Safety Chains, Hammerlocks and Dee Shackles

Trailers under 3.5t require rated safety chains and dee shackles.

Dee shackles must be stamped with loading to prove compatibility with the safety chain. An Unstamped chain is unacceptable unless the trailer is older than 2009 and is not being re-registered for highway use.

Trailers, caravans and like vehicles used on a public road must comply with Safety Chain regulations.

Many trailer parts suppliers prefer to carry rated dee shackles rather than sell the older galvanised dee shackle.

Stamped Galvanised Chain

Every four links of the chain up to 3.5t, must is stamped.

Older trailers, pre-2009 need not comply with this requirement.

Chain not stamped

There is no requirement to stamp the Herc Alloy chain. Only chains under 3.5t must be stamped for road use.

Verticle Chain

The chain must not be welded vertically to the trailer chassis in a manner in which the chain will hit the ground when dropped. Read this article for a better understanding.

Joining Multiple Dee Shackles

Dee shackles are not permitted to be joined together to lengthen the chain nor multiple Dee Shackle allowed per chain. However, it is permissible to cut the first link near the weld and join the two loops with a hammerlock.

Herc Alloy Chain

Trailers over 3.5t use high tensile pins to hold Herc Alloy safety chain.
Fit safety chain holders to the drawbar and tow bar via an approved safety chain holder.

The use of a Dee Shackle as a safety chain connection method for trailers over 3.5t is not permitted.

Hammerlocks many be used to join the Herc Alloy chain to safety chain holders provided the safety chain holder contains a high tensile pin.

Finally, call our expert staff if you need help to understand the safety chain solutions above.

In conclusion, Couplemate Trailer Parts sells only the best quality pintle hooks and towing equipment throughout Australia. Express shipping to Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Darwin, and Hobart. Further, we also ship products to New Zealand via Australia Post Air Express.