RV FEATURE
SHACKLES
Despite what you may have read on the internet , shackles connecting the safety chains to the tow vehicle do not require a specific rating . This does indeed seem strange , especially considering almost every other component in a towing setup is required to be rated .
A few different shackle types are suitable , including bow shackles , D-shackles and pin shackles . A ‘ hook ’ style of shackle has become available in recent times . These are suitable , too , provided they are correctly stamped and compliant with the Standards .
The standard applying to shackles ( AS2741-2002 ) does not specify that rated shackles must be used for connecting safety chains to a tow vehicle . Instead , it covers the use of shackles for lifting purposes .
Industry , in conjunction with various state bodies , has instead developed the following guidelines when it comes to using shackles on safety chains :
• Shackles should meet the requirements of AS2741-2002 ;
• Shackle grade should be ’ S ’ or ‘ 6 ’;
• Working load limit should be at least 1000kg ; and
• Shackle diameter should be at least 10mm .
ATM AND GTM
Every caravan has a compliance plate marked with its Aggregate Trailer Mass – the maximum permissible weight of the caravan when it ’ s unhitched , with the ball weight being supported by the jockey wheel . The plate must also be marked with its Gross Trailer Mass – the maximum permissible weight of the trailer when hitched , i . e ., the weight being transferred to the ground through the tyres . The group axle capacity is also found on the compliance plate , and this too must never be exceeded .
ATM , GTM and group axle capacity are ratings . The other weights that you ’ ll find on the compliance plate are the Tare and the unladen ball weight . These are actual weights . It ’ s worth wrapping your mind around the difference – as the person towing the caravan , it is up to you to ensure these crucial ratings are never exceeded .
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