May 21, 2024
What shackle is right for my trailer?
Snap-D Shackle Guide for D and Bow shackles Combined.
- Single axle trailer = 10mm shackle.
- Tandem axle trailer = 2x safety chains with 12mm or 13mm shackles.
- Caravan = 2x safety chains with 12mm or 13mm shackles.
- Horse float = 2x safety chains with 12mm or 13mm shackles.
- Extra Large 9m Fishing Boat = 2x safety chains & one safety chain to the boat with 17mm or 19mm shackles.
- Large 6-8m Fishing Boat = 2x safety chains & one safety chain to the boat with 12mm or 13mm shackles.
- Medium size 4-5.5m Fishing boat = 12mm or 13mm shackle for the trailer & a 10mm shackle to the boat.
- Small 2-3m Dinghy = 10mm shackle for the trailer & a 8mm or 10mm shackle to the dinghy.
- Jet Ski = 10mm shackle for the trailer & a Long 10mm D shackle for the jet-ski.
Please contact us if you need more information.
Alternatively check the back of our packaging for sizing and fitment information.
Australian Law; CIRCULAR 0-1-3
SAFETY CHAIN CONNECTION DEVICES FOR ROAD TRAILERS WHICH ARE UP TO 3.5 tonnes (3,500kg)
AGGREGATE TRAILER MASS (ATM)
Australian Standards, regarding shackles as safety chain connection devices
Bow-Shackles and D-Shackles that comply with Australian Standard (AS) 2741 are rated for lifting applications and have a breaking load marked on the shackle that is higher than the Working Load Limit (WLL). Since the loading on these shackles is different when used to attach a safety chain to a road vehicle as compared to when used in lifting applications, a road trailer may be towed that is heavier than the shackle’s WLL.
The relationship between WLL and towing capacity, an ATM shackle rating is based on trailer ATM (Aggregate towing mass or Maximum towing mass) of your trailer, the shackle should have a 1.5x greater rating than your gross load.
Example: A gross combined load of 1670kg needs a 1.5x greater shackle with a 2500kg ATM/MTM rating or higher rating.
It is necessary to use a shackle that is compatible with the safety chain and is of a reputable brand. In this case, the shackle will have appropriate markings to show the brand and or part identification sufficient to trace its brand and strength back the original manufacturer.
The ATM or MTM rating is: New Zealand NZS5467 or Australian AS4177 standard.