Vehicle Recovery Techniques Chains and Cables

Many people rely on chains or steel cables for recovery but these can be cumbersome and dangerous. There is no give in chain, and little in cable. This means that every shock and jerk is transmitted to the towing or recovery points, which transfers a very high shock load that can cause damage. Many 4x4'ers will not hook up a chain or cable to tow you out.

That being said, there are circumstances in which the use of chains or cables can be advantageous. This is generally in any recovery procedure that doesn't involve towing of some kind. Procedures in which chain or cable can be effecively used include winching using a winch or hi-lift jack.

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