In the back of every car hauler’s mind lingers the risk that a sudden halter or change in lane can be the only difference between safety and damage of cargo.
Tie-down and tow straps may be of similar material; they solve different problems. Tie down, a long, flat piece woven material, secures the cargo by tightening down the holed.
On the other hand, tow straps are often made of heavy-duty woven material, configured in such a way to hold tires. They usually have a very enormous capacity, between 50000lbs to 100000lbs.
Let us discuss some essential things to know about tow straps and tie-downs;
1.What Quality Straps are Made off and Why does it Matters?
One of the most commonly used materials is polyester webbing. It has unique qualities remarkable, durable, and resistant to cuts and abrasions. Water perfectly slides off it, preventing growth of mildew. They are designed to secure the cargo without reaching its stretchable limits.
During use, they tend to stretch by 3%, which adds up after every use. Always check on your tie down and tow strap for any snapping or break before use. Do not forget to check with the local regulations.
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How to Safely Apply Car Tie-Down and Tow Straps
To prevent your cargo from being severely damaged or worse, the knowledge of strapping a car is essential. Improper towing does not put yourself in danger but also risks the safety of another motorist. The following are step by step on how to tow a vehicle;
- Secure Straps in the Right Spot
Depending on the straps, there are specific ways of applying them. For example, they must be attached to the front and rear axles. Sometimes, ratchets are required to increase tension and tighten the straps connected to the point of suspension. Never attach the straps to the steering component nor the fuel/ brake line. Also, avoid wrapping around wires as they can break on transit causing damages.
- Tightening Trailer Tie-Down Straps
Most of the straps are attached by use of a ratchet system. Firstly, let the thread of the belt through the center spool of the ratchet. Then pull it back in a similar direction to remove slack. Lastly, move the ratchet handle up and down to increase the strap tension until it reaches the proper pressure.
Once the vehicle is secure, you can begin to drive slowly. Make periodic stops every 10 – 20 minutes, especially while using brand new straps as they are more prone to stretching. Maintain the tightness of the belts by adjusting them when necessary. It is also recommended to check on the strap in case of any sharp maneuver or sudden halter. This ensures it hasn’t come loose or damaged.
- Loosening Trailer Tie-Down Straps
After releasing the auto tie-down strap, pull the tap near the handle to override the ratcheting system. Maintain the strap open while pulling the webbing back until the strap is lying flat. Finally, pull the webbing back through the spool as far as required before beginning to unload.
In conclusion, keeping your cargo safe for transit can be easy as long you have the right tool. Ensure the quality of the straps is standard and the load is tightly held. Maintain low speed and avoid instant break and sharp corners.
Tie-down and tow straps may be of similar material; they solve different problems. Tie down, a long, flat piece woven material, secures the cargo by tightening down the holed.
On the other hand, tow straps are often made of heavy-duty woven material, configured in such a way to hold tires. They usually have a very enormous capacity, between 50000lbs to 100000lbs.
Let us discuss some essential things to know about tow straps and tie-downs;
1.What Quality Straps are Made off and Why does it Matters?
One of the most commonly used materials is polyester webbing. It has unique qualities remarkable, durable, and resistant to cuts and abrasions. Water perfectly slides off it, preventing growth of mildew. They are designed to secure the cargo without reaching its stretchable limits.
During use, they tend to stretch by 3%, which adds up after every use. Always check on your tie down and tow strap for any snapping or break before use. Do not forget to check with the local regulations.
How to Safely Apply Car Tie-Down and Tow Straps
To prevent your cargo from being severely damaged or worse, the knowledge of strapping a car is essential. Improper towing does not put yourself in danger but also risks the safety of another motorist. The following are step by step on how to tow a vehicle;
Depending on the straps, there are specific ways of applying them. For example, they must be attached to the front and rear axles. Sometimes, ratchets are required to increase tension and tighten the straps connected to the point of suspension. Never attach the straps to the steering component nor the fuel/ brake line. Also, avoid wrapping around wires as they can break on transit causing damages.
Most of the straps are attached by use of a ratchet system. Firstly, let the thread of the belt through the center spool of the ratchet. Then pull it back in a similar direction to remove slack. Lastly, move the ratchet handle up and down to increase the strap tension until it reaches the proper pressure.
Once the vehicle is secure, you can begin to drive slowly. Make periodic stops every 10 – 20 minutes, especially while using brand new straps as they are more prone to stretching. Maintain the tightness of the belts by adjusting them when necessary. It is also recommended to check on the strap in case of any sharp maneuver or sudden halter. This ensures it hasn’t come loose or damaged.
After releasing the auto tie-down strap, pull the tap near the handle to override the ratcheting system. Maintain the strap open while pulling the webbing back until the strap is lying flat. Finally, pull the webbing back through the spool as far as required before beginning to unload.
In conclusion, keeping your cargo safe for transit can be easy as long you have the right tool. Ensure the quality of the straps is standard and the load is tightly held. Maintain low speed and avoid instant break and sharp corners.
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