Cargo Control

Clevis Hook Guide

Look at the end of a tie down chain and you will often see a hook held on by a small pin. That is a clevis hook. It is one of the most useful parts in a hauler's kit, because it lets you add a hook to a chain or replace a worn one without welding.

In This Guide

• What Is a Clevis Hook?
• Main Types
• Why Use a Clevis Style Hook?
• How to Size a Clevis Hook
• How to Install a Clevis Hook
• How to Use a Grab Hook on a Load
• Safety Tips
• How to Inspect Them
• Frequently Asked Questions

Once the pin is in, the hook and chain are joined. You can take it apart later if you need to change the hook.

Clevis Grab Hook

A grab hook has a narrow throat. It is just wide enough to slide over one link of chain, but not wide enough to let the chain slide through.

That lets you shorten a chain. Wrap the chain around a load, then drop the grab hook over any link. The chain stays at that length.

This is the most common hook on transport chains. The Safe & Tie G70 clevis grab hook comes in 5/16 inch, 3/8 inch, and 1/2 inch sizes.

Clevis Slip Hook

A slip hook has a wide, open throat. The chain can slide freely through it. It is used to make a choker, where the chain tightens around a load as it is pulled.

Most slip hooks have a small spring latch across the opening to stop the hook from coming off.

Clevis Sling Hook

A sling hook is made for lifting with a sling. It is usually rated for lifting and often has a latch. It should match the grade of the lifting chain.

• Easy to install. No welding or special tools.
• Easy to replace. If a hook gets bent, swap it out and keep the chain.
• Makes custom chains. Buy chain by the foot and add the hooks you need.
• Strong. A good clevis hook matches the rating of the chain it is made for.

Chain size. The hook is marked for one chain size, like 3/8 inch. Use a hook that matches your chain. A hook that is too big will not grab the link. A hook that is too small will not fit.

Chain grade. Match the grade too. Put a Grade 70 hook on Grade 70 chain, and a Grade 80 hook on Grade 80 chain.

The working load limit of the hook should be equal to or higher than the chain. If it is lower, the whole tie down is only as strong as the hook. Our guide to the chains and binders collection lists ratings for each size.

1. Pick the right hook. Match the size and grade to your chain.
2. Remove the pin. Pull out the cotter pin, then slide out the main clevis pin.
3. Set the chain link. Place the end link of the chain inside the clevis.
4. Put the pin back. Slide the main pin through the clevis and the link.
5. Lock it. Put the cotter pin back in and bend the legs so it cannot fall out.
6. Check it. The hook should turn freely, and the pin should not move.

1. Wrap the chain around or through the tie down point.
2. Pull out as much slack as you can by hand.
3. Drop the grab hook over a link so the chain stays at that length.
4. Make sure the link sits all the way down in the throat of the hook.
5. Use a binder to pull the chain tight.

Never let the link sit on the tip of the hook. That is called tip loading, and it can bend or break the hook.

• Use hooks with the grade stamped on them. Inspectors look for it.
• Never use a hook that is bent, cracked, or opened wider than normal.
• Do not use a homemade pin or bolt in place of the real clevis pin.
• Replace the cotter pin if it gets lost.
• Do not weld or heat a hook to fix it. Heat ruins the strength.
• Keep the load in the bowl of the hook, not on the tip.

• Look for cracks, nicks, and wear.
• Check that the throat has not opened up.
• Make sure the pin is straight and the cotter pin is in place.
• Look for a twist in the hook body.
• Take any damaged hook out of service and replace it.

Keep Your Chains Strong

Shop G70 grab hooks, transport chains, and binders at Safe & Tie.

What is the difference between a grab hook and a slip hook?

A grab hook holds one link so the chain cannot slide. A slip hook lets the chain slide through.

Can I put a clevis hook on any chain?

Only on chain of the same size and grade the hook is made for.

Can I reuse the clevis pin?

The main pin can often be reused if it is straight and not worn. Replace the small cotter pin if it is bent or damaged.

Can I use a Grade 70 hook for lifting?

No. Grade 70 hooks are for tie downs. Lifting needs alloy hooks rated for lifting, such as Grade 80 or higher.

How do I know the hook's rating?

Look for the grade and size stamped on the hook, and check the maker's rating chart.