How to Use a Ratchet Strap - Tips and Tricks!

[@Chuck_Carolina]

Jay, a couple of points from a truck driver: 1) You want a minimum of two revolutions of strap wrapped around the drum - if the strap gets wet it can slip if the load shifts without two revolutions on the drum. 2) That loose flapping tail of the strap is called a dog ear and it is against the law. Very dangerous and is considered an unsecure load. What you showed is going to be left up to interpretation by law enforcement. If I was to use that method, I would still take a zip tie and secure it back onto the strap - zip ties are cheap. 3) The C-clamp - Negative! That would be considered an attachment point and is regulated bylaw - also the carabiner, get it gone. DOT regulates the equipment to be used to secure a load, and climbing equipment is not in the book for securing loads regardless of it weight rating. You take an authorized strap and attach it straight to an authorized attachment point. The biggest take away I want you and your viewers to take away from this is - don't get creative when securing a load. Even those two cleaver chaps at the home improvement store - those straps must be rated. If they are doing this job for hire - they are held to the same laws as a truck driver is with the securement of that load. They are required to have clearly marked load ratings on the straps they use. If you are doing business in commerce you are held to all the laws when it comes to load securement. Even private Joe hauling his motor cycle or race car needs to step up their game and use rated straps with proper attachment points that are also rated for their needs. Good straps are not that much more in price, and it lets you and everyone else know the load is secure. 4) Check your load in the first 100 miles after you secured it down and start on a trip - it is not only smart to do, but is required by law. Check the load every time you stop after that. I hauled flat beds for a number of years and loading and unloading was my Zen time. I worked where I even got to load and unload most of what I hauled. Even tarping an un-tarping a load became an art form for me. Most drivers want to drop and hook - not me. I want to control every aspect of a load I can - and get paid for it too.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

This is GREAT information Chuck Howard. Thanks for sharing with our viewer family. And also, thanks for being one of those who help transport items to those who need them. Best to you! DFJ

[@iceroadtrucker2008]

minimum of two revolutions of strap wrapped around the drum... I understand what you said but I don't understand how to do it. Any tips? TY, Michael

[@celtjim994]

@@iceroadtrucker2008 Leave more strap between the ratchet and the other hook when you first start ratcheting so that it has to rotate at least twice before tightening up.

[@Shotleythinktank]

Hey Jay! When you get tired of chain binders & tarp’n, but still want to be in the Zen of control, haul fuel! Pays way better!

[@ThePastaManCan]

@@DirtFarmerJay Maybe you should reupload cause this can be dangerous information? guy I work with used this and im sure other people are breaking the law because of this video.

[@fuyu5979]

Kudos! Finally found practical n informative tutorial on HOW TO properly use the ratchet straps !!! For YEARS tried unsuccessfully using these rachet systems ! Either straps were still to LOOSE or ended up in a WAD!!! Kudos ur step by step instructions was easy to follow. Now I'm able to SUCCESSFULLY n SAFELY tie down my front reel mower n yard shredder to transport to maintenance shop. New subscriber because of this vid. Anticipating more helpful n informative uploads. Peace

[@russellhansen7870]

Thanks Jay! We're the guys from the Lowes. Love your videos. Always learn alot. Glad we could help!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks russell hansen. Great to hear from you guys again. If you have any more great tips like the last one, let me know. [e-mail]. Best, DFJ

[@danlux4954]

That’s what I do.

[@blueticecho5690]

I use them all the time for setting beads on tires wheel barrels, lawn tractors ect.

[@edvaioli7340]

Excellent! All YT videos should be produced this well: good audio, good video, good content. No cheesy graphics, obnoxious music. Straight and to the point. Liked and subscribed.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks Ed Vaioli. And THANKS for subbing. We love to see our viewer family growing every month. Best to you and keep watching and commenting. DFJ

[@darkdelta]

Amen to the cheesy music. I appreciate the channels that forego the hard driving metal music intros. The ones I favor just start with content, no flourish.

[@judet25]

AND NOT AT A RUSH!!!!

[@JParkerAdair]

This was a major help! I’ve seen other videos demonstrating quickly how to thread it, but you took a little more time to show it, and it let me know what I was doing was correct even though it looked off.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad to be of help. We've got some other ratchet strap episodes coming out as well, watch for them! Best, DFJ

[@raysdronevideos8151]

Jay: great video. Good pace and you present in a manner that is easy to follow, yet not condescending to any newbie (like myself) when it comes to securing loads. Appreciate it.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@RVstreet]

I'm another one that has always struggled with these darns crank straps. I especially like the trick on how to secure all the excess strap once the load is secure. That was very kewl. Great job and clear instructions 👍

[@earlbaker3996]

I have been hauling pallets on a flatbed for a sawmill using much bigger straps. I don't do everything that you do. But I really like your tricks. You gave me a education today and I really appreciate your advice.I found it very helpful and entertaining.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks for watching and writing! Best, DFJ

[@Dilipm777]

Great video! The tips you provided are good, and you provided clear instructions. I always get ratchet straps knotted up and end up having to cut them off. Your tips will be helpful moving forward!

[@iceroadtrucker2008]

Thank you Chuck Howard and DFJ! DFJ thank you for the detail in setting up the strap! I use one at work and have no problem operating it but when I have to put it back together I am usually screwed. Your camera work shows how to do it in detail. Thank you for that!

[@troyalger1603]

I've used these for years and never knew about the way to easily loosen the strap. I've always used did it the hard way. I'm glad I checked you out.

[@sw-nk6sf]

As an adult daughter, thank you for teaching me the things my dad never did. God bless you sir

[@matthewwilliam8033]

thank you for making this video help me set it with in seconds. Wish I found your video before the first three. I recommend they watch your video to learn the quick and proper way. Thank you

[@paulcarter2388]

Cut a slit in a piece of garden hose. Great edge protector.

[@geekerati]

Thanks for this one!

[@jacqueslussier2874]

Excellent vidéo thanks , i watched another video on KZbin and the guy recommended interlocking the S shaped anchors together to have a more secure bong .

[@martinmaddox5315]

1. When you hook the two hooks to each other, put the hook of one side inside the hole that is behind the s part of the other hook. This is less likely to pull apart. 2. When I haul one or 2 boards or pieces of plywood, I wrap a strap all the way around the board crossing it under and when I tighten up it cinches the strap tight around the board. I leave the tailgate even with UP with boards longer than the truck bed, when I’m not hauling a lot of boards. I liked your video. I put a shop towel around the touch points of the straps on my ebike to protect the bike. Never never trust bungee cords. They are the number one cause of blindness in young people!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks for watching and commenting Martin Maddox. Best to you, Dirt Farmer Jay

[@TheWally666999]

I suffer a stroke nine years ago, i got my driving license back easily but retrieving the ability to work a ratchet strap again was proving confusing for my stroke affected brain but your post made it simple to understand THANKS A LOT

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad to be of help!

[@emeryrowand2903]

Wow, I have used straps like this for years and feel pretty solid in my capabilities, but still learned a lot. I will be using these tips many times! Thank you!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Wow, thanks emery rowand. A ratcher strap "pro"' with these comments means a lot. Best to you and yours! DFJ

[@melaniebrown3412]

Thank you! I was doing it backwards. Took me 30 minutes to untangle my mess. Wow! These are going to be so handy for camping and securing paddleboards.

[@MRCRUZER19]

I've been using these for years, always confused on how to use them. Now thanks to your video, it was very edicational. I am now a strapping expert. thank you. Dirt Farmer Jay.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad to hear we could help you Rick C. Keep watching and commenting. Best, DFJ

[@guardianmatthew143]

really you was confused on how to use a ratchet strap WOW

[@CC_Marauder]

@@guardianmatthew143 Not everyone can be as learn-id as you be. Guy that uses the iteration of a childs name. Right Matt?

[@tamaragilvin4936]

You are such a good teacher. Heading off to pick up roofing with the grands and ratchets always make me nervous. Especially when being watched! Thanks for giving me confidence!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Go for it! Thanks for the kind words.

[@darkdelta]

I keep my straps in old socks in a 3 gallon bucket in the pick ups tool box. Thanks for posting this, especially the loose end management👍

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks for weighing in Dark Delta. Best to you, DFJ

[@lamnag01]

Thanks for the tie up on loose ends, been driving me nuts for yonks, so clean and simple.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad to help!

[@mrarmy300]

Love your excess strap rolling trick, never seen that one!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

mrarmy300 - glad you like it - it's my personal favorite. We have another episode coming up showing 4 or 5 ways to secure the tail end of the strap - and you can be sure that will be one of them that is featured. Thanks for watching - be sure to subscribe if you haven't already - and check out dirtfarmerjay.com! Best Regards, DFJ

[@mrarmy300]

@@DirtFarmerJay I am now subscribed!

[@roncar1761]

Hi from Portland Oregon! BEST VIDEO OUT OF ALL OF THE ONES THAT I SEEN!!! 👍👍👍 @ 8:00 I will "ASSUME" all truck beds have four or more attachments (upper/lower) points. The natural of my job I have to load equipment on top of other equipment. I place "short straps" on each attachments points so I have a option of using the upper or lower depend on my load. When BORED I will remove the long strap and lube the metal racket and it will work like "butter"! Since I carry about ten or more I found different ways to roll the strap up so it is neat and 90% smaller. They will all fit in a small bag. I bought a roll of velcro from the Dollar Store and cut it to size. The elastic "hair rings" work great too. And play with the strap like a rope using the hook as a hanging point will cost you $0.00!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks for watching and commenting Ron Car. Best to you, DFJ

[@louislandi938]

I’ve made every mistake you mentioned. Wish I saw this years ago! A million thanks!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

You are SO welcome Louis Landi. We try hard to make videos that cover topics people are interested in! Keep watching and commenting!! Best, DFJ

[@geekerati]

Me too, think how smart we are now!😂

[@edymoss3466]

Thanks Jay Have a set of these but always forgot how to use them properly Now I got a video that I can refer to when I have to use them again which is usually twice a year or so

[@lh98]

Good points. When securing a load subjected to winds from highway speeds a single twist in the strap midway helps prevent the humming and strap vibration caused by the air.

[@itonlyhurtswhenilaugh4750]

Right? I remember that tidbit of knowledge from years ago and yet I still see quite often on big rigs the straps flapping and vibrating which can cause other problems in the long haul.

[@fuzzyelm1]

Yes a twist in the strap does it weaken the strength of the strap at all ! The only thing a twist may do is get into the ratchet tumbler if you aren’t paying attention, but if your that stupid you maybe should not be trusted with the task

[@captainkangaroo4301]

Yes that twist to prevent flapping is an old trick I learned as a flatbed truck driver 40 years ago. It’s not necessarily needed on a very low profile load like rebar but it’s important for taller loads.

[@martinschulz9381]

I was going to say the same thing but you did it for me. A twist will eliminate shuttering. It always bugs me when I'm driving down the freeway and I see a strap shuttering.

[@lh98]

@Alan 602 that’s the thing though, that humming and flapping equates to constant movement and possible loosening of the straps which is never a good thing.

[@karynjohnstone1997]

I have watched many but yours has been the easiest. Thank you sooooo much. 😊 I finally feel confident to be able to use Rachet straps .

[@TFDCAPT]

Good tips for those that haven’t figured it out. I formally worked at a auto parts store and often had to train people on how to use them. They should have watched your video. Just as a added tip, you can flip your receiver hitch over and use it as a spot to run strap as a anchor point to keep load from sliding also. Just takes a longer strap. Keep teaching brother. Folks out there need it.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks TFDCAPT. Just gotta ask...are you a fire department captain? If so, thank you so much for serving your fellow man. If you're not, thanks for just being a great human. Best, FDJ

[@TFDCAPT]

I am and very proud of it. Proud to do it.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

TFDCAPT - sorry for the delayed reply. What a great thing to be doing. I bet you love going to work everyday. What a way to live! Thanks for being a part of our viewer family. We have several friends in our community that serve in various Fire Departments. Love those guys and gals. Great people. Best Regards, DFJ

[@kerrygibbs8198]

Good information!! Fyi, I use small zipper pouches to store my straps. Can get them on line or big box home improvement stores.

[@richardmourdock2719]

I've used a 3/4 inch garden hose, cut it about eight inches then slice a groove in it, slap it over the end of the Angle iron on my trailer to avoid any abrasive edge on the strap. Works great. Stays in place while I'm adjusting the straps with minimal , sometimes zero pressure from the overlying strap.

[@wickedmuffin76]

My friend got a few feet of retired firehose and cut it into ~foot long sections (not easy) and uses them for strap/load protection.

[@guermeisterdoodlebug7980]

Yes, and pool noodles can be good protectors, too.

[@Nightsider-xr5lx]

​@@wickedmuffin76fire hose is also good for chain protection. Leave it in hose form, cut into sections and slip over the chain. Chain will not scratch painted surfaces then, if your worried about that.

[@donzimmer4616]

Some great pointers on how to use these straps correctly.

[@davidcoleman6032]

Some great advice there!I've been troubled by ratchet straps for ages ,ended up using rope,now I know how to really use them!Many thanks, you're a great teacher!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks for the compliment David Coleman. I did a lot of public speaking in my career and learned that if it's not engaging, people won't keep listening, Thanks for the imput. Best to you, DFJ

[@guardianmatthew143]

really david you had trouble using ratchet straps DUHHHH

[@davidcoleman6032]

@@guardianmatthew143 Well I'm glad you find them so easy!There's probably something that I can do easily that you haven't got a clue about but then I wouldn't be so childish as to put you down about it on social media!Remember YOU might need help with something some day!

[@pmagnier11]

Nice and clear, thank you. Maybe too long for some but I know there are people out there who will be grateful for the details!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad it was helpful!

[@reedembley5197]

A couple of years ago, I had a couple of the big binder type paperclips laying around. I folded up my excess strap and secured everything with that binder paperclip and it works like a charm. I've used the same two binders for over 2 years and it still works flawlessly.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Reed, I just came across your comment again, and wanted to thank you for this. In fact, we are doing another video shortly mentioning that the job of securing the load is not finished until the strap tail is secured as well. We plan to use your technique as one of the ways to do this and will mention you when we do. Thanks for being a part of our viewer family! Best Regards, DFJ

[@richardgoff6739]

You were able to make this simple and painless, the best video on this subject that I have seen. Good job,

[@kwilson962]

I bought a strap. Having never used one, I tried to follow the directions on the packaging. The first thing I did was get that double roll going, filling up the mechanism quite quickly. Before even watching your video, I somehow stumbled onto your technique to undo the mess. I hopped online and found your video, and I have now avoided other mistakes I would have definitely made. Thanks for the tips and techniques!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

You are very welcome Keith Wilson. Keep watching and commenting! Best to you, DFJ

[@thesymphonyset]

This is the inly video that made the racket straps make sense to me finally. Thank you for explaining each step so clearly.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad it was helpful, Suellen! Best, DFJ

[@tucsonjack3991]

Good stuff. I don't use my straps all that much and when I do I always forget the proper procedures. Thanks !

[@heknows5418]

Don’t we all

[@buzzsayre9412]

Everything works great. Thanks for the tips..Maybe add a storage tip at the end, how to wind them tight together. Great video sir.

[@RobCalhounPGH]

6:55 I drove commercially and trained flatbed drivers on load securement. Whoever told you that was full of it. That is exactly what that pawl is for, and why some have a slight notch for your finger to stay centered. Normally you don't need to manually pull it, but there are occasions you will. Everything else was good advice for the beginner. And I like the tip you showed how to deal with extra strap. I'd normally roll it up and tuck it under the strap on those little ones. In the 2in and 3in straps, you can roll it and tuck it back through the ratchet handle as you close it. One more tip: When feeding the strap through the ratchet, wind the empty ratchet until the reel openings are up and down. Close the ratchet and you can feed the strap from the bottom to the top in one motion. Then start ratcheting. And one thing you forgot, your securements (straps or chains) will normally loosen up as your load settles. If you're going more than a mile or two, stop about five or ten minutes after loading and check your securements to make sure they're still tight.

[@abbeyjane1306]

Project Farm has a great video on ratchet straps. His tests showed a 40 lb tension loss in just 30 seconds. Your advice is spot on. Re-tighten the straps before going too far.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Rob, thanks for weighing in and taking time to share your expertise in such a clear manner. Thanks particularly for your insight on the pawl notch, as well as the feeding tip for the strap when loading the ratchet. The insight about tightening the load again after it settles is GOLDEN - that will show up in another tips video, and we'll be sure to give you credit for it. Thanks again! Best, DFJ

[@jeeper426]

i used to carry some 1" ID PVC pipe that was cut to about 4 inch lengths and cut in half to add radius to whatever i'm going over if it is a hard edge, now i have a trailer that has box rails that have a radiused edge and i wrap the strap around the rail and hook back to the strap webbing itself if i'm unable to reach the tiedown in the bed of the trailer, such as for hauling brush, i also have some commercial straps that are 3 inches wide and are roughly a quarter inch thick, that have the large "V" style hook, and that fits perfectly around the square rail for heavier loads such as big heavy brush, trash, debris etc, light brush gets 3 or 4 of the smaller straps, heavy brush gets 3 of the big heavy "keeper" straps (also listed as "Haybale" straps), definately good information that you have provided in the video, another good way i've done in the past of "policing" up the tag end of the tail is to roll it up, flatten it, and use a small bungee cord thats around 3 or 4 inches long and wrap the tag, then hook it back around the webbing, or strap it to the side of the trailer top rail to keep it from flailing, this also helps when dealing with bulk loads that take up your entire work space in your truck or trailer and makes the tail easier to find, i also tend to do at least one full wrap around the drum on the ratchet strap which helps keep them tighter longer on long trips, as well as making sure you have a good positive lock on the webbing, but do keep in mind, even the big straps will "relax" and stretch over time, so be mindful on long trips to check your tightness at regular intervals, when you stop at a rest stop, or stop for fuel are good times to make sure your straps are still good and tight, also as someone else said, having the ratchets on the drivers side of your truck/trailer is a good reminder and a good early warning that a strap is loosening off, i lost one strap that way on a trip to the dump.... the ONLY time i've ever put the ratchets on the passengers side of the truck, and as you said in the video, you can exert an Alarming amount of force on a ratchet strap, enough to actually break the webbing if its over a hard edge, or if its under a lot of strain and has spent too much time in the weather, i store my straps in an old ammo box with a desiccant pack and a handful of small bungees to secure the tag end of the straps when in use, stay safe out there

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Fox, wow, your message was FULL of great insights and practices. Thanks for taking time to write your thoughts down in such a detailed fashion. There are some great practices in there. We will be making more episodes on best practices submitted by our viewer family members - there's a couple in here that will likely make an appearance. If so, we'll be sure to mention you. Best Regards, DFJ

[@jeeper426]

@@DirtFarmerJay cool glad I could help contribute

[@rosmarypage1851]

Thank you so much for this I am a single Lady of 66 years who has to do a lot of stuff alone so use these straps often and yes I have always had a frustrating time with them but thanks too you not any more

[@theeastman9136]

Thanks man, I have been fumbling with these for a long time; now the light finally shines. 👍🏼

[@troybayers6635]

Thanks for getting right to the point

[@josephburkhalter5105]

Suggestion…if you have a fair distance between the end hook and ratchet and the strap is exposed to the wind, it will flutter like crazy in the wind. A couple of twists in the section under tension will prevent flutter. Learned this from a trucker with ratchet straps used every day. Used the trick in the white bimini straps on my boat. Stops flutter completely. JoeB

[@blauer2551]

Usually a half twist or a fold on the 4” straps

[@LuzRodriguez-lr2sh]

Thank you Sir , you saved my day and hair , I was going crazy and your how to video and tips where of great help.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad I could help, Luz! Best, DFJ

[@jimberkowitz6118]

I love the technique of rolling up the remained of the strap! I always tied the end to something to keep it from blowing around, but your idea is a much better way to secure it. Thanks!

[@ThePastaManCan]

that makes it a noose, dont do it.

[@Nightsider-xr5lx]

You can also fold it up and either tuck it underneath the strap before it fully tensioned or put through the loop on the rachet side (some companies don't sew the strap fully together) and it hold it just fine.

[@DrKazAstro]

That tying up tip at 5.25. I used that today 😄 thanks. Got quite the thrill about such a small thing. Thanks again.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Great, Karen! Glad to have helped. Best, DFJ

[@frenchopen23]

You are the best! Knowledge and personality too. Very good combination. I learned something I've been doing wrong for years. Thank you.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks frenchopen23. I'm glad you found the info helpful. Keep watching and commenting!! Best, DFJ

[@philipoakley5498]

I start with the clasp closed, so I don't have the feed the end back through. Then again, I'm usually doing this for a load (canoe) that's on a roof rack / bars, so the loose end hangs nicely after passing through the slotted bar.

[@luckytrapper7656]

Great tips Jay. I have used ratchet straps for many years now, mainly for securing atv's and side by sides. A tip from me is make sure you have at least one full turn of the strap barrel with the strap when tightening. This way when the suspension of any machine works ( or anything that may flex) it won't loosen the strap on the barrel.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks for the tip Lucky trapper. Best to you! DFJ

[@johndelawder9844]

@@DirtFarmerJay you pop pop pp

[@amyknight8009]

This is the best tutorial for ratchet straps I’ve seen, thank you so much

[@DirtFarmerJay]

You're very welcome!

[@bw3506]

I'd like to add that if your strap will be in free air as you drive ( like over a tall item) it's actually better to have twists in it to keep it from vibrating.

[@Nightsider-xr5lx]

1/2 twist on each side to be exact. Flatbedder who uses the 1/2 twist on anything tall and untarped.

[@MadDogClyde741]

Hi Jay !!! Oh man I’m 68 yrs old and I know one of the facts of life is you learn stuff everyday till you die 👍🏻 You just made my day with this video ! Man ! I used big ones strapping loads down 20 times a day driving tractor trailers. People might never forget how to ride a bicycle no matter what but since I don’t drive anymore, I only use them once in a blue moon and only tie something down on my truck or somebody else’s truck once in a blue moon. And if I haven’t done it in 7 or 8 months I can’t remember at all which way it goes. After about three or four tries, I would finally figure it out. Your idea is unbelievable. Thanks so much and I’ll never forget how to do this. I’ll tell you what….. 75% of the people in this world have no clue how to use a ratchet strap tiedown. If they want to know how to do it the easiest way ever all they Gotta do is “ look up Dirt Farmer “J” on KZbin” 👍🏻 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ You’re The Man !!!

[@PamFurlong]

Great tips. I have a new set for my rv awning tie downs and i am so glad I saw this before using them.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Hey Pam Furlong! Great to hear from you and see that beautiful face again! Best to you!! Maggie

[@judet25]

I love being taught by the older fella's! THANKS SO MUCH SIR!!! i LOVED EVERYMINUTE OF THIS, EVEN IF I NEVER HAVE TO APPLY IT.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

You are very welcome.

[@kikint2686]

I very much appreciate you going over the release of a jammed strap (at the end).

[@DirtFarmerJay]

You are so welcome KikinT. Our goal is to try to answer as many questions/situations that may come up DURING a video so our viewers enjoy the experience and don't have to search for more answers. Best, DFJ

[@tomnovak7731]

You guys are special if you can actually wind too much strap onto the ratchet! 😆 The way they are designed is that as the spool of strap gets to large it forces the ratchet dogs outward so they no longer engage in the teeth on the body. Thus you can't tighten any further. The only time you should have trouble with the strap binding is if it folds over as it goes through the winch.

[@khrenaud]

I've used ratchet straps for many years, yet I learned something. The tip for rolling up the loose end is really good.

[@fpdima]

I use ratchet straps twice a year when I trailer a boat. I always foul them up. Thanks for tips. Hopefully the process will go much smoother this season.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Frank, glad to help, let us know how it goes! Best, DFJ

[@DavidBundrickRealtorDoc]

Thanks for showing us how to unfoul a ratchet tie down strap!!

[@seeouRView]

Who ever knew something as simple as a ratchet strap could be so misunderstood? What I learned from your video: Stop storing the straps with the long end rolled onto the crank; instead, start with the strap separated from the crank. ( I've always tried to avoid pulling the strap all the way out of the crank because I was never quiet sure how it was "supposed" to go back in.) This takes me to what I learned from reading through the comments: As you demonstrated in the video, start with the ratchet arm facing away from the load. Next, close the ratchet arm but be sure the slot is in a position to easily insert the strap through from the load facing side and out the other side. Do not pull too much slack out of the strap, you want at least 2 full revolutions of the strap on the drum. You can put a single twist in the strap to reduce wind noise and strap wear. Use only transportation approved fasteners and fasten points.

[@pinrockie]

Very well said on all aspects, I have learned a few tricks also. Very good teacher ...Thank you

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks!

[@The_Bearded_Lady]

Thanks so much for sharing this. The arm opening thing is helpful for me because I have had multiple TBIs that affect my ability to do/remember simple things like this without some cheat ideas. I am hoping this one will stick for me because I had to haul some stuff last month and it took me like 30mins to remember and get it to work and I was really stressed and embarrassed and mad and that makes it even harder to remember and do it. Anyway, thanks so much for this. I am saving this video!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks for watching and commenting Al Genaro. Sorry to hear about your TBI issues but that fact that you just keep trying until you get it done is really impressive. Best to you as you continue to learn new things. Take care. DFJ

[@alvinharper3269]

Hi Jay. Just discovered you. Excellent video tutorial. I am a new DIYer. I have used ratchet straps a couple of times. Based on what I just learned from your video, I was doing everything wrong. Now I am eagerly looking forward to using my straps again. Thanks.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad it was helpful, Alvin. Thanks for writing! Best, DFJ

[@kellykeefe3610]

Here's a couple of tips from a long time ratchet strap user: Always have some rubber bands on hand, when you are done using your straps, wind the strap end and store it using rubber bands, this will keep them from getting tangled,( Always store the strap and ratchet separately) When transporting PVC pipe or round objects, wrap your strap around the pipe, when you tighten the ratchet, this will cause the strap to tighten around the pipe, and will keep pieces of pipe from getting loose. From time to time apply some WD 40 to your ratchets, this will keep them operating smoothly. If you are transporting for a long time-take a break and check that your straps are still tight and in the same place where you started!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Great info Kelly Keefe! Thanks for sharing with our viewer family. Best to you and thanks for weighing in! Best, DFJ

[@kellykeefe3610]

@@DirtFarmerJay No problem, BTW your advice on purchasing high quality ratchet straps was right on the money. My worst dread was loosing cargo on the road and injuring someone who was behind me!

[@billnelson3605]

I haven't been able to find rubber bands big enough for the purpose, but found a container with 20 10-inch bungee cords in it and they work quite well for my 2-inch straps. Now that I've seen this excellent video, I'm going to try the trick at the end to pull the loop through.

[@dougferrell7047]

Wide bands from grocery store broccoli are good for this purpose

[@Nightsider-xr5lx]

​@@billnelson3605most truck stops as well as tarp/securement shops will have wide rubber bands that can used to keep straps rolled up when not in use. Might be little big for 1" straps but I use them on my 2" and 4" straps. Keeps them from unwinding from driving vibrations while stored. I like to have my straps rolled tight and keep them tight. Always roll straps with the hooks/chain on the outside. The free end will do way less damage then if you throw the hook/chain end and hit someone.

