What is the Recommended Chain Size for Clearing Down Trees off Trails

[wardj69]

Howdy,

I am planning to travel solo and have seen trail clean-up where several folks uses manpower and chainsaws to remove trees from the trail. I would like to use my 16.5k winch to do most of the manual moving but not with my synthetic winch rope but wrapping a chain around the tree then pulling the chain.

I was looking at either 1/2" x 16' Grade 70 Transport Chain or 1/2" x 16' Grade 80 Transport Chain. My gut tells me 3/8 and 5/16 size chains may be susceptible to breakage. I am not talking about pulling the tree down, my chainsaw can accomplish that task but once the tree is across the road, just use the winch to remove it off the trail so I may pass.

I also like the 3/8" Pewag Security Chain (move square links) as they are security chains and appear stronger.

I am just looking for guidance / recommendation. I like the 3/8" Pewag Security Chain or perhaps 1/2" x 16' Grade 100 Transport Chain. I’ll take proper rigging safety measures with rope dampers as well. I would rather drag chain than tow rope or line on the ground

Thoughts?

Thanks

 

[North American Sojourner]

My winch is protected by a 100amp fuse. Take a fuse in your emergency bag. I blew one. Nature is strong and so is a tree. LMAO.
I have a Milwaukee 18v chainsaw that does really well also. If it's bigger than 24" dia. better plan a "reroute" Ahahahahha
Zim

 

[ThundahBeagle]

My winch is protected by a 100amp fuse. Take a fuse in your emergency bag. I blew one. Nature is strong and so is a tree. LMAO.
I have a Milwaukee 18v chainsaw that does really well also. If it's bigger than 24" dia. better plan a "reroute" Ahahahahha
Zim

View attachment 292053

2 foot diameter, could still be done. Cut shorter rounds or wafers out of it and pull less weight at a time. Still time consuming though