Adding Chain

[Sailagain]

I am a new boat owner - the boat came with 40 feet of chain on the anchor tackle.

I want to add some more. Is it as easy as buying some and it with quick link chain connectors, or is that not advisable, and I should replace it with a single run that is the length I want?

[Cheechako]

Single run is best. If you dont have a spare anchor put the 40 or at least 25 on it. If you dont have a third, put the 40 or at least 25 on it. if you dont.....

[roverhi]

The 'C' link connectors from reputable sources are nearly the strength of the standard chain. Would probably be a weak link in G40. They might not be the same length as the original chain and mess up on the windless gypsy.

An intriqueing suggestion by someone else was to use the new high strength synthetic line to join the chain. You can make the distance between links to fit your windlass. You need to mouse the ends of the line as the these synthetics are way slippery. If you used small stuff and wrapped it around several times, you could probably sew or lash the ends together as they wouldn't be under much strain as the turns of the line are essentially block and tackle without the block and tackle. The synthetics are very chafe resistant and stronger than the chain itself. Would need to inspect regularly to be sure that it isn't deterorating for some reason.

[AnchorageGuy]

We connected our 3/8 BBB with two 100 foot lengths connected via a c-link and went sailing for ten years with it. Thousands of anchorages and 15 named storms and it held up just as well as the chain. Chuck

[Jamel]

Depends on what type of sailing you intend to do. Most cruising people like all chain rode + nylon snubber which provides the most ideal catenary situation, it also guards against chafe when anchoring in coral areas.

[Stu Jackson]

Keep it simple. Don't use a quick link. Buy the right material, get some extra length and sleep tight.

[bobsadler]

Joining links from reputable manufacturers (e.g Crosby) are fine and are load rated. If you are worried join two short lengths of chain with a joining link, take it to an industrial rigging shop and tensile test it to destruction.

[David M]

I would be hesitant to join it with Spectra or some other sort of line. Line does not have the same abrasion resistance as does chain.

[MarkJ]

I have a C link at 50 meters joining my second 50 meters.

In a big blow I use a short length of chain shackled either side of the C link. Just to be safe. It doesn't take weight but is there in case the C link breaks.

Of course the extra chain can't go through the windlass

[Jim Cate]

This subject has been beaten to death here on CF. Try searching old threads for discussion ad nauseum. The folks who actually know something about chain all say that using proper joining links is a safe practice. I agree, and have been so doing for 25 years of full time cruising. No problems as yet.

Cheers,

Jim

[River Cruiser]

I added 250' of 5/16 chain to the 50' I already had. Connected with a Crosby missing link the specs on the link matches the chain & goes thru the windlass without problem it is even galvanized.

[Matt Johnson]

I bought my missing link from here:

G-335 Connecting Links HG Crosby® - RiggingWarehouse.com

They were great!