Ratchet tie down straps are essential for securing cargo during transport. Each year, these straps are damaged due to improper storage and use.
The strap’s hooked end should be secured to an anchor on the truck or trailer bed. Then, the ratchet handle must be turned back and forth to secure the strap.
Instructions
Ratchet straps are used by OTR truckers, professional movers, or to secure cargo on your flatbed trailer, moving van, or pickup. These straps are unmatched in strength and security, and can also be used to stop loads shifting in transit.
Also known as lashing straps or tie down straps, a strap ratchet is a webbing piece equipped with tie down hardware. The hardware includes fittings on the ends to allow the strap to connect to anchor points loop over or around cargo or equipment as well as a method for closing and tightening.
To make use of the ratchet lever, first make sure it is fully open. Then, compress the release lever until you can unlock it.
Once the strap is fully taut, you can open and close the ratchet to an extent that it’s secured but not too tight. You’ll know whether you’ve overtightened the strap if you can’t fit your fingers between the strap and the item to be secured. When you are satisfied with the outcome, turn the ratchet into its closed position. Make sure you press it until it snaps.
Securing Cargo
No matter if you are hauling ATVs or lumber in a flatbed, the aim is to secure your cargo and stop it from moving during transport. The best way to accomplish this is with Ratchet straps that are calibrated for the weight. Determine the maximum workload of a ratchet belt by divising its strength in breaking by three.
Place both ends of the tie down straps on anchor points, such as rails, e-track or other secure anchor points. Pull the strap’s free end through the slot on the ratchet. Be sure that the free end of the strap isn’t too long or it will cause the ratchet to jam when tightening.
After you have placed the strap in the desired position then use the ratchet to eliminate any looseness. Then begin tightening the strap. Keep your finger on the ratchet’s handle to tell when you reach the maximum working load and you need to stop. Make sure not to tighten too much the strap, since it could damage your cargo and also cause the ratchet to crack.
Proper Use
Ratchet straps are an essential trailer accessory for flatbeds that are designed for heavy-duty cargo securement. However, it’s easy to make a mistake cao chang hang when using these straps that can cause harm to your load, or even the ratchet itself.
Before you apply a ratchet strap, inspect the ratchet handle and webbing assembly for damage or signs of wear. Apply dry silicone spray or WD-40 to the handles of ratchets for smoother operation.
After that, connect the end of the ratchet strap through the slot in the mandrel. Make sure there’s no excess slack. Once the webbing is properly threaded, you can close the ratchet handle in order to tighten it around your load.
Repeat this process until your strap is at optimal tension. Avoid over-tightening as this may cause harm to the cargo, or to the mechanism of ratcheting itself. Make sure to use a ratchet strap with the correct end-fittings such as grab hooks, wire hooks, flat hooks chains and S-hooks. Keep your ratchet belt free of direct sunlight when storing it. UV light will degrade the synthetic webbing over the course of time.
Tie down Strap Safety Tips
Like any other tool or equipment, it is essential to regularly check the ratchet straps to check for indications of wear and tear or damage. Moisture is a huge problem for ratchet straps, as it could cause mildew and mold, and reduce the strength of the polyester tie-down webbing these straps are made from.
A noticeable color change is also a good indication that a ratchet belt may be starting to degrade. The sun’s UV rays can result in the webbing of the straps to break down. Keep them out of direct sunlight.
Lubricating the straps of ratchets is a good idea. This will allow the hardware to move smoothly and stop corrosion. Just be sure to only apply a dry silicone spray, as solvents like WD-40 can cause harm when they come in contact with the webbing.
Ratchet Strap Tightening Guide
Inspecting and maintaining your ratchet belts regularly is the best method to be sure they operate properly and last for a long period of time. Your ratchets will work better when you clean and frequently lubricate them. It is also important to store them in a space which is dry and free of sharp objects or corners which could cause harm.
There are numerous options when it comes to ratcheting straps. You can pick according to your cargo security needs. There are endless loops e-track fittings, flat hooks, wire hooks, and s hooks. The correct fitting at the end is vital to keep your ratchet belts safe and safe out on the road.
When choosing ratchet straps, always look for ones that have clearly visible working load limit tag the straps. It is illegal in several states to utilize a ratchet strap that does not have one, and could put you at risk of being charged fines or even worse even losing your trucking job because of it. Be sure to pick a high-quality ratchet strap that has been constructed to be durable enough to hold the weight it is designed for.
