Safe use of shackles

Shackles should be inspected before use to ensure that:
- the body of the shackle and pin are both identifiable as being of the same quality;
- all markings are readable;
- the pin is of the correct type;
- the threads of the pin and the body are undamaged;
- the body and the pin are not distorted or unduly worn;
- the body and pin are free from nicks, gouges and cracks.

Ensure that the pin is correctly screwed into the shackle eye, i.e. tighten finger tight, then lock using a small tommy bar or suitable tool so that the collar of the pin is fully seated on the shackle eye.
Ensure that the pin is of the correct length so that it penetrates the full depth of the screwed eye and allows the collar of the pin to bed on the surface of the shackle eye.

Incorrect seating of the pin may be due to a bent pin, too tight fitting thread or misalignment of pin holes.
Do not use the shackle under these circumstances, but refer the matter to a competent person.
Never replace a shackle pin with a bolt, other than one designed for the purpose, as it may not be suitable for the loads imposed.
It is important in the case of shackles fitted with a bolt, nut and split cotter pin that the length of the plain portion of the bolt is such that the nut will jam on the inner end of the thread or on the eyes of the shackle, and that the rivet on the bolt is cross drilled for a split cotter pin.
Never use a bolt type shackle in operation without using a split cotter pin.

TOOLEE GROUP INC.