We have spoken with the manufacturer and the only steel rod that is on the
Live Trap for Raccoon/Feral Cat Sized Animals - Model TLT108 is the trigger rod which is connected to the trigger and then to the trip pan. They do not have a small chain on any of their traps, so are not really sure one what you could be referring to. It might be best to call them directly to ensure you received the correct trap and for troubleshooting. Tomahawk can be reached at 800-272-8727.