Trucks, Trailers, Towing and Misc Accessories - Page 8

**SmallHurst** · #71 08-14-2009, 04:37 PM

I read about this when I was looking at my setup : Hensley Arrow

I have the Reese Trunnion Bar Weight distribution setup with the Dual Cam sway control. It has worked great for me!

Reese Products

**Canuck** · #72 08-15-2009, 02:56 AM

Sorry for not posting the link, thanks for the follow up Rusty.

Paul

CamarosRus · #73 10-21-2009, 10:59 PM

Wanting to improve my rachet strap tie down system for 69/70 Camaros.........

1) I'd like to convert my rachet handles to having snap hooks on one end to hook directly to D-ring or tie down point of trailer floor. Do YOU do this or see it done commonly ????

2) I've seen or been told where many secure front of car by going between lower control arm and frame with axle strap, then grabbing both metal ends and pulling with rachet strap in X pattern, OR straight.

This allows suspension to move up/down in trailer, correct. Any pros/cons here ???

When I had my drag car many years ago, I anchored into factory subframe hole and pulled front suspension down.

Other than potentially scratching painted frame, why is this practice not being done more.

Thanks for the education

ORIGLS6 · #74 10-21-2009, 11:15 PM

I've always preferred to cross my tie-downs. Common sense tells me the car has less chance of shifting side-to-side in a mishap of any kind.
As far as hooking to the suspension vs the body that's a whole other can of worms. My Nova is currently in my trailer and I have the front straps hooked to the frame and the rear ones to the axle! Duh!

(actually there's a reason for it but the explanation takes too long.

)

jeff morocco · #75 10-22-2009, 12:57 AM

i never tie the straps to the chassis. i also use the axle straps around the control arms and around the rear axle. and of course in an "X" pattern for the reason Dennis said. going directly to the frame , you could possibly either break the strap or the hook could damage the hole that you're in and that would not be good. i like to let the car "float" if you will, and the straps will never move.

CamarosRus · #76 10-22-2009, 01:30 AM

Not arguing here.......just stating my past experience and wanting to learn.

When I had the #27 ZL-1 and my later C/SM 69 Drag Car on open car trailer, I used factory sub frame oblong holes to pull car down and NOT let car float. Traveled many miles back and forth while racing Div 6, NHRA and never had a problem. Went around axle in back.

Now with the restored/show cars most everyone says to let car float and secure around lower control arm.

LZDick has reported an incident towing Larry G's 70 Z where lower control arm cut strap.......

I'm wondering if either way is "OK" or is their a distinct right and wrong here ?????

Also, why doesnt anyone use basket straps around front/rear wheels tieing down to E-track on floor. I suspect, its just too difficult or awkward to get straps, rachets, etc in place and work the rachet ?????????

Thanks for YOUR input!!!!

**Bill Rose** · #77 10-22-2009, 02:06 AM

The front lower control arms can and do cut thru the straps. I use 18" long straps, with O-rings on the ends. Then strap that to the d-rings with rachets. Then when the 18" long piece starts cutting thru, I trash it and get new ones. They last me a couple years, so it's no big expense. The rears last forever, because there's nothing sharp. I don't use the X pattern. My d-rings are splayed out a bit, and I've never had a problem with side to side movement.

Chateau Slate 66 · #78 10-22-2009, 02:23 AM

I think the basket straps hold the most securely and do not allow the car to shift around, but they are cumbersome to install.

I prefer the t-hook straps that towing companies use inserted into the factory frame slots. They won't damage the outside surface or elongate the hole and are very secure. I always strap in an X pattern as well. Otherwise I have had the vehicle walk around quite a bit.

CamarosRus · #79 10-22-2009, 03:25 AM

Andy, I understand the T-hook into the factory slot.....

but if pulling from left to right,(X-crossing) how could you not put some of that metal across painted frame and mess up the finish????

Chateau Slate 66 · #80 10-22-2009, 05:58 AM

Maybe it is different since I am dealing with a full frame car, but I hook them in the front frame roughly under the A-pillar and they angle down to the trailer surface (D-ring) and do not contact any other part of the car.

I do use axle straps in the rear just out of laziness, but would prefer to use wheel straps (baskets).

Disclaimer... my car is "nice" but NOT a show car.

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