I just got 1/2 inch chip brush and gave mine a couple of coats of black Plasti-Dip. It took a while because I had to let parts dry and then turn to coat different spots but no more rattling (which is constantly annoying) and no more paint whacking. As teens, we'd use bicycle innertubes too but we learned there are two problems. One...even if you cut slits in them they still harbor enough water to make your chain rust where the paint wears off and Two...they don't really add to the look. Some guys would cut them into 2 pieces, open at the bottom so water could drain out (the cut being at the bend). Probably just me but I never liked that look at all. For the part that secures the gate, use a piece of shrink wrap over the hook. It will make it hold nicely and once again...it won't rattle, chip paint or rust. Good luck!
