When our chain broke, took the payloader and tipped it upside down.  Really doesn't hurt anything if you do it right. Replacement aprons are not all created equal.  Our first replacement was junk.  Had "connectors" welded every 4' or so.  Single apron, they simply let go.  Current apron was made by local blacksmith. Heaviest link available in that pitch, 1.5 times as many slats to spread the weight and heavier slats .  Was cheaper than any other option.  And I agree with any comments above about keeping aprons tight enough.  A tight apron should "pull" off the sprocket. Our sprockets are original.