Anchor chain

[BigLes]

I want to increase the scope of my anchor chain - is it feasable to join a new piece to the existing chain, or better to scrap the existing and just replae with one new longer piece? If joining the new to the old, what's the best way of doing it? 32ft, 4 1/2 ton Benny.

 

[Sea Devil]

There are overlapping chain connectors you can buy for each size of chain - almost circular - you hook each end over the two ends of chain - put the other side on and hammer the rivets closed - inexpensive.

 

[machurley22]

What length and size is your current chain? How much do you want to add and why, and do you use a windlass?

Dave

 

[boatmike]

Absolutely! Most chandlers stock them and they form a link which will pass through your windlass OK. If you can use a hammer you can fit one easily....

 

[mainmarine]

The jointing fittings are called c links, available in stainless and galvanised. You need to make sure that you new chain is the same spec as the existing if using a windlass.
Malc
Mainmariine

 

[Gunfleet]

la maillon faible

Better make sure they're rated the same as the welded links, though, otherwise you'll be in an Ann Robinson situation. You are the weakest like, goodbye!

 

[MedMan]

I have never trusted C links. The ones I have tried in the past all rusted after one season due to cheap galvanising. I strongly recommend you get a good welder to weld up a new link for you with a TIGG welder. Cut a link off the new section of chain by cutting both sides of the existing weld and removing it. Use this to link the two sections together and get your welder to completely fill the space with new metal. It's a fag getting the chain up to the welder's shop, but it's only a 5 minute job when you get there. Paint over the weld with Galvafroid and you end up with a perfect job.

 

[Sea Devil]

Re: C-links rusting

Strange how we all have different experiences - I first used galvanized C links in Greece to extend my 8mm chain and 5 years later after being in use almost daily anchoring were still in good condition when I changed to 10mm in New Zealand.

 

[charles_reed]

Stainless C-links

are OK.

I use a climbing joiner, has a threaded collar, which allows me to slip anchor and part of the chain - it's come in useful twice already.

This won't pass through the windlass, being an entirely different section.

 

[hylass]

PLEASE, NEVER USE C-LINKS

Unless you have a written comitment of the manufacturer that the resistance of the C-link is as strong as the chain..

NONE ARE....

30 meters of chain is far enough for your anchor rode, and then a Nylon rope directly spliced on the chain (see: http://www.bluemoment.com/warpchainsplice.htm)

Nylon is IMPORTANT to absorb shocks.. don't trust the catenary of the chain alone..
For more info, see: http://alain.fraysse.free.fr