Safety chain "S" hook issue?

[Beekeeper]

The safety chain "S" hooks on the chains on our 2013 Hideout aren't "open" enough to go thru the chain slots on the factory receiver hitch on our 2013 F-150. The were very snug on the Curt hitch on our '09 F-150, but I was able to get them to go on.

The S hooks on the trailer safety chain are very stout, and I want to avoid heating them to open them enough to fit. Any ideas or suggestions would be appreciated!

[Cgjt]

I have gone to a hardware store or a tractor supply store and bought chain links that are screwed together. Open the threads of the link and insert one onto each hole of your hitch, thread them closed then attach your s hooks to them. Leave the threaded links on your hitch and unhook your s hooks as usual. Hope this helps.

[Paramenace]

Remove them and replace them with hooks that fit.


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[JRTJH]

If you do use chain links or replace with thinner diameter hooks, make sure that they are rated for the load. There are a number of "stout looking" hooks and chain links at TSC and local hardware stores that look like they would be a good choice, but when you check the load capability, you'll find they are often rated at less than 1000 pounds, some even as low as 400 pounds. Nothing worse than having a trailer "disconnect" and hearing the pop of two under-rated hooks as they snap and you watch your RV drift away in the rear view mirror.....

[Bob Landry]

Originally Posted by Paramenace

Remove them and replace them with hooks that fit.


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That appears to be a logical solution to me.

[Beekeeper]

Thanks for the suggestions. After rethinking the situation, I was able to lightly heat the factory S hooks and use a steel wedge to swedge them open enough to fit thru the stamped safety chain hole in the truck hitch. I only had to open them up about 1/4", so I didn't compromise the integrity of the hooks in doing so. All that's left is a road test with our new F-150 and we are de-winterized, tested and ready for next weekend!

Thanks again, and safe travels for those that are heading out for Memorial Day!

[Ken / Claudia]

I thought I had the same problem. The hitch I have has the slots for the hooks at a 45 angle to the roadway and without looking I tried to install them at a 90 angle. Than benting over further and looking until I realized the problem and the factory ones work.

[GaryWT]

I added some screw close rings from Home Depot like others suggested. The work good.