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When two safety chains are used, must the ultimate combined breaking strength of each chain be equal to the gross weight of the towed vehicle(s) or would the requirements be met if the combined breaking strength of the two chains is equal to the gross wei

FMCSA-VEH-393.70-Q02.cm_.docx (22.73 KB)

Section § 393.70: Coupling devices and towing methods, except for driveaway-towaway operations.

Guidance Q&A

Question 2: When two safety chains are used, must the ultimate combined breaking strength of each chain be equal to the gross weight of the towed vehicle(s) or would the requirements be met if the combined breaking strength of the two chains is equal to the gross weight of the towed vehicle(s)?

Guidance: If the ultimate combined breaking strength of the two chains is equal to the gross weight of the towed vehicle(s), the requirements of § 393.70(d) are satisfied. It should be noted that some States may have more stringent requirements for safety chains.

Regulatory Topic: Required strength of safety chains
Effective Date: Sunday, May 4, 1997
Issued Date: Friday, April 4, 1997