Properly Rated Tie Down Straps to Secure 5000 lb Tractor/Backhoe to Trailer

Updated 05/02/2012 | Published 04/30/2012

Products Featured in This Question

Erickson Re-Tractable Ratchet Straps w/ Push Button Releases - 2" x 6' - 1,333 lbs - Qty 2

(1298)

$54.78

Erickson Ratchet Tie-Down Strap w/ Strap Wrapper and Double J-Hooks - 2" x 27' - 3,300 lbs

(142)

$26.56

Question:

I have a compact tractor with a loader and backhoe that I transport occasionally on a 16 foot trailer. The total weight of the tractor with the loader and backhoe is approx. 5000 lbs. I need 4 tie downs...will the 34414 straps work for this application?

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

To determine the required capacity of the tie down straps used to secure a load, the working load limit of the straps should be considered. The Retractable Ratchet Straps you mention, # 34414 have a 1,333 lb working load limit.

In order to properly secure your tractor, you would need to use 4 of the straps to secure the 5000 lb load, and even then, you only have a few hundred pounds of wiggle room. I would rather see you use straps with a higher capacity strap like the Erickson Ratchet Strap, part # EM69627. This strap has a 3300 lb working load limit, and two of them would offer more than enough capacity to safely secure your tractor to the trailer.

expert reply by: Mike L