A two-leg sling lifting a load with an off-centre lifting point needs one leg shorter than the other, or the load tilts. Shortening fittings let the rigger take up chain on the leg that needs it, in seconds. They work by catching a link of the chain in a slot sized to it — and how well that slot supports the link decides whether the chain keeps its full rating. For the sling codes that name shorteners, see chain sling codes explained.
/01The shortening fittings.
| Fitting | How it holds the chain | Rating when shortening |
|---|---|---|
| Shortening clutchHighlighted | A forged slot that holds one link flat, fitted in the leg or on the master link | Full chain WLL in our range |
| Cradle or shortening grab hook | A throat shaped to support the link it holds | Full chain WLL in our range |
| Conventional grab hook | A narrow throat that catches a link on edge | Maker-dependent — one maker requires a 20% reduction |
| Knot, bolt, wrap | Not a fitting | Never |
/02What our tables show.
Our Grade 80 clevis shortening clutch is rated 1.12 t at 6 mm, 3.15 t at 10 mm and 8 t at 16 mm — the chain’s own rating at each size — and the Grade 80 shortening grab hook matches it. The Grade 100 clevis shortening clutch is rated 1.4 t at 6 mm and 4 t at 10 mm. Match the shortener to the chain grade and size, as for every other part. See Grade 80 vs Grade 100.
/03Using them.
- Seat the link fully in the slot, flat, with the load running straight out of the fitting.
- Shorten before the lift, with the sling slack, never under load.
- Keep the free end of the chain clear of the load and the hook.
- Rate the sling on the leg angle after shortening — see the sling angle chart.
- Check shorteners for wear and opening at every pre-use check.
Common questions
- What is a chain shortening clutch?
- A forged fitting with a slot that holds one chain link, used to shorten a sling leg without reducing its rating when it is rated at full chain WLL.
- Does a grab hook reduce chain sling capacity?
- It depends on the hook. Some makers require a 20% reduction for conventional grab hooks used to shorten; cradle grab hooks and many makers’ grab hooks carry the full rating.
- Can I shorten a chain sling with a knot?
- No. Knotting chain is prohibited.
- Can I shorten a sling under load?
- No. Adjust the legs with the sling slack, then take up the load.
- Do your shorteners carry the full chain rating?
- Our Grade 80 and Grade 100 clevis shortening clutches and shortening grab hooks are rated at the chain’s WLL for each size.
Shortening clutches and grab hooks
IH-LR-G8-CSCGrade 80 Clevis Shortening Clutch
IH-LR-G10-CSCGrade 100 Clevis Shortening Clutch
IH-LR-G8-SGHCGrade 80 Shortening Grab Hook Clevis
IH-LR-G10-CCGHGrade 100 Cradle Clevis Grab Hook
IH-LR-G10-SHCLGrade 100 Shortening Clevis Link
IH-LR-G8-GRADE80CCGrade 80 Clevis Locking Clutch
IH-LR-G8-CGHGrade 80 Clevis Grab Hook