Tractor Tie Downs

[aczlan]

I do loop it through a clevis with all rounded edges, but I think you're right. Maybe I should use two straps, both attached to the clevis? Then if one is worn or cut, the other will be holding.

So my biggest issue with chains are the ratings and markings. Do I need certified chains and binders with load rating tags on them? Most box store or general chain has markings, but no tag. I've never seen the binders with any load markings or tags. Maybe tagged chain is only for hoisting? I get nervous with this, because technically I am operating this as a commercial enterprise, and want to be DOT compliant.

FYI - typically I only transport my Kubota (estimated load about 4600 lbs) within a 10 mile radius on country roads. The John Deere is in NY, so I no longer need to move anything from state to state.

If you look at a grade 70 chain, it will have a 7 or 70 stamped into the chain every few links. That is how they can tell what rating it is.

Aaron Z

 

[Jcoon]

Curious. Does DOT ever consider what the chains/straps are actually attached to and the integrity of that tie down?

There are NO ratings for tie down attachments, they cannot be cracked, broken, or bent. It痴 one of things kinda goes by our judgement.

 

[Lelandwelds]

There are NO ratings for tie down attachments, they cannot be cracked, broken, or bent. Itç—´ one of things kinda goes by our judgement.

Is that inspectorese for "the part of the trailer you tie to"? Most of my trailers have a 3/8 x 2 flat bar rub rail for hooks. Gravity keeps them from unhooking. That's a fair bit of steel to stretch and spring back.

 

[Jcoon]

Lol yes where the tie downs attach too, wether it be the trailer, or the tractor side, or whatever your hauling.

 

[Industrial Toys]

I have one commercially built dump trailer that looks like welded with a stick by a five year old. One old Scottish Boat builder and welder I knew just called that SNOT! I'm sure there isn't much substantial to chain onto.

 

[bdog]

Curious. Does DOT ever consider what the chains/straps are actually attached to and the integrity of that tie down?

I have never seen any ratings on attachment points on smaller trailers meant to be pulled with pickups. On large trailer pulled by semis like my 53’ Fontaine flatbed there are ratings for the rub rail, chain spools, sliding ratchets, etc. I think nearly all semi trailers have ratings on the attachment points.

On smaller trailers I think common sense prevails along with the fact it is fairly difficult to get anything too heavy on the trailer to where the attachment point would be a concern.

 

[OverandOut]

Be sure your tractor/equipment/attachments are secured properly but also make sure your weighted tags covers the load you are hauling. I got pulled 4 yrs ago and weighed, was secured properly so not sure what fines are for not being secured but I borrowed a friends tractor and bottom plow that was much bigger than my tractor. My tags were for 15,000lbs and the officer weighed me a little over 21,000lbs, there was no breaks or going to court just pay the fine which was $542.

 

[crashz]

I didn't know about the color of the chains (thought it was just for corrosion protection) and verified the chain stamping that aczlan mentioned.

I've always used chains before until this summer. But went to straps for the ease and load tagging. But they never sat well with me. So I bought new 5/16" chains and binders yesterday. One for each corner. I'll use the big straps for the loader bucket and 3pt attachment. Since I have other chain for pulling and such, these will be dedicated to the trailer only. With that configuration I'll have 26,000 lbs of holding strength for a load less than 5000 lbs.

 

[Jcoon]

Remember also! You only have to account for half the load. If machine was 5,000 pounds, straps/chains need to be good for 2,500 pounds.

Also, you only get HALF the load limit of a tie down if it goes from anchor point on vehicle to anchor point on article of cargo (TRACTOR)... or if goes anchor point on vehicle, passes through over or around the article of cargo (TRACTOR) and is then attached to an anchor point on the SAME side of the vehicle.

You only get the FULL working load limit of a strap/chain if it goes from anchor point on vehicle through over or around the article of cargo (TRACTOR), and then attaches to an anchor point on the OTHER SIDE of the vehicle.

VEHICLE being trailer.

 

[schmism]

so the straps with chain hook ends vs chain. a set of 4 straps at $70 each is the same price as a 4 pack of 5/16 chain and binders. I would argue i can do a lot more with the chain and binders that you wouldn't do with the straps especially around the farm. The longevity and durability of the chain means Ill be useing it for the heavy tiedown. For the light stuff straps still have the advantage.