Crossed Chains

RZRBUG

I know I've seen this mentioned before, but could not find the discussion.  I understand the concept of crossing the chains when hooking the T@B to the TV.  I was doing some prep work on the trailer today and when checking out the tongue area I noticed that crossing the chains on mine would be impossible.  Why?  Because both ends of the chain are connected to the trailer at the same point.  Was wondering if anyone else had run into this situation.  Is it really a problem, and should I undertake reattaching the chains to the tongue so that they can be crossed?

jbug10

That is weird, mine are in two separate  holes, however, I had to get longer chains installed because I needed an extension bar for the hitch because of my rear mounted spare tire.  U-Haul installed them, but they recommended I keep the original LG installed chains on even though I don't use them.  I'll check how those are installed this weekend and see if they are in the same hole.

scuba

The main reason for crossing the chains is to cradle the tongue in case it comes off the hitch. This keeps it off the pavement long enough for you to stop safely. I'd correct it if were me.

jbug10

scuba, thank you.  I always wondered why crossing the chains was so important; I just knew I was suppose to.

Wanderoo

My chains are purposely crossed.  I have two points to connect the chains to on the hitch (welded to the frame of my TV). I cross them before attaching them to the tongue of my T@B.  I have read about this concept on Trailer Life Magazine and watching videos of hitching up a trailer.  I think the concept makes sense.  @-)

belvagillespie

In reading the Atwood manual, there is a directive under Operation, item #9, - Cross safety chains under tongue and securely attach to bumper or frame of tow vehicle. 

Item #14 - DO NOT USE Atwood brake actuator with sway controller, unless prior Atwood Engineering approval of sway control system ha been received. I guess that settles that!

(We have the Atwood Hydraulic Surge Brake System).

I think we will find the best speed to travel to avoid the sway we have experienced. I am remembering a discussion M. Mike and Tom? had about the speeds they travel when towing their LGs. They each had a little different speed preference. Maybe we T@Bers can find that perfect speed for the T@Bs. 

We think that the poor road conditions, weather with wind and higher speeds contributed to the sway of the T@B during our last road trip. 

Must we say again, it's the Journey!

Cyclonic

As Scuba says, it is to cradle the tongue were it to come off the hitch.

My chains are connected at a single point as well, making crossing them impossible.  It is something I would like to change, but it is pretty low on the priority list.

[Deleted User]

Cyclonic said:

As Scuba says, it is to cradle the tongue were it to come off the hitch.

My chains are connected at a single point as well, making crossing them impossible.  It is something I would like to change, but it is pretty low on the priority list.

Ditto    I do however check the ball engagement and verify the locking lip is on the underside of the ball each and everytime I hook up.

Cyclonic

Same here, and I never expect to have a problem, with proper maintenance I never should, but I do prepare for one because strange things do happen 8-}