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Outdoor & Recreation
Campers, Vans & 4WD's
VicRoads - Caravan and Towing Requirements
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<blockquote data-quote="condor22" data-source="post: 136819" data-attributes="member: 1932"><p>Invariably, the chains are the strong point and rated to at least the trailer ATM. However, most chains are welded to caravan draw bars, and are galvanised.</p><p>Unless done properly can be subject to hydrogen embrittlement particularly in higher carbon steel content. I truly think the weakest point is the weld, particularly if poorly done.</p><p></p><p>Trailers <2.5T must be fitted with at least 1 chain of at least 9.5mm dia. Over this and up to 3.5T 2 chains and comply with AS4177-4.</p><p></p><p>My van has an ATM of 1800kg, so could be fitted with 1 chain. It has 2. Also each chain is bolted to the A frame using high tensile bolts in shear, each stronger than any other point.</p><p></p><p>The other weak point could be the towbar where the shackles fit. So it all comes down to the quality and adherence to standards and not just the shackles. </p><p></p><p>I've seen on caravan forums where people have picked up their new van to find the chains too short to reach their towbar and been given solutions such as;</p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Use enough shackles joined in line to make the distance.[/*]</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Join another piece of chain using a shackle [/*]</li> </ul><p></p><p>Is better than no chain, but both wrong.</p><p></p><p>If 2 chains are used, they should be crossed under the draw bar, be long enough to cater for maximum turn, but short enough to carry the draw bar to stop it digging into the ground.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="condor22, post: 136819, member: 1932"] Invariably, the chains are the strong point and rated to at least the trailer ATM. However, most chains are welded to caravan draw bars, and are galvanised. Unless done properly can be subject to hydrogen embrittlement particularly in higher carbon steel content. I truly think the weakest point is the weld, particularly if poorly done. Trailers <2.5T must be fitted with at least 1 chain of at least 9.5mm dia. Over this and up to 3.5T 2 chains and comply with AS4177-4. My van has an ATM of 1800kg, so could be fitted with 1 chain. It has 2. Also each chain is bolted to the A frame using high tensile bolts in shear, each stronger than any other point. The other weak point could be the towbar where the shackles fit. So it all comes down to the quality and adherence to standards and not just the shackles. I've seen on caravan forums where people have picked up their new van to find the chains too short to reach their towbar and been given solutions such as; [list=*] [*]Use enough shackles joined in line to make the distance.[/*] [*]Join another piece of chain using a shackle [/*] [/list] Is better than no chain, but both wrong. If 2 chains are used, they should be crossed under the draw bar, be long enough to cater for maximum turn, but short enough to carry the draw bar to stop it digging into the ground. [/QUOTE]
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Outdoor & Recreation
Campers, Vans & 4WD's
VicRoads - Caravan and Towing Requirements
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