I have a couple logging chains. Both are rated at 5,400 lbs., but one has a link repair that is only rated at 3,500 lbs. Also the links I use to connect the chains to my off-brand hi-lift are rated at 3,900 lbs.

Is this dangerous? I don't use cables, just the chains and hi-lift.

 

Rule of thumb is your chian/cable should be rated at least 1 1/2 times the weight of what your winching.

 

I just make it a general rule to not ever use chains.

 

Yeah chains can be extremely dangerous. I like the 1.5 rule as well but I try to not use them. A snatch strap works well but I have never used one with a highlift because I have my winch. Heck I try not to use my highlift as a "winch" works great as a trail jack though LOL.

 

Chains are a NO NO !
Get a snatch strap with NO metal on it.

And no, your repair link and hook are not rated to pull a JK out of the mud.
1.5 times the vehicle weight is the absolute minimum.

I grew up in Iowa farm country and we had chains on all the trucks and tractors. They were monsters, rated at 8 tons. You could safely pull a tractor with a loaded wagon behind it out of a mud hole. No jerking, just a steady pull with both tractors (the stuck one and the puller) driving. Never had anything break.

But remember, those were serious chains. I doubt anybody would pay the money for a properly rated chain these days. I wouldn't. Way too expensive. Get a snatch strap.

 

Guess the chains will stay with the tractor then and pick up a couple of recovery straps. Thanks guys.

 

I still have a couple of those around the homestead. I hardly ever use them because I am just getting too old to move them around. They are too heavy.

I just use the straps now instead.

 

"A chain is only as strong as its weakest link"

 

Agreed....chains are good for lifting and tying big ass things down. Not so hot for tugging and pulling in my opinion. Not to beat a dead horse...

 

Chains break. The 3500 lbs you are referring to is probably its safe working load limit. They are about 3-5 times stronger than that. Chains are great for maintaining stability on log trucks and keep the logs nice and snug. Straps are always the best way to go for winching. The best strap position is a basket form. The weakest strap form is the choker. Plus if a strap breaks it will be a lot safer to deal with than a chain flying back into your ride or head. Been there done that. Learn from other peoples mistakes lmao. I tow/recover vehicles for a living. Ive pretty much done/seen it all. In my experience straps are always a priority over chains.