Dumb Recovery Strap Question

[greytandy]

With just a simple recovery strap (loops on both ends), how does one attach it to two vehicles if both vehicles have only closed towing hooks? One end is easy since you can loop the strap through it's own loop, but the other end? It would seem I'd need a D shackle or something, but isn't that a no-no? Does my question make sense? Thanks.

 

[WES1977]

i don't know how else you would do it.

 

[greytandy]

Thanks. Out of what catalog/website did you get that D shackle setup?

 

[IBCRUSN]

This is the least expensive D rings I found that have a good WLL (working Load Limit)

D Rings

 

[WES1977]

This is the least expensive D rings I found that have a good WLL (working Load Limit)

D Rings

that's pretty cheap

 

[IBCRUSN]

it took me a while to find them but even with UPS ground they are the most competitive prices and still have the capacity that we look for.

 

[Heffenoche]

I've gotten 3/4" WLL 6.5 ton shackels @ Northern Tool for $10 each. If you have one in your area it you can even save on the shipping

 

[Rich]

With just a simple recovery strap (loops on both ends), how does one attach it to two vehicles if both vehicles have only closed towing hooks?...

Learn how to tie a bowline knot.

 

[topend yobbo]

that picture is of a BOW shackle not a D shackle.

 

[e9999]

a lot of hardware store will have them

even our local OSH does...

 

[IBCRUSN]

Make certain that the hardware store shackles have the WLL cast into them. I found that several local stores carried 3/4" shackles but nothing cast into them to say what their load limit was. If it's not cast in the unit don't waste your money, better to spend a few more $$ on a quality product. Hell, I won't hook my truck up to another if they are using shackles with no info cast in them. I'm not taking the chance of being on the receiving end of a 6lb. bullet heading towards me.

 

[firetruck41]

Learn how to tie a bowline knot.

You just reduced the breaking strength of your strap to 60-70% of original . Not sure how much worse it would be with a flat strap.

 

[WES1977]

I found an article on that accident. The bumper on the other vehicle broke. The guy was grazed be the shackle and knocked out. He had to be taken off in a helicopter. The jolt of the break of the other bumper saved his life. He's head went forward out of the direct path.

I have been using chains after seeing that pic.

 

[TEPUI]

One end is easy since you can loop the strap through it's own loop, but the other end?

Looping the strap through its own loop could make it very hard to untie if the pulling forces make it tight.

 

[TEPUI]

I have been using chains after seeing that pic.

What type of chains? Never seen that...

 

[Rich]

You just reduced the breaking strength of your strap to 60-70% of original . Not sure how much worse it would be with a flat strap.

Yep, all knots reduce the tensile strength of the rope or strap. So use a strap that is strong enough even with a knot. Not to hard to figure out.

 

[WES1977]

What type of chains? Never seen that...

I got a pretty big chain from harbor freight. Not sure of the strength of it. but it hasn't broken yet. I usally carry both a chain and strap.

 

[Mace]

When chains snap they do a lot more damage than that pic..

I HATE using chains...

 

[WES1977]

When chains snap they do a lot more damage than that pic..

I HATE using chains...

Ok, so your saying chains stretch?

 

[7P's]

Chains will break of course but I've never broke one or seen one break. They are very unforgiving if the hooks are attached wrong or attached to "flimsy" metal. I personally wouldn't use a chain of less than 70 grade and they aren't cheap. IMO Straps with shackles are far easier to use, cheaper and usually cause less damage if secured in an "unconventional" manner.