Using Heavy Duty Tow Straps For Haul Truck and Excavators

Have you ever found yourself battling with an excavator or dump truck stuck in deep mud or soft soil? It can feel like an insurmountable challenge, leaving you frustrated and anxious about downtime and productivity loss. 

Everyone has their own approach to handling such situations, but this blog will outline our recommended methods utilizing heavy duty tow straps.

Traction boards are essential tools providing added traction for vehicles stuck in challenging terrains like sand, snow, mud, and more. These boards offer a reliable solution to help vehicles regain traction and get unstuck in various scenarios. 

Here are some key points about using traction boards

Functionality:

Traction boards work by providing a surface for the vehicle's tires to grip onto, allowing them to move forward and escape from being stuck. Placing the boards under the spinning tires and slowly applying the throttle can help the vehicle gain traction and maneuver to safer ground.

Versatility:

Traction boards are versatile tools that can be used for a wide range of vehicles, from regular cars to body-on-frame overlanders. They come in rigid or flexible designs, making them suitable for different recovery situations and terrains.

Compact and Portable:

Traction boards are compact and easy to transport, allowing users to carry them conveniently in their vehicles. Their compact dimensions make them practical for off-road adventures and emergencies where traction assistance is needed.

Additional Tips:

When using traction boards, it is important to ensure that the small, angled cleats face the vehicle's tires for optimal traction. Also, paying attention to the "This Side Up" markings to face the direction of movement is crucial for effective use. Airing down the tires can further enhance traction by increasing the tire's footprint and spreading the vehicle's weight over a larger surface area.

When towing heavy-duty vehicles, using quality shackles is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, high-quality shackles are designed to withstand the immense forces and stresses involved in towing heavy loads, ensuring they do not fail under pressure. This added strength and durability provide a crucial safety factor, preventing accidents and damage that could result from using inferior or substandard shackles. 

Secondly, quality shackles help ensure a secure connection between the tow strap and the vehicle being towed. A secure connection is essential to prevent the strap from coming loose during towing, which could lead to dangerous situations, accidents, or damage to the vehicles involved. 

By investing in quality shackles, you not only enhance safety but also protect your vehicles and equipment, making towing operations more reliable and efficient

The safety standards for shackles used on heavy-duty vehicles include several key guidelines:

Working Load Limit (WLL): 

It is crucial not to exceed the working load limit specified for the shackles. This limit indicates the maximum weight the shackle can safely handle without risking failure or accidents.

Avoid Shock Loading: 

Shackles should not be subjected to sudden or abrupt loads, known as shock loading, as this can lead to failures and accidents. It is essential to apply loads gradually and consistently.

Proper Loading Orientation: 

The load should be applied in line with the shackle to ensure optimal strength and safety. Side loading should be avoided, especially with "D" shaped shackles, as they are designed for in-line tension.

Inspection and Maintenance: 

Regularly inspect shackles for wear, deformation, and damage before each use. Any signs of wear, corrosion, or deformation should prompt immediate replacement to maintain safety standards.

Correct Installation: 

Ensure that shackles are properly installed, with pins securely engaged and tightened. Following manufacturer guidelines for installation and maintenance is crucial for safe usage.