Novice question...

I have a small single axle, landscape trailer. Used to pull it with my Explorer. Now with my 2016 F150, the attachment points on the F150 for the chains is recessed further than they were on the Explorer... and because of that, the chains are not long enough. The chains are permanently attached to the trailer arm (not removable). Is there any way for me to safely extend the chains myself, or am I going to have to take it somewhere and have the current chains extended or new ones welded on to the trailer?

 

I had the same problem. I used the screw together links to make mine longer. Use Loctite!

 

You can add a length of chain pretty easy. Just search Amazon or google for "quick link" and it should bring up what looks like a chain link with a screw open side. Use that to link the old and new chain and you should be set. Hope that helps.

 

Just make sure you use the right chain and connector to match your trailer load. You DON'T want your chains to snap because you used a connector with a light load rating. I was with a buddy trailering his boat, he forgot to lock the hitch shut and when the trailer came loose 3 miles into the drive his chains snapped because he secured them to his trailer with only a 5/16" bolt which snapped in half. He has a hole dead center in his tail-gate now and that was only at 10mph.

http://www.lowes.com/pd_184562-29318...11480004913685

http://www.etrailer.com/Accessories-...lywhoCWf7w_wcB

 

Excellent, thanks! I will have to use two links per side, since I have to cut the current chain off the trailer and then link new piece to trailer and to old chain.

 

I have a couple short pieces of chain I loop through the attachment points on each side to mate them longer for my extended drawbar. Check with a local farm store or hardware store for short excess pieces. I got mine for a couple dollars at True Value Hardware.

 

I use the coiled steel cable safety "chains". Never any dragging like I used to have with chains.

 

That ^^. Really don't need Loctite if you wrench them tight, but it doesn't hurt.

The picture didn't come through, but the screw-shut links are a good solution to safely extend the chains without cutting/welding.

 

I used to drag my utility trailer with a pickup then switched to a Honda CR-V for hauling short loads of firewood. The safety chains dragged a bit and were eventually compromised. They were welded on so I had to cut them off. Bought new chains and used heavy duty quick links to attach them to the frame. Adjustable too with the quick links depending on the towing vehicle and weight.

 

I was afraid he would only do them finger tight.. They aren't very strong if they unscrew all the way..