Splicing anchor chain

[Lyle]

Has anyone had experience with splicing 2 lengths of chain together using a connecting link? I would like to add more 5/16 chain to my anchor rode and it is obvious that at $3.00/ft. it would be cheaper to splice another piece onto my existing rode. However I would like to have confidence that the connecting link would be as strong as the original chain. I also use a windlass so am concerned that the connecting link may jam up the windlass when it passes through the gypsy.

 

[Steve Dion]

it is only as strong as the WEAKLESS link.

[nm]

 

[windward54]

Link

I've done it twice, on different boats. The first one I used a link that used two bolts to fit together. That one jammed when when going through the windlass. The second one as a link that was peened closed with a hammer. That one goes through the windlass with no problem. It is not supposed to be as strong as the whole chain, but I've never had a problem with it. The link is rated higher than the boat should need. I just check it every now and then.

 

[Stu Jackson]

Do your homework and simply check the strength

of the links. Swivels and bolted connectors don't usually meet the strength of matching chain size.

We just did what you're suggesting, adding 10 ft to a 20 ft length of 1/4 inch chain with th peened connecting link.

Peening is a pain, but worth it. As suggested, check it regularly. If you do a good peening job, and don't have issues with a windlass, then the strength match will work.

 

[Capn Ellis]

You mean WEAKEST? (NM)

NM

 

[BobM]

another man's opinion

I'd use the split link others have discussed then have it welded. My friend is a welder and he concurred that having it TIG or MIG or even silver brazed would work. However, you should avoid torch welding as it will impregnate the weld with oxygen, which will corrode rapidly.

Then I'd cold galvanize the link if it was galvinized steel and keep an eye on it (I am not sure how effective cold galvanizing is yet). If it was stainless chain I'd passivate it in acid.

 

[Stu Jackson]

Thanks for the info on the rusting connecting link

I'll check ours very carefully now.