Tractor tie down points

Corley5 · January 07, 2018, 01:03:35 PM

I don't like Cheerios ;D
Codes are just a minimum requirement. Just because it says that's all that's required doesn't mean that more isn't better. Just like a building code that calls for 2X4s doesn't mean that 2X6s aren't better ;D We hauled antique tractors all over the US and out of Canada for several years and always used lots of chains and binders. A Farmall H for example weighs 3875 lbs dry. We put a chain and binder at four corners of one. I'd rather be extra secure.

starmac · January 07, 2018, 04:02:48 PM

Right along with that regulation that requires 4 chains for rolling stock 10,000 pounds and more, it requires 2 chains for under 10,000.

I have never, ever seen a trucker using straps on rolling stock other than light vehicles with the saddle straps that cradle the tires.
Even when I hauled utility trailers, those that had the tires on them were chained, without were strapped.

Straps will take paint off too, hauling new tractors, we used pieces of carpet under the chains, the same with hauling new trailers with straps.

square1 · January 07, 2018, 06:20:48 PM

Chain may be a best practice and in some instances (heavy equipment) the only tiedown system with a working load limit capable of meeting regulation but it is not the letter of the law. Nether the regulation for <10,000 nor the one for =>10,000 lbs. specify chain, both simply state "tie downs". Appendix A, default WLL for unmarked tiedowns, lists everything from manilla rope to grade 100 chain including synthetic strapping. One 2" strap on the front and one 4" on the rear would be required for my 4,000 pound tractor. Would I do that? No. It would however be legal.

starmac · January 07, 2018, 07:11:56 PM

Regardless of the law, I always used at least 3 chains on a tractor, reason being, I wanted at least one end to be cross chained. When I hauled new tractors, they generally dictated where the chains would be, and the number of them, 3 chains were always dictated on the lighter ones I hauled, they supplied the padding when needed.

lopet · January 07, 2018, 08:22:59 PM

Quote from: Corley5 on January 07, 2018, 01:03:35 PM
I don't like Cheerios ;D

I was just waiting for that.

This is a little off topic, but isn't it funny how a few letters ( I know it's four in this case ) can make a total different meaning out of something. Sorry for yanking your chain square 1, just couldn't resist.