ratchet straps
Thread Starter
|
Senior User
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 265
Likes: 0
From: Phoenix, AZ
ratchet straps
i will be towing my jeep for the first time in a couple of weeks and i was wondering how many ratchet straps should i use and where should i put them? i know that more is better but i don't want to buy more than i need.
Freshman User
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 41
Likes: 0
I use 4...one at each corner. I have been tying the axles down to the trailer and letting the frame & body move on the springs. I have a friend who likes to tie the frame down and compress the springs as it limits movement and doesn't upset the handling of his smaller tow vehicle. I have towed my off road vehicle a couple of times this way with good results but am by no means an expert at it and would also welcome input from others that have more experience. I am using 4 3" ratchet straps with built in axle wraps. I found them on Ebay from a company called Southern Tent Co. They are very nice quality, American made, and do the job nicely.
Playing in the Dirt
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 2,302
Likes: 1
From: Southwest Georgia
The purpose of tying down a vehicle or any load is to prevent the vehicle or load from shifting (moving). Attaching straps to the frame and compressing the suspension is the recommended method, as this will limit the amount of sway and bounce of the vehicle being trailered. If you get in high winds, bumpy roads, or an emergency, an axle strapped vehicle can bounce and sway enough, (especially a tall top heavey vehicle) to cause your trailer to become unstable and sway or overturn. You want to limit front/rear and side/side movement the most. Four straps, one at all four corners is required by some states for trailered vehicles. With a narrow trailer it is recommened that you cross or X the front and rear straps, as this will best limit the side/side movement. It is a good idea to carry at least two extra straps with you incase one or more become damaged, frayed or cut. Always error on the side of saftey. Happy towing.
Elder User
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 898
Likes: 0
If you are in a situation where the Jeep tied to the trailer by the axles causes you to loose controal, You will loose it anyway.
I tie to the axles so it LETS the suspention work. It's much easier on the "stuff" have in my truck. Things don't get bounced around. (Tool box, radio's, spare parts....)
I would use 4 straps crossed (LF Jeep to RF trailer) at least 3" wide. if I could.
The "baskets" that fit on the tires are good too. probably the easiest to hook up. With 1000's of miles towed this way by others, you can bet it's safe.
I tie to the axles so it LETS the suspention work. It's much easier on the "stuff" have in my truck. Things don't get bounced around. (Tool box, radio's, spare parts....)
I would use 4 straps crossed (LF Jeep to RF trailer) at least 3" wide. if I could.
The "baskets" that fit on the tires are good too. probably the easiest to hook up. With 1000's of miles towed this way by others, you can bet it's safe.
Senior User
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 287
Likes: 2
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
jowilker
1961 - 1966 F-100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
9
Apr 25, 2013 04:11 PM
