Heavy-duty and high-strength die-lock chains are
DETACHABLE LINKS. Shots of anchor
physically similar to some of the smaller sizes of
chain are joined by a detachable link, shown in
standard die-lock chain but have higher breaking
figure 7-2. The Navy type of detachable link
strengths. Size for size, the links fit the same wildcat
consists of a C-shaped link with two coupling
(windlass drum).
plates, which form one side and the stud of the
link. A taper pin holds the parts together and is
locked in place at its large end by a lead plug.
Chain Nomenclature
Detachable link parts are not interchangeable, so
matching numbers are stamped on the C-link and
A chain is made of many parts besides links, and a
on each coupling plate to ensure identification
variety of equipment is used to maintain the chain. The
and proper assembly. You will save time and
following paragraphs describe a chain and its associated
trouble trying to match these parts if you
hardware:
disassemble only one link at a time and clean,
STANDARD SHOTS. The lengths of chain that
slush, and reassemble it before disassembling
are connected together to make up the ship's
another. When you reassemble a detachable
anchor chain are called shots. A standard shot is
link, make sure the taper pin is seated securely.
15 fathoms (90 feet) long. Each shot of chain
You can do this by driving the pin in with a punch
usually bears a serial number, either stamped or
and hammer before you insert the lead plug over
cut at the time of manufacture, on the inner side
the pin's large end. Detachable link toolbox sets
of its end links. If an end link is lost or removed
contain tools and parts, including spare taper
from a shot, this identification number should be
pins and lock plugs, for assembling and
either cut or stamped on the inside of the new end
link of the altered shot.
disassembling links and detachable end links.
Figure 7-2.--Detachable link.
7-2
