Load Securement - Chains, Chain Binders - Straps

Oh and while on that subject , for anybody that don't know hooking a chain hook to a rail normally is not a prop per tie down point , like was said in an earlier post the rail doesn't have a " rating "been seeing that a lot lately also ,

 

Depends on the trailer. I've pulled flats and steps where the rail is rated.

And I will disagree that lever binders are "junk" binders. I carry both ratchet and lever binders. There are situations where the lever binder will work much more effectively than the a ratchet binder will, and that's why I carry them. I will concede that they're a more dangerous type of binder to use if you're working with them improperly, but, no one got into heavy haul for a safer day-to-day work environment.

One work-around for tie-downs/ eyelets on machinery that is too small to pass a hook through if you're choking the chain for your securement is to "lasso" the end of the hook (the same as choking it, but, without passing it through the eyelet). With one end lasso'd, hook the other end to wherever you're hooking to the trailer, then slip the lasso'd end through the links. Hook the binder to the lasso'd end and then back to the trailer, and tighten (make sure the ratchet binder is walked out fairly far, you'll have more slack than usual to suck out).

 

Sorry. I wanted to continue with the conversation, but, I have been in transition with companies.

Regarding G70 chains or Higher grade alloy chains, someone mention would I rather have a chain stretch or break??

Hmm. Interesting statement. I guess is a chain snapped immediately when I was securing the item, that would be better then having the chain stretch and then having it break on the road.

I also don't think one should be applying so much pressure that would cause the chain to stretch or break. I would think that much pressure depending on what is being secured could damaged the load with that much pressure. I would not think one could come near to stretching /breaking a g100 1/2 or 5/8" chain. The force
required to do so sounds almost impossible. That is not to say the load (mass of the load) couldn't.

My new venture, I started out with all 3/8" chain with 3/8 / 1/2 binders. Binders are rated at 12,000lbs. I purchased all ratched binders.

I agree there might be a case for a need for a snap binder, but, that being said, My first venture with them, I tried to sinch one down and cought the edge of the deck of the trailer with both elbows. When I did it, I stood around in an empty yard with my hands on my shoulder because I thought I broke both arms. The pain was so bad it took 1 month to go away. This being said, I learned that lesson and never did that again. But, I also will stay away from them as much as possible.

I think for tight situations where the ratchet could not be used, then a snap binder is in order. But, after that, throw them away and get the Quick Binders. They are rated G80 and can be locked so no one can steel/loosen the load.