Ratchet tie down straps are essential for securing cargo during transportation. However, each year these straps are damaged by improper use and storage.
To secure a load, the hooked end of the strap needs to be fixed to a sturdy anchor cao chang hang point on your trailer or truck bed. Then, the ratchet handle must be turned in a circular motion to secure the strap.
Instructions
Ratchet straps can be utilized by OTR truckers, professional movers, or to secure cargo onto your flatbed trailer, moving van, or pickup. These straps are unmatched in their strength and safety, and are also able to stop loads shifting during transport.
A strap called a ratchet belt is an elastic strap that has been fabricated with tie-down hardware. Hardware is made up of fittings at the end of the strap that permit it to be tied to anchor points and then looped over or around cargo or equipment. It also has an option to tighten it and secure it into the position.
To use the ratchet, open it fully flat. To unlock the ratchet strap first press the release lever.
Close and open the ratchet until the strap is secured, however, it shouldn’t be too tight. If you cannot fit your finger between the strap and object the strap is securing, you have overtightened it. Once you’re satisfied with the outcome, turn the ratchet to its closed position. Make sure you press it until it snaps.
Securing Cargo
It doesn’t matter if you’re transporting ATVs or lumber in a flatbed, the goal is to secure your cargo and stop it from moving during transport. The most effective method to achieve this is with Ratchet straps that are designed to handle the weight. A strap’s limit of work is determined by calculating its breaking strength, then dividing it by three.
Begin by putting the hooked ends of your tie-down strap through secure anchor points on the trailer or truck such as the rails or etrack system. You can pull the strap’s free ends through the slot on the ratchet. The free end of strap should not be too long, as it can cause the ratchet jam when tightening.
Once the free end of your strap is positioned then pump the ratchet handle to eliminate the excess slack, and then begin pressing it down. Keep your finger on the handle of the ratchet to know when you’ve reached the limit of your working capacity and need to stop. Overtightening the strap can result in damage to your cargo as well as damage to the ratchet.
Proper Use
Ratchet straps are a must have flatbed trailer accessory for heavy-duty cargo securement. It is easy to apply the straps in a wrong way and could cause damage to the load and the ratchet.
Before you apply an ratchet strap the webbing and ratchet handle assembly for damage or signs of wear. Apply WD-40 or dry silicone spray to the ratchet handles for smoother operation.
Then then, you’ll need to then thread the free end of your ratchet strap through the opening on the mandrel. Ensure that there’s not any slack in the webbing. After the webbing has been properly threaded, close the ratchet handle in order to tighten it around your load.
Repeat the process until you reach the tension you want to achieve. The excess tension could damage your cargo as well as the ratchet mechanism. Make sure you use ratchets that have the correct end fittings. They include hooks with flat sides or chains. Keep your ratchet strap out of direct sun light when storing it. UV light will deteriorate the synthetic webbing over time.
Tie down Strap Safety Tips
As with any tools or equipment, it is essential to regularly check the ratchet straps to check for signs of damage and wear. Moisture is a concern for ratchets straps. It could cause mildew and mold to develop and also affect the quality of the polyester webbing that is used to make the straps.
The noticeable loss of color is a sign that a ratchet belt may be starting to degrade. UV rays from the sun can cause the webbing of the straps to break down. Be sure to keep them out of direct sunlight.
In addition, lubricating your ratchet straps periodically is also a good idea. This can help the hardware flow smoothly and avoid corrosion. Make sure you use dry silicone sprays for this, since solvents such as WD-40 can cause harm when they come into contact with the webbing.
Ratchet Strap Tightening Guide
Maintaining your ratchet belts properly is the best method to be sure that they function properly and last a long time. Regular cleaning and lubrication helps in keeping your ratchet straps in good functioning condition. Store them in an area that is dry and away from sharp corners or objects that could cause harm.
When you’re looking for ratchet straps, there are many different choices to pick from based on your cargo securement needs. There are endless hooks as well as etrack fittings (also called e-tracks), flat hooks, and wire hooks. A proper fitting for the end is essential to keeping your ratchet belts safe and safe out on the road.
Always choose ratchets straps that are marked with a clearly visible load limit for working. It is illegal in a variety of states to utilize a ratchet strap that does not have one and it could expose you to the risk of being charged fines, or worse being fired from your trucking position as a result of it. Also, be sure to choose a quality ratchet strap that has been designed to be strong enough to secure the weight it is designed for.
