3 Different Types of Chains for Your Projects

When a rope just won’t do, it’s time for the chains. Utility chains are a great solution for a lot of needs, so let’s take a look at their various uses and some different types of chains you may encounter.

1. Towing

Towing another vehicle is probably the number one automotive use for chains. When you don’t have a trailer or a flatbed to put a vehicle on, going old-school and hooking it up to the tow vehicle with a chain is a time-honored solution.

Of course, it needs to be the right chain — strong enough to handle the weight and stress. There’s a rating system for chains that ranges from G30 to G120 (the “G” stands for “grade”). The higher the grade, the stronger the chain. Professional tow truck operators never use less than a G70 or G80. Chains rated below G70 don’t have the tensile strength needed for towing a vehicle. If they’re applied in this way, they can stretch, or worse, break. In fact, using a chain that’s too weak is unsafe and, in most states, illegal.

There’s another factor in load limits beyond the “G” rating. Chain sizes range from 1/4 inch to 5/8 inch. A 1/4-inch G100 chain’s working load limit is 4,300 pounds. A 5/8 inch G100 chain has a limit of 22,000 pounds.

2. Lifting

Moving things around the shop can get a bit more complicated when it involves heavy objects. Most shops have an engine hoist which is great when coupled with an engine crane load leveler. The load leveler has length of sturdy chain already attached, ready to fasten to the engine. A jack screw allows the balance point of the leveler to move fore and aft to tilt the engine. But an engine hoist is also great for saving your back. Rear axles, transmissions, even shop equipment can all be moved around using an engine hoist and utility chain.

If you are lucky to have a sturdy overhead beam (consult and engineer first) or a gantry you can opt for a chain hoist. The classic chain hoist uses gear reduction to multiple the pulling force of the user to lift a much greater load than normal. Always keep in mind the weight of the load being moved and choose the lifting chain and lifting tool accordingly.

3. Equipment Tie-Down

The pros call this type of chain a “load-binder,” and the same rules apply: The bigger and heavier the thing you want to secure is, the larger and stronger the chain needs to be. A riding lawnmower is one thing, but a tractor will take an altogether different chain. For large equipment check with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and their current rules on securing cargo.

Be realistic about what you’re trying to accomplish and what it will take to get the job done. Don’t buy just barely enough in terms of size and strength — leave yourself some margin so your chain can do the job without any unnecessary drama.

Check out all the different chain products available on NAPAonline, or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA Auto Care locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on types of chains, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store.

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.