Dutton-Lainson 22101 Dutton Lainson Safety Chains Model 6217 3/16in x 24″ Review

Let’s Talk About Dutton-Lainson 22101 Dutton Lainson Safety Chains Model 6217 3/16in x 24″

When you’re hauling a trailer, especially with precious cargo, safety isn’t just a suggestion – it’s paramount. The Dutton-Lainson 22101 Dutton Lainson Safety Chains Model 6217 3/16in x 24″ offer a robust solution for trailers up to 2,000 lbs, providing that crucial secondary connection between your tow vehicle and trailer. Dutton-Lainson has built a solid reputation in the trailer and towing industry, and these safety chains promise to uphold that standard.

I recently found myself needing a reliable set of safety chains for a small utility trailer I use to haul equipment to my hunting camp. The existing chains were rusted and frankly, looked like they might fail at the worst possible moment. I needed something I could trust on those bumpy backroads.

Upon unboxing the Dutton-Lainson safety chains, the first thing I noticed was their reassuring weight and solid construction. The zinc-plated finish looks durable and offers good rust resistance. The heavy steel hooks with their safety clips exude confidence, a far cry from the flimsy hooks on my old chains.

I considered a few other options, like chains from Curt and Reese, but ultimately chose the Dutton-Lainson for their reputation for quality and the added security of the safety clips on the hooks. The 3/16″ chain size felt like a good balance between strength and manageable weight. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping they’d live up to the hype and provide the peace of mind I was seeking.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Dutton-Lainson 22101 Dutton Lainson Safety Chains Model 6217 3/16in x 24″ to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Dutton-Lainson 22101 Dutton Lainson Safety Chains Model 6217 3/16in x 24″ on a trip to my hunting camp, which involves about 50 miles of highway driving followed by 20 miles of rough, unpaved forest service roads. The trailer was loaded with about 1,000 lbs of gear. Installation was straightforward; the 3/8″ bolt requirement made it easy to find suitable mounting points on my trailer frame.

The safety clips on the hooks gave me added assurance, especially on the bumpy sections of the dirt road. The chains stayed securely attached throughout the entire trip, even during some pretty aggressive potholes. No issues arose during the initial use, and the Dutton-Lainson safety chains performed flawlessly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including multiple trips to the hunting camp and hauling landscaping materials, the Dutton-Lainson 22101 Dutton Lainson Safety Chains Model 6217 3/16in x 24″ are holding up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the chains or hooks. The zinc plating is preventing rust from forming, despite exposure to rain, mud, and road salt.

Maintenance is minimal; I simply hose them off after each use to remove dirt and grime. These Dutton-Lainson chains outperform my previous set significantly. They offer much more peace of mind due to their robust construction and reliable performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Dutton-Lainson 22101 Dutton Lainson Safety Chains Model 6217 3/16in x 24″

Specifications

• Heavy-duty Class 1 welded link chains: These chains are designed for trailers up to 2,000 lbs, ensuring they can handle most small to medium-sized utility trailers. This rating provides a safety margin, reducing the risk of failure under normal towing conditions.
• 3/16″ chain size: The 3/16″ chain size strikes a balance between strength and weight, making them robust enough for their intended purpose without being overly cumbersome. This size is appropriate for the Class 1 rating and offers good resistance to breakage.
• Zinc-plated finish: The zinc plating provides corrosion resistance, extending the life of the chains and preventing rust. This finish is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the chains, especially in areas with harsh weather conditions.
• Heavy steel hook and safety clip: The robust steel hooks, combined with the added safety clips, ensure a secure connection to the tow vehicle. These clips prevent accidental disconnections, adding an extra layer of safety during towing.
• Mounts with 3/8″ bolts: The chains mount with 3/8″ bolts, making them compatible with most standard trailer frames. This size is readily available and offers a secure attachment point.
• Two 24″ chains per package: The package includes two 24″ chains, providing the necessary redundancy for safe towing. Using two chains ensures that if one were to fail, the other would still maintain a connection between the trailer and tow vehicle.
• Meets SAE and V-5 standards: Meeting these standards ensures that the chains have been tested and certified for safety and performance. Compliance with these standards provides confidence in the product’s quality and reliability.

Performance & Functionality

The Dutton-Lainson 22101 Dutton Lainson Safety Chains Model 6217 3/16in x 24″ perform their job exceptionally well, providing a secure and reliable connection between the trailer and tow vehicle. The added safety clips are a standout feature, preventing accidental disconnections, especially on rough roads. These chains meet and exceed my expectations for a Class 1 safety chain.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with sturdy materials and a durable zinc-plated finish. The chains are manageable in weight and easy to handle. There’s no learning curve; they’re simple to install and use.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Dutton-Lainson 22101 Dutton Lainson Safety Chains Model 6217 3/16in x 24″ should last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and inspection are all that’s needed to keep them in good working order. No repairs should be necessary under normal use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Dutton-Lainson 22101 Dutton Lainson Safety Chains Model 6217 3/16in x 24″ do not come with any additional accessories beyond the chains and hooks themselves. No customization options are available or necessary for their intended purpose. However, they are compatible with standard trailer hitch receivers and mounting hardware.

Pros and Cons of Dutton-Lainson 22101 Dutton Lainson Safety Chains Model 6217 3/16in x 24″