Choosing The Right Screw Pin Shackle For Your Warn Rock Bumper

The WARN Epic Shackle is a 3/4-inch screw pin shackle with an 18,000-pound load capacity. It is designed to replace a winch hook and shackle, providing a faster, easier, and more direct link to recovery points and rigging accessories. The shackle is made from forged 6061-T6 billet aluminum with a forged steel screw pin and is compatible with winches up to 18,000 pounds. It has a minimum breaking strength of 64,000 pounds and is corrosion, impact, salt, weather, and UV-resistant.

Warn Epic Sidewinder and Hyperlink

The WARN Epic Sidewinder and Hyperlink are part of the Direct Connect Secure Rigging System, which includes rigging accessories for trucks and SUVs. This innovative system simplifies and speeds up the rigging process while requiring fewer recovery gear components.

The Epic Sidewinder is a unique rigging accessory that replaces the winch hook and the need for a shackle, providing a faster and more direct connection to recovery points and rigging accessories. It is compatible with most bumper recovery points, D-ring shackles, recovery straps, rope extensions, and soft shackles. The Sidewinder is made from forged 6061-T6 billet aluminium with a forged steel screw pin. It is compatible with winches up to 18,000 lbs capacity and has a minimum breaking strength of 64,000 lbs. When not in use, the Sidewinder nests neatly against the fairlead, giving a sleek appearance with minimal bumper protrusion. It is available in three finishes: polished, black, or gunmetal, with the latter two featuring a Type III hard-anodized finish for durability. An optional polyurethane isolator, in black or red, can be purchased separately to protect the pin from debris and enhance the overall look.

The Epic Hyperlink is a dual-pin shackle that allows for direct and easy attachment to other recovery accessories. It can be quickly connected to hooks, straps, snatch blocks, rope extensions, shackle mount links, D-ring shackles, and soft shackles. The Hyperlink shares the same construction as the Sidewinder, featuring a forged 6061-T6 billet aluminium body and two forged steel screw pins. It is compatible with winches up to 18,000 lbs capacity and has a working load limit of 36,000 lbs and a minimum breaking strength of 72,000 lbs. The Hyperlink is available in polished, black, or gunmetal finishes, with the black and gunmetal options featuring Type III hard anodizing for corrosion resistance. Similar to the Sidewinder, the Hyperlink can be paired with an optional polyurethane isolator in black or red to protect the bumper's finish and prevent debris from damaging the pin shaft.

Both the WARN Epic Sidewinder and Hyperlink offer a fast, easy, and secure rigging experience for trucks and SUVs, providing reliable and stylish recovery solutions.

Shackle pin maintenance

Inspect the Shackle Pin Regularly:

Before each use, inspect the shackle pin for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. Look for any cracks, nicks, or bends in the pin. Also, ensure that the pin is properly secured and engaged. For screw pin shackles, ensure that the threads are fully engaged on the shackle ear and that the pin head makes contact with the shackle body.

Keep the Shackle Pin Clean and Lubricated:

Clean the shackle pin regularly to remove any dirt, debris, or corrosion. Use a wire brush or a mild solvent to clean the pin, ensuring it is free of any contaminants. After cleaning, apply a suitable lubricant to the pin and the shackle to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation.

Use Proper Threadlock or Seizing Methods:

When securing the shackle pin, it is essential to use a threadlocking compound or seizing method to prevent the pin from working itself free due to vibrations. You can use threadlock, electrical cable ties, or Monel wire to secure the pin. Threadlock provides a strong bond but can still be undone with standard tools. Electrical cable ties are cheap and easy to use but may degrade over time due to UV exposure. Monel wire is the gold standard for seizing shackle pins as it is highly resistant to corrosion and UV degradation.

Protect the Shackle Pin from Damage:

Take measures to protect the shackle pin from damage during use. Ensure that the pin is not subjected to high or low temperatures that could affect its strength. The ideal operating temperature range for full working load limit is -4°F to 400°F. Additionally, use a polyurethane isolator to protect the pin from debris and provide a clean appearance.

Replace the Shackle Pin as Needed:

If the shackle pin shows significant wear or damage, replace it with a new one. Shackle pins are subjected to high loads and vibrations, which can weaken them over time. Regularly inspect the pin and replace it if necessary to ensure the continued safe use of the shackle.

