Safety chains on Reese Extension

[CyberVet65]

Well, I went and did it. I got the Reese Tow Beast and the 48" extension. I noticed on the extension it states to add a set of chains from the hitch assembly to the extension.
The question:

Are the chains that you have installed tight? As in providing a support to eliminate side-to-side movement. Or:
Are the chains slack like regular safety chains?

Thanks
Chet

[CyberVet65]

Well, I went and did it. I got the Reese Tow Beast and the 48" extension. I noticed on the extension it states to add a set of chains from the hitch assembly to the extension.
The question:

Are the chains that you have installed tight? As in providing a support to eliminate side-to-side movement. Or:
Are the chains slack like regular safety chains?

Thanks
Chet

[TJ Camper]

I called Reese and asked them that exact same question. I too have the 48" extension.

You and I both misunderstood their info on the extension tube. They aren't saying to extend additional chains to your pick-up for ADDED stability, they are talking about YOU being able to use their metal loops on the extension tube for YOUR chains. I asked them about the need for extra support from the metal loops TO the pick-up, they told me that that is un-neccessary.

After towing my 3500lb boat & trailer several hundred miles already this summer, I agree...you really don't need extra support.

Tom

[CyberVet65]

Wow! Thanks for the information. That certainly clears up that.
Thanks for taking the time to reply.
Chet

[Fxrscotty]

I have used this set up for years and found that a coiled cable worked better than the chains. I have set up both boat and cycle trailers with a single 3/8 vinel coated cable that a way higher breaking point than the chains and is easier to use. I hook the chains to the hitch and the cable to my truck. Never had any trouble but felt safer with this set up. Scotty.

[roadranger]

What Reese is basically saying is that in addition to the trailer SAFETY chains attaching to the extension ball mount, you need an additional set of SAFETY chains to attach the extension to the truck receiver, for safety continuity.
These SAFETY chains would be installed loosely.

I've gone one step further, and welded a tab on each end of the receiver, then run a tightened chain/turnbuckle setup from end of extension to receiver. This helps keep in check the side to side forces, and functions as a safety chain.