Tie down points

[Gravdigr]

Yeah I have been using the stake pocket method for many years sa described above. But my stake pockets are not traditional stake pockets as my trailer does not have sideboards. I basically welded some pieces of 4" channel at several places along the side of my trailer so I always have a place to hook regardless of wether I'm hauling my backhoe, skid loader, mowers, 4 wheelers, whatever.

[Willl]

Originally Posted by Dargo

Yes, that is exactly what a DOT officer pointed out to me. I got stopped, weighed, checked etc., and passed (whew!). However, the officer did tell me that I was using the stake pocket wrong. I'd just dropped the chain down into the pocket and let it grab the side of the pocket when lifting up. He didn't fine me or anything but told me I was attaching the chain incorrectly. The correct way is to drop the chain hook down through the pocket, bring the hook back up on the outside of the pocket and let the grab hook drop back down, grabbing the stake pocked from the outside with the hook pointing down. (hopefully I explained that so it is understandable) That way if the chain gets loose for some reason the chain hook stays hooked in the pocket. If you just drop the chain down through the pocket and let it grab on the underside of the pocket it will come off if there is any slack. I didn't know that, but it made sense after he showed me. Anyway, I honestly thanked him and have been hooking the chain in the stake pockets the right way ever since.

Obviously I didn't explain it well enough, but I meant what you explained in your post.
Maybe I can find a pic.

Like so....

[RobJ]

yep, this way it won't come loose while on the other side!!

[Dargo]

Originally Posted by Willl

Obviously I didn't explain it well enough, but I meant what you explained in your post.
Maybe I can find a pic.

Like so....

Oh, you explained it perfectly for me. Your picture is exactly what the DOT officer said is the proper way to attach the hook. Great picture!