I've been using 3/8" Grade 70 transport chain over the diffs and ratcheting binders to secure the trailer to the Jeep. I'm getting too old(I'll be 30 in August) and lazy to climb under a muddy Jeep after the weekend to load it up.

I've been thinking of welding some tabs to the axle tubes to hook ratchet straps with safety latches onto. This way will be much quicker and cleaner. I will not be looping the axles with axle straps first, just hooking onto the tab. I would be using 4 straps in a cross fashion and possibly a fail-safe chain.

I don't want to start a chain/strap war. Just wanted opinions on the tabs.

 

I actually found out the best way (for me) to secure vehicles is to tie every wheel with a ratcheting strap.

I usually put vehicle in gear (or park if auto) and set parking brake. Then use the typical yellow ratcheting straps, put one end toward rear of a tire, go underneath fender, and secure the other end across strap toward front, then tighten, practically I cross the strap on wheel and secure it to the trailer.
It's tough to describe but very easy and "clean" do to, instead of climbing under vehicles, etc., it's similar to the straps used to to secure vehicles on tow dollies.

 

GOTMEAT,

If you are going to tie it to the axles maybe you could try those big J hooks the tow truck drivers use. They are quick and they don't require welding a tab on the axle. Hook two on each axle out near the springs so it's not an unfair load to the middle of the housing.

John

 

Personally, I hate straps....too much of a PITA. I use grade 70 5/16" chain assemblies that I made myself...one assembly for the front and one for the rear. Each assembly connects to two points on the frame and axle with one load binder per corner. I can have my Jeep chained down to the nth degree at 8 points in less than 5 minutes without even rushing. I welded my own tabs on the frame and axle for the chain hooks to easily slip in and out of. No fussing or climbing under the truck and getting dirty. These are the only pics I have handy....

 

Nice Jeep!!!!

 

I had tabs on my rear link mounts to Strap it down. Worked fine.
Changed the rear axle, never added them back, mainly because I hit them alot bent them up. If its the furthest thing sticking out the back of the axle, you will hit them.

 

I've thought that through. I would put them behind the tube or on top(If I can find the room)to keep them out of harm's way. I was thinking about using the same type of rings that are on the trailer so that they have a little give. But, not sure I would like hearing that clanking.

 

Thank you!

 

David,

Ya think Phil would be able to fab you something that would just bolt onto your axle? Something like two flanged halves that bolt together around the tube. I'm tired of the climbing under to wrap the axle too.

 

I'm sure he could do it, but that sounds awful bulky. I have located some spots on the axle that would work with a welded tab or ring, but I am concerned about safety. Going over the axle with the chain leaves a far greater safety margin.

 

'Cause I'd want that tab to be on the same plane that the hold downs would be on.
So it can't be on top.
I think Rings would also be loud.

 

Ok, ok, I see your rig now. Definitely straps are NOT a good idea, I thought it was a standard base Jeep.

Nice Jeep too !!!!!!!

Reminds me of many, many years ago I saw some races with a CJ5 of similar color named Captain America and the cartoon hero painted on hood, it was very cool.

 

I use something similiar to this then just hook my strap to it. Nice and long and keeps you out from under the muddy truck

http://www.awdirect.com/catalog.cfm?...ion&linkid=433

 

Those were mentioned earlier, but I like a full engagement. I still wouldn't get that with tabs, but it makes me feel better that the tab would be welded.

 

I welded big machine lifting eye's to my rear axle tube after cutting off the threads. I use a custom length pair of 3/8" Transport grade chains W/ safety hooks on both ends...I cross em and it put my landcruiser right where I want it every time....It is simple enough my wife or 7 year old can hook and unhook them for me and I don't even have to get out of the driver seat then pull a head, tighten up the chains..stall it in gear, and ratchet the front to keep em tight.....Had this system for 6 years now works great.