What Is a Clevis Slip Hook with Latch and How Does It Work?

In heavy-duty rigging, transportation, and load-securing operations, safety and reliability are non-negotiable. One of the most trusted components for these demanding tasks is the clevis slip hook with latch—a robust, engineered solution that combines adjustability, strength, and enhanced security in a single piece of hardware.

What Is a Clevis Slip Hook with Latch?

A clevis slip hook with latch is a specialized type of forged steel hook designed for secure chain or cable connections. It integrates three key features:

1. Slip Hook Design: An open throat that allows a transport chain to slide through easily for quick setup and tension adjustment.
2. Clevis Mount: A U-shaped base with two aligned holes that accept a bolt, pin, or shackle—enabling the hook to pivot or swivel under load, which reduces stress and improves alignment.
3. Safety Latch: A spring-loaded gate that automatically closes over the hook’s throat once the chain is in place, preventing accidental disengagement due to vibration, shock, or shifting loads.

These hooks are typically forged from high-grade alloy steel, heat-treated for maximum toughness, and stamped with a clear Working Load Limit (WLL) to ensure compliance with safety standards.

How Does It Work?

The clevis slip hook with latch operates through a smart combination of mechanics and safety engineering:

1. Chain Insertion: The chain is passed through the open throat of the hook.
2. Latching Action: Once the chain is seated, the spring-loaded latch snaps shut over the throat, locking the chain in place.
3. Tension Engagement: As the chain is tightened (via a binder or winch), the load presses the chain firmly into the bowl of the hook. The latch ensures the chain cannot bounce or slip out—even under dynamic conditions.
4. Pivoting Flexibility: The clevis mount allows the entire assembly to rotate around the mounting pin, accommodating changes in load angle and minimizing side-loading or binding.

This design makes the clevis slip hook with latch ideal for applications where safety, movement, and reliability are critical.

Common Applications

• Securing heavy equipment, vehicles, or machinery on flatbed trailers.
• Over-the-road hauling where vibration and road shock are constant.
• Recovery and towing operations requiring secure, quick connections.
• Construction and industrial rigging involving frequent repositioning.
• Marine and offshore environments where load stability is essential.

Why Choose a Latched Version?

While standard slip hooks rely solely on tension to stay engaged, the latch adds a vital safety margin—especially in:

• Overhead lifting (where accidental disengagement could be catastrophic).
• High-vibration environments (like long-haul trucking).
• Situations involving sudden load shifts or dynamic forces.

Safety Guidelines

• Always verify the Working Load Limit (WLL) and never exceed it.
• Inspect the latch mechanism regularly to ensure it springs shut properly.
• Check for cracks, deformation, or wear on the hook, clevis, and latch.
• Use only with compatible chains and anchor hardware of equal or higher grade.
• Never force a damaged or stiff latch—replace the hook immediately if compromised.