By following these maintenance guidelines, you can help ensure the safe and effective use of screw pin shackles with the WARN Rock Bumper.

Shackle size and bumper hole size

When selecting a screw pin shackle for a Warn rock bumper, it is important to consider the shackle size and the corresponding bumper hole size to ensure a secure fit.

The shackle size refers to the diameter of the shackle pin, which is the metal rod that passes through the D-ring or anchor point on the bumper. A common size for screw pin shackles is 3/4 inches, as seen in the Warn Epic Shackle product with a 18,000 lb capacity. This shackle features a forged steel body and a Cerakote coating for maximum protection and durability.

The bumper hole size refers to the diameter of the hole in the D-ring or anchor point on the bumper where the shackle pin will be inserted. It is important to ensure that the shackle pin fits securely through the bumper hole without being too tight or too loose. In some cases, the hole may need to be reamed or enlarged slightly to accommodate the shackle pin.

When selecting a screw pin shackle, it is recommended to choose one with a similar capacity rating to your winch. Additionally, it is important to consider the working load limit and the ultimate breaking strength of the shackle to ensure it can safely handle the intended recovery tasks.

Some screw pin shackles may also offer different coating options, such as zinc or chromate, to provide additional protection against corrosion and rust. It is also worth noting that some shackles may come with a polyurethane isolator that helps protect the pin from debris and provides a clean appearance.

Shackle weight ratings

Shackles are an essential component in rigging systems, providing a secure connection point for various applications. When selecting a shackle, it's crucial to consider its weight rating, also known as the working load limit, to ensure safe operation.

The weight ratings of shackles can vary significantly, ranging from a few tons to several thousand pounds. For instance, the Fehr Load Rated Anchor Shackle has a working load limit of 2 tons, while the Epic D-Ring Shackle from WARN Industries boasts an impressive 18,000 lb capacity. It's important to note that shackle weight ratings are typically accompanied by a safety factor, such as 5:1 or 6:1, indicating the margin of safety built into the design.

When choosing a shackle, it's imperative to select one with a working load limit that exceeds the expected load. This precaution helps ensure the shackle can safely handle the weight without compromising its integrity. Additionally, regular inspections of shackles are crucial, and they should be replaced if any signs of wear, distortion, or damage are observed.

The design of the shackle also plays a role in its weight rating. For instance, anchor shackles feature a rounded design, enabling them to accommodate loads from multiple directions without experiencing significant side loads. This design makes them well-suited for applications such as industrial, agricultural, and marine rigging systems.

In summary, shackle weight ratings are a critical factor in ensuring safe rigging practices. By selecting a shackle with an appropriate working load limit and adhering to safety guidelines, users can confidently employ shackles in various applications, including winching and recovery operations.

Shackle coatings

Shackles come in a variety of coatings, each with its own advantages and use cases. Here is an overview of some common shackle coatings:

Hot-Dip Galvanized Shackles

Hot-dip galvanised steel shackles are a common, cost-effective option for general-purpose applications. They offer moderate corrosion resistance and are easy to inspect and maintain. These shackles are often made with strong steel, contributing to a high working load limit. As a versatile option, they can be used both indoors and outdoors.

Powder-Coated Shackles

Powder-coated galvanised shackles, often made with black oxide steel, offer a more durable coating than hot-dipped galvanised shackles. This type is suitable for dynamic rigs and repeated movements due to its enhanced coating.

Stainless Steel Shackles

When corrosion resistance is a priority, stainless steel shackles are ideal. While they may not be as strong as steel shackles, they excel in saltwater and other reactive environments. Stainless steel provides the best resistance to corrosion, although periodic maintenance and cleaning are recommended to prevent potential rust over time.

ArmorGalv® Coating

The ArmorGalv® coating is a superior corrosion-resistant finish available for the AEV off-road shackle. It is paired with a high-visibility, zinc-plated pin.

Zinc or Zinc and Chromate Coating

Some shackles feature a zinc or zinc and chromate coating, which can be purchased with a Square Trade warranty for added protection.

Frequently asked questions