Chains for anti-theft

[Too tall]

I've been reading here some good thoughts and methods to "slow down" thieves who would try to hitch a trailer and drive off.


Would it make sense to buy a 6' length of Pewag chain 1/2" and say an ABUS 37RK/80 than thread that thru the outside spokes of my (two axle) trailers wheels and call it good?


Both the chain and lock are about as good as it gets, both store away compact and I can do this without crawling in the mud.

[Martee]

Yes indeed. I noticed you utilized the word "slow down" and that's about all you really can do for theft protection. And it will probably make a quick thief move on.

During my first trip with my Airstream, I had chained the wheels of my Airstream at a KOA where I was staying 5 days, and had peace of mind for only exactly one half day. Because later that day, A neighbor in a motorhome walked over and smiled at my chains, and said a brand new 32' Jayco was stolen after the wheel chains where cut by acetylene torch; and the coupler lock knocked off with a sledge. I think determined thief's can steal just about any trailer they want.

It's the quick thief your really preventing or slowing down. I no longer chain my wheels, but i do use the Precision Coupler lock which is custom made for Airstream, and also remove the tow safety chains so they must bring their own chains to steal my Airsteam.

[AirMiles]

I think a big mean-looking dog on the end of that chain would be an even better deterrent!

[Too tall]

Thanks. I hear what everone advises. This puts me firmly in the reasonable precautions camp....and good insurance.
Is this the coupler lock I need? >> Model 2516-AS

Originally Posted by Martee

Yes indeed. I noticed you utilized the word "slow down" and that's about all you really can do for theft protection. And it will probably make a quick thief move on.

During my first trip with my Airstream, I had chained the wheels of my Airstream at a KOA where I was staying 5 days, and had peace of mind for only exactly one half day. Because later that day, A neighbor in a motorhome walked over and smiled at my chains, and said a brand new 32' Jayco was stolen after the wheel chains where cut by acetylene torch; and the coupler lock knocked off with a sledge. I think determined thief's can steal just about any trailer they want.

It's the quick thief your really preventing or slowing down. I no longer chain my wheels, but i do use the Precision Coupler lock which is custom made for Airstream, and also remove the tow safety chains so they must bring their own chains to steal my Airsteam.

[Martee]

Yes, that's the correct model number, and made only for Airstreams. This coupler lock prevents hitch ball access to the coupler and the closing handle. Also, the mechanical design prevents a sledge from directly hitting the recessed lock mechanism.

[Too tall]

Originally Posted by Martee

Yes, that's the correct model number, and made only for Airstreams. This coupler lock prevents hitch ball access to the coupler and the closing handle. Also, the mechanical design prevents a sledge from directly hitting the recessed lock mechanism.

Attachment 323950

Add me to the list. I've got one inbound. Seems like a very well thought out way to slow down a thief. Once I get it I'll post some pics showing how to secure the safety chains...the videos are not that helpful.

[uncle_bob]

Originally Posted by Martee

Yes, that's the correct model number, and made only for Airstreams. This coupler lock prevents hitch ball access to the coupler and the closing handle. Also, the mechanical design prevents a sledge from directly hitting the recessed lock mechanism.

Attachment 323950

Hi

..... does nothing to stop them towing on the chains and working on the gizmo a half mile down the road....

The thief is most likely after what's in the trailer. That's what he / she can sell quickly and turn into a fresh supply of drugs (yes, that's what motivates most of these people). Simply getting it to someplace where they can strip it out is the objective. Putting fancy locks on a trailer kind of says "steal me, I'm full of expensive stuff ..."

There are no perfect solutions.

Bob

[SilverWind]

The Brahma Trailer Wheel Lock.....a real "slow down".

https://www.ebay.com/itm/302134062874

[r carl]

Put this sign on your door when you leave.

[kscherzi]

If the thief mostly wants what's in the trailer then why dont they just pop the trailer door open with a crowbar?

[Too tall]

Originally Posted by kscherzi

If the thief mostly wants what's in the trailer then why dont they just pop the trailer door open with a crowbar?

I just threw up a little. Please stop.

[Martee]

Originally Posted by uncle_bob

Hi

..... does nothing to stop them towing on the chains and working on the gizmo a half mile down the road....

The thief is most likely after what's in the trailer. That's what he / she can sell quickly and turn into a fresh supply of drugs (yes, that's what motivates most of these people). Simply getting it to someplace where they can strip it out is the objective. Putting fancy locks on a trailer kind of says "steal me, I'm full of expensive stuff ..."

There are no perfect solutions.

Bob

Well I certainly don't think any thief looks at a trailer lock as an invitation to steal. The majority of Airstream owners are very aware that determined thieves will defeat most obstacles in their way and steal your trailer. But doing nothing at all, is not the way to protect your property.

[GMFL]

I building a lock housing out of AR500 steel. Bulb using Abrasive Resist steel and very tight tolerances I am building a better mouse trap. I’ve got to order a piece of 3”ID AR500 pipe for the puck lock guard and cut a few more parts and it will be ready to weld up. I think I’m going to have the whole thing hot dipped galvanized vs powder coating. Also going to use a Mul T Lock MP5+ puck lock.
Be aware that the Proven Industries puck lock is made out of aluminum not a steel body.
Also going to set up safety chains so that they can be removed and stored as discussed in the 23D thread.

[Joannadannna]

Just got my Proven Industry Precision Lock. They have the option for a SS puck, add another $75 to the price. This should make it even harder to melt down than the Aluminum. Problem is that I can’t store the chain inside, like they can do with the non AS version. It’s not deep enough.

[GMFL]

Originally Posted by Joannadannna

Just got my Proven Industry Precision Lock. They have the option for a SS puck, add another $75 to the price. This should make it even harder to melt down than the Aluminum. Problem is that I can’t store the chain inside, like they can do with the non AS version. It’s not deep enough.

Scott on the 23D thread came up with a great solution to the safety chain problem, add a second hook to the other end and remove them while parked.
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f142/the-23d-thread-166085-173.html#post2161679

[Joannadannna]

Thanks GMFL - I assumed that it would house the chain ends too. I suppose since it’s specific to the AS that they needed to make it shallower than the other model. I’ll replace the ends with hooks as mentioned. Thank you. [emoji4]

[Martee]

I use these bow shackles to attach and/or remove my tow chains on the Airstream when parked at a site. The 1/2" D Ring bow Shackle is nearly unbreakable, and has 12 Tons (26,455 lbs) breaking strength.
The last chain link on the trailer is cut, and replaced with the removable shackle. Takes just two minutes to unbolt the shackle and remove both tow safety chains. The shackle is actually 2 times stronger than the chain link it replaces.

[GMFL]

Here’s mine with the two hooks fast and easy.

[waninae39]

this what we use

[Martee]

I guess the best thing you can do, to protect your Airstream trailer against theft, is to apply multiple types of protection. Hopefully not all at the same time. [emoji4][emoji4]

1. Coupler handle lock
2. Coupler ball lock
3. Remove tow chains
4. Chain and padlock wheels
5. Wheel clamp system
6. GPS Tracker
7. Mean Dog !!

Can anything be added to the list?