SUMMING UP As far as I’m concerned, the debate is settled. Set at the correct length, crossed safety chains will catch a caravan’s coupling if the worst happens.
I’M MISSING A CHAIN! Unfortunately, the situation isn’t entirely clear-cut. While crossing your safety chains will make a difference, it’s predicated on the assumption that there are two chains in play. After all, it’s legal for vans weighing less than 2500kg ATM to have just one. Trailers between 2500kg and 3500kg ATM must have two, and in all cases the chains must comply with AS4177-4. The only exception is in Western Australia, which requires two safety chains for vans under 2500kg ATM. Safety chains must be stamped with the manufacturer’s identification number, the numbers 4177 (which refers to the relevant Australian Standard), and the chain’s safe working load. This rating will often be identified by the following markings: • 4177-10 (up to 1000kg ATM); • 4177-16 (up to 1600kg ATM); • 4177-25 (up to 2500kg ATM); and • 4177-35 (up to 3500kg ATM).