US Made Chain Binders

[Easyeddystrees]

I looked through the internet for ratcheting chain binders that are made the USA after my Chinese chain binders from Menards became almost unusable. It was only a month of outside exposure on my tandem trailer and the reversing lever controls were barely able to be switched. Premature rust causing seizing- I figured I better return them and get USA!

So I found Columbus McKinnon which proudly proclaims their manufacture location. However, the quality control on the rod threads seems to be lacking. One of the two chain binders had buggered threads really bad. I didn't trust it to be operable under heavy load because the threads were so shredded and cracked from manufacture. So I returned them and ordered another pair with a special memo for quality review before shipment. The second pair I ordered had a bad rod thread as well! I called and they immediately offered to do the exchange and send images of the item to me so I could approve it myself.

I have two good chain binders now but have not yet needed to use them since the replacement just arrived today- has anybody else had these kinds of issues with Columbus McKinnon, or know of any other US made brands that are worth having?

 

[dledinger]

I put chainsaw bar oil on mine, a lot of folks think they’re better off dry. Mine live outside, fully exposed, year round, and years on end. They still seize sometimes, but that’s what happens when they stay in the weather. In every case, it’s the reversing lever that sticks. I just whack it, and keep trucking.

 

[mikehaugen]

This is sad to hear, c-m is one of the only (maybe THE only) source of domestic rigging gear and you could expect the highest quality because you sure pay for it.

Another thought... for preservation you may try fluid-film.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

 

[mcj115]

I believe the Crosby binders/ratcheting binders are still made in the US.

 

[matt_i]

The more I use Fluid Film the more convinced it should be "painted" on anything left outdoors with bare metal or the start of rust.

 

[Farmall450]

I have never had a problem with their binders. I do leave them in a tool box, however. I can't imagine that size of threads being so poor they'd strip.