A chain hook is a heavy-duty device used to attach a chain to an object, with different attachment methods such as split chain link, welded chain link, or clevis pin. There are two types of hooks: open hanger and closed hook. Safety hooks have a spring-loaded metal tab attached to them, while some small chains use a spring clip in the hook. When attaching a chain hook to a chain without a hook, it’s best to use a spade. Clevis is the strongest form of chain building outside of splitting and re-soldering a link.
A chain hook is a device placed on the end of a chain that allows the chain to be hooked to an object. Made from heavy duty forged steel, the chain hook can be attached to a chain in one of several methods. The chain hook can be attached using a split chain link, welded chain link or clevis pin. The clevis pin is a preferred method of attaching a chain hook as it can be removed and swapped for another hook if the need arises.
There are two basic styles of chain hook found on most chains. The first is an open hanger, which has a large gap in the hanger. The open hook style allows it to be used to pull or lift an object similar to the hook found on a crane. With an open hook, ropes, spades and other chains can be placed inside the hook and lifted or pulled. The second type of hook is the closed hook. This type of hook is narrow and is generally used to lock a hook to another chain link.
Some open style hooks are actually safety hooks. A safety chain hook has a spring loaded metal tab attached to it. The brim is fitted to the shank of the hook and bridges the gap to the point of the hook. When a chain or similar item is placed on the hook, the flap folds down, allowing the item to pass through and rest in the belly of the chain hook. The tab then snaps shut, thus preventing the item from sliding off the hook without first pressing the tab down and out of the way.
Some small chains such as a dog chain use a spring clip in the hook that must be depressed to remove the chain. This is a smaller version of the safety hook. A safety chain hook is commonly found on construction sites or other locations where the safety of crew and bystanders is an issue. Some aftermarket manufacturers sell conversion kits that turn regular hooks into safety hooks.
When attaching a chain hook to a chain that doesn’t have a hook, it’s best to use a spade. The clevis uses a bolt that slides through the end link of a chain and threads into the fitting on the bottom of the hanger. This method creates the strongest form of chain building outside of splitting and re-soldering a link.
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