Hey has anyone changed out the cables on their lock ons to chains and if so what size chains did you use. I have saw several pictures in the past but never seen an size just the grade of bolts grade of 8.
Thanks for information.

My API Grand Slam has 2040 ag roller chain available at farm stores. I use a standard 5/16 lock pin to hold it to the stand. Grade 8 is a bit over kill for a tree stand bolt. h.h.

Yes grade 8 is way over kill.
Unless you are way over weight 1/4" should do it has a working load of 2600lb.

I just did 4 stands last week. Cable to chain and replaced bolts too. About 15 bucks a stand. I took stand in with me to hardware store. I had cable removed from one side to make it easier to get correct length in bolts and chain.

Changing a couple to chain as well.

Anybody feel the need to paint the shiny galvanized chain, or would it be ok to leave as is?

Animal, I was able to put shrink tubing over the chain, turned out pretty well


Here is the list of components I used
3/16 Grade 30 chain
8 Grade 5 bolts
1" 3:1 heat shrink tubing
Here is what I started with




finished product

Looks good!

Good idea for the shrink wrap...should have thought of that!

OK Navy....good idea for the shrink wrap, now tell me your secret of where you found it

Went to 5-6 stores today and could not find big enough diameter in a roll(I think 3/4" will work). They only had short pieces.

Might have to try electrical supply house next.

I will send you the link, it was off of ebay,

http://www.ebay.com/itm/261187738942?_trksid=p2059210.m2749.l2649&var=560270266832&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

Looks good!

Good idea for the shrink wrap...should have thought of that!

Gonna have to try this.