What is the Difference Between Coiled Safety Cables and Straight Safety Cables

Updated 01/28/2011 | Published 01/27/2011

Products Featured in This Question

RoadMaster 68" Single Hook, Coiled Safety Cables - 6,000 lbs

(649)

$65.96

Roadmaster StowMaster Tow Bar - Coupler Style for 2" Ball - Car Mount - 6,000 lbs

(148)

$960.00

Roadmaster 64" Single Hook, Straight Safety Cables - 8,000 lbs

(349)

$62.43

Question:

Does it make a difference wether you have a coiled cable versus a straight cable? Which do you recommend?

asked by: James G

Expert Reply:

The difference between coiled safety cables like # RM-643, and straight cables like # RM-645, other than the design, is the applications for which you would use each. For example, some tow bars, like # RM-422, have built in safety cable channels which would ideally work with straight cables. The channels hold the coils up so that they do not get caught on anything or drag on the ground. So for a tow bar with built-in channels, I recommend straight cables.

Coiled safety cables are best used on tow bars, like # RM-501, that do not have safety cable channels. The tension provided by the coils help keep the cables from hanging down and getting tangled on something or dragging on the ground. For a tow bar without built-in channels, I recommend coiled cables.

A third option would be a tow bar that has cables already built in, like the RoadMaster Sterling All Terrain Tow Bar, # RM-576. This tow bar has built-in channels and it comes with straight safety cables. It also has a 6-Way wiring harness routed through it. I have included a link to the installation details for reference.

I have also included a link to our Tow Bar FAQ article that contains a comparison chart of the different tow bars we offer, what features each has, and what base plates they are compatible with.

expert reply by: Michael H