How to Attach a Chain to an Anchor

A shackle holds a chain to a heavy anchor.

Attaching a small length of chain between an anchor and a rope allows the anchor to grab an anchoring point quickly and reduces the chances of losing your anchor to cuts. The connection between the anchor and chain requires a strong connector capable of enduring the weight of your boat. A proper connector will have more strength than the chain and resist corrosion.

Things You'll Need

• Galvanized shackle
• Self-locking pliers

Instructions

1. Turn the flattened side of the shackle pin counterclockwise until it pulls from the base of a galvanized shackle one size larger than the diameter of the chain wire you are attaching to an anchor.

2. Align one side of the open shackle with the end link of the chain. Push the shackle through the chain link and turn it so the opening faces away from the chain.

3. Apply thread-locking sealant to the threads of the shackle pin. Center the hoop located on the top of the anchor in between the legs of the shackle. Slide the shackle pin through the shackle leg with a non-threaded opening.

4. Turn the shackle pin clockwise to thread it into the threaded leg of the shackle. Lock a pair of self-locking pliers onto the flattened side of the shackle pin. Push the handles of the pliers clockwise to lock the shackle in position. Release the pliers from the shackle pin.

5. Pick up the anchor by the attached chain. Replace the shackle with smaller shackle if the chain does not swivel freely on the anchor.

References

• Blue Moment: Anchor Rodes
• Tropical Boating: Choosing an Anchor