Hand Chain – Cutting and Installing
To cut the hand chain in order to increase or shorten:
1.Insert one link lengthwise into the vise (Figure 6). Be sure that the side opposite the weld lies completely below the surface of the vise jaw (about 1/3 of a link). This prevents nicking or cutting the lower part of the link.
2.Using a hack saw, cut through the upper part of the link at the weld.
3.Loosen the link, reposition the link vertically at the edge of the vise with the level of the cut above the vise jaw (Figure 7).
4.Tighten the vise jaw.
5.Using an adjustable wrench, twist the link horizontally from front to back. (Figure 8) Open just far enough to insert (or remove) a second chain link.
Note: Chain length is now ready to lengthen or shorten.
6.Insert or remove the second end link at the opening in the first end link.
7.Using an adjustable wrench, twist the link horizontally until the link is in the original closed position. See Figure 9.
Do not push the link inward from the curved ends. This will distort the link. Check that the link is closed and free of twist.
8.If installing entire new chain, insert the end of the hand chain into the groove at the top of the hand chain wheel (see Figure 10). Rotate the handwheel and pull the chain through.
9.
10.Grind off excess on the weld so that it is smooth.
Do not operate the hoist with a twisted, kinked or damaged load chain. Do not splice the load chain. Check the chain for excessive wear or stretch. Failure to comply may cause serious injury.
9
Figure 6
Figure 7
Figure 8
Figure 9
