Are ratchet straps always loose? 3 fastening tips 90% of people ignore

1. Ratchet Strap Tightening Techniques

Technique 1: Preload Control (Critical!)

Proper Operation:

When tightening for the first time, use your full body weight to press down on the ratchet handle (you should hear a "click" sound at least three times).

Pat the strap with your hands to remove any loose fibers (especially with nylon straps).

Common Mistakes:

Tightening solely with arm strength (insufficient force).

Ignoring the strap's rebound (it will inevitably loosen due to transport vibrations).

Technique 2: Anti-Slip Overlapping Method

Steps:

Fold the free end back 30cm to form a double strap.

Thread the double strap through the ratchet teeth (not a single layer!).

Tighten again to create a friction lock at the overlap.

Principle: Double strap thickness increases the grip of the teeth, preventing slippage due to vibrations.

Technique 3: Angle Correction

Golden Angle: Maintain the angle between the strap and the cargo. 45-60°

Angle too small → Insufficient lateral force

Angle too large → Dispersion of longitudinal pressure

Hazardous Case:

When securing steel pipes at right angles, 90% of loosening incidents are caused by incorrect angles.

Additional: 3-second inspection method

Must-do after each tightening:

Manually move the strap; there should be no slippage.

Check that the ratchet teeth are fully engaged (≤ 2 teeth exposed).

Shake the cargo; there should be no abnormal movement of the strap.

2. Maintenance and storage tips for ratchet straps

Post-Use Cleaning Tips

1. Removal of Mud and Sand

How to:

Remove surface sand and gravel (especially the ratchet teeth) with a stiff brush.

Blow out impurities in gaps with a high-pressure air gun (available at auto repair shops).

2. Drying

Correct Method:

Hang in the shade to dry (avoid direct sunlight! UV rays accelerate fiber aging).

If in urgent need, use compressed air to dry out internal moisture.

3. Functional Inspection

Self-Checklist:

No cuts or burns on the belt (damage exceeding 3mm is considered scrap).

Ratchet spring rebounds firmly.

Hook free of deformation or cracks.

Five Elements of Professional Storage

1. Hanging Storage

Optimal Solution:

Hang on a dedicated rack (maintain natural extension).

Do not fold or press (this can cause fiber memory deformation).

2. Environmental Control

Ideal Parameters:

Temperature: -10°C to 40°C

Humidity: <60% (use desiccant to prevent mold).

Keep away from ozone sources (such as motor rooms).

3. Rust Prevention

Metal Part Maintenance:

Apply a spray gun to the ratchet shaft. Lubricate with silicone grease (twice a year)

Apply WD-40 rust inhibitor to the springs

4. Pressure Release

Before long-term storage:

Fully loosen the ratchet to its initial position

Manually adjust the gear plate 10 times to prevent sticking

5. Classification and Labeling

Efficient Management Method:

Classify by load capacity (yellow 5T/red 3T/green 1T)

Mark the label with the date of last use

3. Ratchet Tie-Down Straps FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: Can it be used in the rain/at the beach?

Protective measures:

Choose polyester material (corrosion-resistant)

Rinse with fresh water after use and apply silicone grease to prevent rust

Q2: What are the signs of a breakage?

Warning signs:

Fuzzing > 3mm on the belt

Ratchet teeth worn more than 50%

Deformed/cracked metal hook

Q3: How to properly clean it?

Steps:

Remove dirt and sand with a stiff brush

Wash with neutral detergent

Dry in the shade (avoid direct sunlight)

Q4: How to store it when not in use for an extended period?

Golden rules:

Completely loosen the ratchet

Hang in a dry environment

Apply silicone grease to metal parts