Chain and binder clarification please and thanks in advance

Binders usually do 2 sizes of chain. For example it can be 5/16"+3/8" or 3/8"+1/2"

It sounds like you have the larger size which isn't suppose to be used on 5/16" chain, or atleast not rated for it.

 

Nope,

As @DaytonTD said they normally cover two sizes. Get some 5/16-3/8 binders to work with your 5/16 chains. Using 3/8-1/2 binders on 5/16 chains is asking for problems. Imagine using a 3/8 wrench on a 5/16 bolt or nut. Not a proper fit.

 

I would use the larger binders with the smaller chain. The difference in size in the hooks.
I would either change the hooks on the binder or chain ends. Or I would make a loop in chain to attach the binder.

If I needed to do this often, I would get the correct sized binders.
Good luck.

 

No. The binders are the wrong size for the chain, as someone else has pointed out. That narrowing in the throat can only properly retain the proper size chain adequately. In your case, if you are using those binders, the smallest chain you can legally use with that binder is a 3/8" chain. The 5/16" to 3/8" binder can hold legally those two chain sizes. Using the wrong binder size can allow the smaller chain to be squeezed and distorted by being restrained by that larger rated hook size. Why you would want to mismatch these size items, is beyond me.
Size it properly and you won't have problems or possible violations if stopped and inspected.