Don’t Be Fooled – Locking Safety Chains Actually Helps Thieves

With the increased activity of trailer theft happening these days, it is important to take measures to protect your trailer from theft. There are a lot of different options to choose from.

Not All Coupler Locks are Created Equal

First, you can choose a cheap lock under $100.00, but these offer little more than false hope. In fact, most locks in this range break easily with a hammer or crowbar. However, true high security locks in the $200.00-$400.00 range deliver real protection. These locks resist attacks and keep your trailer where you left it.

Some lock manufacturers push the idea that locking the safety chains adds additional protection from theft. Let’s look into this idea in more detail.

Why This “Feature” Actually Backfires

When you place the hook end of the chain into the coupler lock, you secure the loose end and create a chain loop under the trailer tongue. Consequently, you create a secure attachment point very close to the hitch ball socket. A thief can then attach a short chain to that point and connect it directly to a tow vehicle. Moreover, that connection will not come loose.

Let’s face it, anyone planning on stealing a trailer by using chains will bring their own because the safety chains on a trailer are typically not long enough to adequately attach to the tow vehicle. So, by locking your safety chains, you actually give the thief a ready-made anchor point. In other words, you are doing their job for them.