BigEddy:
This is right up my alley, so to speak.
Being a Michigan Steel Hauler, I use chain binders more in a week than you will in your lifetime.
Here are the rules:
Depending on what your chaining down, chains or straps can be used. Material that has a sharp edge, like a FEL bucket should be chained. That is, unless you use some sort of edge protection like a peice of rubber to shield the strap from the sharp edge. The sharp edge will fray and eventually cut the strap.
Chain binders come in a few different styles. There is the regular "snap" binder or the safety "snap" binder. The difference is, the safety binder when tensioned closed, will release the pressure on the handle whereas the standard snap always has tension on the handle. Snap binders all use an "over center" principal whereas the binder cams over to lock.
Ratchet binders all come in one style, just with different load ratings.
Chains are all about the same, just different grades and load ratings too. However, chain does come in different link sizes, the most common is 3/8" or 1/2". Chains need to be stamped on every 3rd. link as to the grade.
Whatever system you decide upon, make sure that you have enough chains or straps to handle the gross weight of the item you are hauling.
Most states recognize 1 chain for every 6,000 pounds of cargo weight as long as the chains are stamped with a grade mark.
If you are planning to go down the road with a load chained or strapped down, be sure to have it chained or strapped properly. You become fair game for any DOT or law enforcement official to inspect your load and determine if you are within the proper guidelines. If you are not, you can be fined for an insecure load. /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif
