Strapping a car securely onto a trailer demands precision and careful execution, ensuring both the safety of the vehicle and those around you during transport. This guide will walk you through the essential steps, emphasizing the best practices for a safe and successful haul.
Understanding the Importance of Proper Securing
Improperly secured vehicles can shift, break free, or even cause trailer instability, leading to accidents and property damage. Therefore, investing the time and effort to learn and implement the correct techniques is paramount. This isn’t just about protecting your car; it’s about safeguarding yourself and others on the road. Consistent and reliable methods are key to successful towing.
Essential Equipment for Car Transport
Before you even think about loading the car onto the trailer, ensure you have the right tools and equipment. Using inferior or damaged components is a recipe for disaster. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials:
- Trailer: A trailer specifically designed for hauling vehicles. Ensure it has adequate weight capacity and functioning brakes. Check trailer brakes before each trip.
- Straps or Chains: High-quality ratchet straps or transport chains with a sufficient Working Load Limit (WLL). WLL is crucial – never exceed it.
- Axle Straps/Wheel Nets: These secure the vehicle by wrapping around the tires or axles, providing a secure anchor point.
- D-Rings/Anchor Points: Securely mounted D-rings or anchor points on the trailer.
- Wheel Chocks: To prevent the car from rolling while being secured.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from abrasions and dirt.
- Flashlight/Headlamp: Essential for working in low-light conditions.
- Measuring Tape: To ensure even strap placement and tension.
Step-by-Step Guide to Strapping Your Car
This detailed guide provides a step-by-step process for safely strapping your car to the trailer. Adherence to these steps is crucial for a successful and safe transport.
1. Loading the Vehicle onto the Trailer
- Position the trailer on a level surface. Use wheel chocks under the trailer wheels to prevent movement.
- Use ramps to carefully drive the vehicle onto the trailer. Ensure the ramps are securely attached and rated for the vehicle’s weight.
- Center the vehicle on the trailer. Distribute the weight evenly to maintain trailer stability. A slight bias towards the front is generally recommended, consult your trailer manual.
- Apply the vehicle’s parking brake. This will prevent the car from rolling during the securing process.
2. Choosing Your Securing Method
The method you choose depends on your preference, the type of vehicle, and the available anchor points. Common methods include:
- Axle Straps: Wrap around the axles (suspension components) or chassis. This is a direct and robust method.
- Wheel Nets: Encircle each tire with a net secured to the trailer. This is a preferred method for vehicles with low ground clearance, avoiding contact with the body.
- Through-the-Wheel Straps: These straps pass through the wheel itself and are secured to the trailer.
Choose the method that best suits your vehicle and your experience level.
3. Attaching the Straps or Chains
- Attach the axle straps or wheel nets to the designated anchor points on the trailer. Ensure the straps are not twisted or kinked.
- Position the straps so they pull diagonally towards the center of the trailer. This prevents the car from shifting forward, backward, or sideways.
- Avoid contact with brake lines, fuel lines, or any other vulnerable components. Straps rubbing against these components can cause damage.
- If using chains, use chain binders to tighten them securely. Ensure the binders are properly engaged and locked.
4. Tightening the Straps
- Tighten the straps evenly, starting with opposing corners. This ensures balanced tension and prevents the car from shifting during tightening.
- Use ratchet straps to tighten the straps securely. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the vehicle’s suspension. A moderate, firm tension is ideal.
- Regularly check the straps for tightness, especially during the first few miles of your journey. Straps can loosen as the vehicle settles.
5. Final Checks and Precautions
- Double-check all straps and anchor points for security. Ensure nothing is loose or at risk of coming undone.
- Ensure the car’s parking brake is engaged.
- Check the lights on the trailer to ensure they are functioning correctly.
- Consult your trailer manual for specific recommendations regarding tie-down placement and securing methods.
- Plan your route and drive defensively. Avoid sudden stops and sharp turns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
These FAQs address common concerns and provide additional insights into securing a car on a trailer.
FAQ 1: What is the minimum Working Load Limit (WLL) I need for my straps?
The WLL needed depends on the weight of the vehicle. As a general rule, the combined WLL of all straps should exceed the vehicle’s weight. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and choose straps with a higher WLL than you think you need. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for weight information.
FAQ 2: Can I use regular ratchet straps or do I need special “car hauler” straps?
While regular ratchet straps can be used, car hauler straps or transport chains are highly recommended because they are specifically designed for securing vehicles and often have a higher WLL and more durable construction. Their design also prevents hook dislodgement.
FAQ 3: Where are the best places to attach straps to my car?
The best attachment points are typically the axles, suspension components, or designated tie-down points on the chassis. Avoid attaching straps to the body panels, bumpers, or other non-structural components. Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for recommended tie-down locations.
FAQ 4: How often should I check the straps during my trip?
Check the straps before you start your trip and then again after the first 50 miles. After that, check them at every stop or every few hours, whichever comes first. Straps can loosen due to vibration and shifting during transit.
FAQ 5: What if I don’t have enough anchor points on my trailer?
You may need to install additional D-rings or anchor points. These should be professionally welded to the trailer frame to ensure they are strong enough to withstand the forces of towing. Never weld anchor points yourself unless you are a qualified welder.
FAQ 6: Can I use chains instead of straps?
Yes, chains are a viable alternative to straps, especially for heavier vehicles or rough terrain. However, chains require chain binders to tighten them, and it’s critical to use grade 70 transport chain or higher. Straps are generally easier to handle and less likely to damage the vehicle’s finish.
FAQ 7: Is it necessary to use wheel chocks?
Yes, wheel chocks are highly recommended to prevent the car from rolling while you are securing it. They provide an extra layer of safety, especially when working on uneven surfaces.
FAQ 8: What should I do if a strap breaks during transit?
If a strap breaks, immediately pull over to a safe location and assess the situation. Replace the broken strap with a new one of equal or higher WLL. Retighten all straps and continue your journey.
FAQ 9: Can I transport a car with a flat tire on a trailer?
It’s generally not recommended to transport a car with a flat tire. The flat tire can cause uneven weight distribution and make the car more unstable. Consider replacing the tire or using a dolly to lift the flat tire off the ground.
FAQ 10: How can I prevent damage to my car’s paint while using straps?
Use soft straps or pads to protect the paint from abrasion. You can also wrap the straps with towels or blankets. Avoid rubbing the straps against the paint during tightening.
FAQ 11: Is it legal to transport a car on a trailer without proper securing?
No, it is illegal to transport a car on a trailer without proper securing. Laws vary by state, but all states require that cargo be securely fastened to prevent it from shifting or falling off during transit. Violations can result in fines, penalties, and even liability for accidents caused by unsecured cargo.
FAQ 12: What kind of trailer is best for hauling a car?
The best type of trailer for hauling a car depends on the vehicle’s size and weight. A flatbed trailer with ramps is a common choice. Enclosed trailers offer greater protection from the elements and theft. Always ensure the trailer has a sufficient weight capacity and properly functioning brakes. Consider both open and enclosed trailers based on your needs.