Community Forums

tankcj · 03-24-2015, 03:10 PM

Do you use the frame tie down hooks?...the ones that fit in the slotted holes in the frame of the vehicle to attach a strap/chain for transport?

Currently I strap the front axle down and use the slotted holes in the rear of my JK frame and would like to use the slots in the front but my ratchet strap hooks don't fit so I need to get some of the transport hooks. If you use the hooks that go in the frame, do you know if they are a standard size (the 'T' that goes in the frame)?

palehorse89 · 03-24-2015, 03:35 PM

On my first trip with my enclosed trailer, I used ratchet straps on all 4 corner's, on the frame ,above the suspension, every stop, all the straps were loose........finally, after 4 checks/tighten straps, it hit me.........The part of the suspension I am hooked to is always bouncing! Moved the strap ends down to the shock mounts/axle........straps are tight all the time now, never loosen since moved to a solid/non-moving suspension part on the axles.

rgvtexan · 03-24-2015, 03:56 PM

I use wheel straps on all 4. I always want an un sprung point.

tankcj · 03-24-2015, 03:56 PM

Yeah, I would prefer to go to the axle (that's how I started out) but clipping the hooks to the frame is sooooo much easier and I don't have too much of an issue with bounce.

palehorse89 · 03-24-2015, 04:05 PM

Next time you see a car hauler, pay attention to the car on board, They are moving/bouncing some what.......and they are anchored down by the axle's/solid point. Auto suspension are free to move......
This is the thing that got me to thinking......about my straps working loose, and why. Where ever one hooks up, and it works for them,,, great.

RWeigant · 03-24-2015, 04:53 PM

I have a 27' cargo trailer and I'm going to haul my Honda Trike and a 2014 Ford Focus. The front of the Ford is completely covered. Can't see a way to attach a strap. The back I can attach to the lower part of the shock. I'm thinking about running the strap through the front wheel spokes. See any problem?

palehorse89 · 03-24-2015, 05:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RWeigant

I have a 27' cargo trailer and I'm going to haul my Honda Trike and a 2014 Ford Focus. The front of the Ford is completely covered. Can't see a way to attach a strap. The back I can attach to the lower part of the shock. I'm thinking about running the strap through the front wheel spokes. See any problem?

Maybe try a set of these Amazon.com: Mac's Tie-Downs 511658 Black Pro Pack with 8' x 2" Direct Hook Ratchet Straps, 40" Through-the-Wheel Straps and Fleece Sleeves: Automotive, and tie a 4 wheels down with them.

Rich and Cork · 03-24-2015, 05:50 PM

On my Jeep (and rock buggy) I strap to the axles. We had a BMW Z3 that I used the tie downs as in the first post. I tie down in an X pattern.

jeryan59 · 03-24-2015, 07:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by palehorse89

Maybe try a set of these Amazon.com: Mac's Tie-Downs 511658 Black Pro Pack with 8' x 2" Direct Hook Ratchet Straps, 40" Through-the-Wheel Straps and Fleece Sleeves: Automotive, and tie a 4 wheels down with them.

After many trial, errors and wasted dollars, I love Mac's Tie Downs. I highly recommend calling Mac's and discussing what you intend to strap down.

For instance, I take several different vehicles in my trailer. I also have had issues previously with ratchet straps loosening due to not having the straps on a solid point.

I since have used the spoke of the wheel method to great success, but one of my vehicles there wasn't enough clearance through the wheel and the disc brake. Mac's made the wheel strap with only one metal hook on one end and a nylon hook on the other side so the nylon strap will go between the brake and wheel. Then the metal hook goes through the nylon hook so the ratchet strap will hook onto the metal hook of the wheel strap. I also love the fixed ratchet straps.

You will NOT be disappointed with Mac's!