Everything You Need to Know About Manure Spreader Aprons

At Farmchains.com, manure spreader aprons are our specialty. With over 17 years of hands-on experience in agricultural chain systems, we've helped countless farmers across the Midwest keep their spreaders running reliably season after season. Whether you're replacing a worn apron or building a new spreader, this guide will help you understand what we offer and how to get the right fit.

Watch Our Measurement Video:

What is a Manure Spreader Apron?

A manure spreader apron is the chain-driven conveyor system that moves material from the front of the spreader box to the beaters at the rear. The apron consists of steel detachable chain with slats or bars attached that push the manure toward the discharge end. It's one of the hardest-working components on your spreader, operating under heavy loads in corrosive conditions.

What We Offer at Farmchains.com

We specialize in premium manure spreader apron chain and components, with a focus on USA-made quality and hard-to-find sizes:

Steel Detachable Chain and steel Pintle chain for Aprons:

• 662 Class Chain - Heavy-duty standard for most spreader applications
• 667 Class Chain - Extra-heavy duty for demanding conditions
• 400 Class Chain - Versatile option for various spreader sizes
• 88C Class Chain - Specialized applications

Chain Components:

• Connecting links (master links) for easy installation
• Offset links (half links) for precise length adjustment
• Replacement links for repairs
• Attachment links for mounting slats

USA Made Quality:

Many of our chain products are manufactured right here in the USA, ensuring superior quality, consistency, and durability. Look for the USA Made badge on product pages to identify domestically manufactured items.

How to Measure for a New Manure Spreader Apron

Getting accurate measurements is critical for a proper-fitting apron. Watch the video above for a detailed visual guide, then follow the step-by-step instructions below.

Step 1: Measure the Box Length

Measure center of front shaft to center of rear shaft. This gives you the working length the apron needs to cover.

Step 2: Determine Chain Pitch

Chain pitch is the distance between pin centers. Common spreader chain pitches include:

• 1.664" pitch (662 pintle chain)
• 2.250" pitch (667X pintle chain)
• 2.609" pitch (88C pintle chain)
• 2.313" pitch (67H steel detachable chain)
• 2.906" pitch (S steel detachable chain)

If you have a sample of your existing chain, measure from the center of one pin to the center of the next pin. This is your pitch.

Step 3: Count the Number of Slats

Spreader aprons typically use a large number of slats to move manure.

Step 4: Measure Slats Spacing

Count how many plain chain links are between each slat.

Step 5: Calculate Total Chain Length Needed

The apron chain must travel around the front and rear sprockets and span the box length. To determine the length needed measure from center of front shaft to center of rear shaft.

Step 6: Identify Attachment Style

Note how slats or bars attach to your chain - this determines which attachment links you'll need. Are they welded or riveted?

What We Need to Know When Ordering a Custom Apron

When you contact us for a custom manure spreader apron, having the following information ready will help us provide an accurate quote and ensure you get exactly what you need:

Critical Measurements:

• Spreader box length - Center of front shaft to center of rear shaft
• Chain pitch - Distance between pin centers (or send us a sample link)
• Number of Bars - How many bars on apron and dimensions of bars.
• Bar spacing - How many plain links between each slat / bar.
• Total apron width - Measure center to center on rear drive sprockets.

Chain Specifications:

• Chain class - 662, 667, 400, 88C, or other (we can help identify if unsure)
• Attachment style - How slats/bars connect to the chain
• Attachment spacing - Distance between slat mounting points
• Special requirements - Corrosion resistance, extra-heavy duty, etc.

Spreader Information:

• Spreader make and model - If replacing an existing apron
• Spreader age and condition - Helps us recommend appropriate components
• Typical load capacity - Light, medium, or heavy-duty use
• Operating conditions - Frequency of use, material types, environmental factors

Installation Preferences:

• Pre-assembled or components - Do you want a complete ready-to-install apron or individual components?
• Slat material preference - If applicable to your application
• Timeline - When do you need the apron installed?

Helpful to Provide:

• Photos of your current apron (especially attachment points and wear areas)
• Sample links from your existing chain
• Spreader serial number or nameplate information
• Any previous apron specifications or part numbers

Don't have all this information? No problem! Our team can walk you through the measurement process and help identify what you need. We've been doing this for over 17 years and can often determine specifications from photos or a brief description of your spreader.

Common Manure Spreader Apron Sizes

While every spreader is different, here are some common configurations we supply:

• 14-foot box spreaders: Typically use 2 strands of 662 or 667 chain
• 16-foot box spreaders: Often use 2-3 strands of 667 heavy-duty chain
• Larger commercial spreaders: May use 3-4 strands of 667 or 88C chain

Why Choose Farmchains.com for Your Spreader Apron?

• 17+ Years of Expertise: We specialize in manure spreader aprons and agricultural chain systems
• USA Made Options: Premium domestic manufacturing for superior quality
• Hard-to-Find Sizes: We stock sizes other suppliers don't carry
• Expert Support: Based in the Midwest, we understand your equipment and applications
• Quality Components: Heat-treated, precision-manufactured chain built for demanding agricultural use
• Custom Solutions: We can build aprons to your exact specifications

Ready to Order Your Custom Apron?

Choosing the correct chain for your manure spreader apron is critical for reliable operation. Our team has the hands-on experience to help you get it right the first time.

Contact us for expert assistance:

• Phone: 815-973-2648 or 800-648-5429
• Text Photos: 815-973-2648
• Email: info@farmchains.com

We're here to help you find the right solution for your spreader, whether you need a complete custom apron, a standard replacement, or individual components for repairs. Call us today to discuss your specific needs!