rear.

Their is axle straps you can use also if welding a D ring doesn’t work so it’s not a chain scratching paint up front.

Amazon.com: Shackles 3/4" (2 PACK) LIBERRWAY D ring Shackle Rugged Off Road Shackles 28.5 Ton (57, lbs) Maximum Break Strength with 7/8'' Pin Heavy Duty D Ring for Jeep Vehicle Recovery, Black: Automotive

Amazon.com: Keeper (4228) 36" x 2" Premium Axle Strap with D-Ring: Automotive

 

[schmism]

I have a mix of 5/16 new and 3/8 old chain.

I use a combination of ratchet binders and cam binders. I usually use a cam binder in the front (first) and a ratchet in the rear. I have been known to double up on the binders. use a cam binder to start and then put a ratchet on second. makes for easy adjustments later when things loosen up down the road and i can just put a few more cranks on the ratchet instead of having to wrestle another link into the camover.

 

[brokenknee]

Chains and binders need to be rated for half the weight of your load (tractor). How you use your chains depends on if you get the full rating of the chain/binger or only half.

If chains are connected to one side of the trailer to the load (tractor) then to the other side of the trailer you get credit for the full rating of chain and binder.

If the chain is connected to one side of the trailer to the load (tractor) and then back to the same side of the trailer you only get half credit for the chain and binder.

The load also has to be secured from any movement, so usually a minimum of two tie downs are required (there are exceptions to this).

Also if the load exceeds 10,000 pounds then it is necessary to secure all four corners of the load.

These are DOT regulations

 

[FreedomFamilyFarms]

Planning to use 4 chains and binders and to go with the 5/16 set based on the advice here. I like the redundancy of 4 separate tie downs and that gives my equipment some room to grow. Thank you TBN for the great advice and experience.