Rapid link as anchor to chain connector?

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bluedragon

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Any reason why I should NOT use one of these (of an appropriate size and SWL) as a means of connecting the anchor to the chain? Made of 316 S/S from Baseline Marine. I know about the possible chain rusting issues , but I'm asking about the safety of the setup.

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Reason: Using a standard shackle, the pin ear catches between the cheeks of the stemhead / bow roller fitting. This one is less likely to do that.
 
I would guess that:

1. Unless you have an enlarged link at the end of your chain, the largest of these you will be able to pass through the chain will not be as strong as the chain.

2. If it gets distorted it will probably be harder to undo than a shackle and you'll end up sawing it off.
 
I have used these on my access gate, I have chain access gates and I find the diameter of the thread and the inside dimension of the chain link prevents the use of a suitable size link to the required SWL. If you have a problem with the end of the pin os a shackle you can get shackles with a counter sunk head bolt which makes the pin head within the width of the shackle
 
[ QUOTE ]
If you have a problem with the end of the pin os a shackle you can get shackles with a counter sunk head bolt which makes the pin head within the width of the shackle

[/ QUOTE ]

Yes, I thought about that as an alternative. But as the pin can't be secured with wire, I wondered about it being unscrewed by the chain link? There a good chance an 8mm rapid link would pass through the end link in an 8mm chain (approx. 9.5mm hole). What do you think? These have a SWL of 1100kg and breaking load of 5500kg. Stronger than the certified galvanised shackle I'm using right now according to the data.
 
Do'nt see why not, cavers and climbers use them for fixed abseil stations. Saw one the other day at Swanage that had been there for over 10 years and was still good enough to ab off.
 
I have used one but eventually went back to a conventional shackle with a countersunk head.
Get one which is turned by an allen key rather than a screwdriver and you can do it up much tighter. I think the largest conventional shackle you can use will have a higher SWL than the largest "rapid link". It's a bit suspicious I think that the 10mm rapid link has a low SWL of 1100Kgs compared to a higher breaking load of 5500Kgs. I infer from this that the rapid link screw connector is the weak link and should not be trusted in ground tackle. A 10mm (or 9.5mm) D shackle with CSK allen key head has a breaking load of 3800Kgs but no SWL listed, but I suspect it's safer to use.
 
You may have a point there, yet Jimmy Green sell a similar item as a chain repair link (same size as chain). I can't use a 10mm D shackle with 8mm chain...pin is too large. A countersunk pin 8mm D shackle has a breaking load of 3000kgs (by which time the foredeck has probably lifted off /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif) but no SWL quoted. So, yes that is an option.
 
I answered a query on this subject in YM last year. In a straight pull the link is adequately strong, assuming that the threaded connecter remains tight. Thread lock will work well; I have tested it underwater this season and found no deterioration. However, there is a strong chance with anchors that have a stock made from plate material (Delta, Bugel, Fortress, Bruce) that the link will jam sideways, imposing a lateral force on the threaded part. It could not be expected to withstand a heavy load in this direction.
 
That's my preference, I use the Wichard one that did very well when we destructively tested a wide range. However, be aware that the countersunk pin will work itself loose and needs checking from time to time.
This year I have spent almost every night of five months at anchor, with the screwed connectors on the shackle and swivel held with Loctite. At the end of the season I unscrewed them all and found the Loctite to be as firm as when I connected them.
 
Shackle with countersunk head is the answer - I have it on my boat for the same reason - to ensure a smooth passage of the shank out and back when launching the anchor.

Are they fit for purpose? I bought mine in the fishing outfitters in Texel in Holland - the place that supplies gear for trawlers. I'm sure you could get one here in similar circumstances.

How to secure from working loose? I passed a plastic cable tie through the non threaded end of the shakle and tightened up on it. Just as a precaution. I do not think prof trawlers would use gear that failed them, do you?

PWG
 
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