[@martinoamello3017]

The FASCINATING world of the ratchet strap! So exciting....I used to strap refrigerators to the tailgate of my old pickup and book right on through town scaring the crap out of everyone behind me on the freeway.. Never dropped one.. lol

[@spot50]

I have successfully used ratchet straps to seat the bead on tubeless tires as I don't have a compressed air bead seater. A small one for the front tire of a zero turn mower and a medium one for a vehicle or front end tractor tire. It's possible that a large one would work for a rear tractor tire as a lot of squeezing pressure can be created. It's been the cat's meow several times for my situation.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Dean, this is brilliant! We may feature this in an upcoming video and we'll give you credit for it. Any other creative uses for ratchet straps that come to mind? Best, DFJ

[@spot50]

@@DirtFarmerJay Hey thanks! Can't think of any other uses at the moment but will send anything that I come across

[@jackwellerman9492]

Here is another creative use....to "square up" a leaning arbor before securing it with corner supports. Secure the hook of the long strap to the upper corner of the arbor that is leaning away from the center. Secure the hook of the mechanism side to the opposite bottom corner. Connect the straps and begin ratcheting until the leaning corner is pulled back into square. Once squared up, secure top rails with corner supports.

[@timokuusela5794]

Like one commenter already mentioned, always twist the strap that goes cross the load to prevent it vibrating agaist the surface, long journey and the surface is ruined. It does not weaken the strap at all, only knots do. Sometimes (usually...) even professional truckers leave the straps flat and straight. My usual boat transporting trucker once said that those "flat strappers" are the ones with a peanut in the place of brains.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Love it. Indeed, in another video we did, we mentioned that tip, but have a new edition coming out of "best viewer tips" for using ratchet straps. Thanks for writing! Best, DFJ

[@SusieQSydney]

What a thorough explanation of all things relating to ratch tie down straps - thanks for sharing finally ratch straps have become mystified for me and I can unravel my big of wad of straps which basically have become unusable because it was so fun in the first place making all that clicking nose ratcheting it up until it comes time to undo it all! :( Thank for making all us newbies realize how not to wad it and the point is to ratchet the least amount as possible! On top of which I now know how not to lose my purchase moving them on the back of a ute :)

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad to be of help, Sue Ton! Thanks for being a part of our viewer family! Be sure to sub if you haven't already. Best, DFJ

[@blondechineez1948]

No joke Sue, I love to hear the ratchet sound too lol!

[@DAUNTLESSHUGH]

Good job! What was the best explanation that I have come across. They have always been a mystery to me.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Great to hear! Thanks for writing! Best, DFJ

[@kevingareau546]

Thank you, Jay! You helped me to use the spaghetti mess I made when I unpackaged my straps. Also, the tip on how to cinch-secure the excess strap was perfect.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks Kevin Gareau. Glad the video was helpful. Keep watching and commenting. Best, DFJ

[@derekpaterson603]

Some things I knew, some things I did not. Great Video ! Thanks for sharing

[@Cous1nJack]

3:35 start with the handle closed and the slot aligned and it is one movement, no pass back through.

[@frednot809]

Never understood why people insist on passing it back through, Don’t pass it Back through and you can use the tag end of the strap for leverage to tighten. Then when it is time to release the load you grab the tag and rotate the handle to disengage the ratchet, pull the tag end And voila. By passing it back through it is way too difficult to release the strap from the ratchet

[@Cous1nJack]

@@frednot809 because you can pull tight with one hand and your hooks don’t drop off.

[@frednot809]

@@Cous1nJack I can do the same thing without passing it through though. To each their own. I don’t necessarily think either way is wrong. That’s just the way that works easiest for me and that’s how I always train people to do it.

[@johnossendorf9979]

@@frednot809 l'm a pass it through man, have been for 40 years. I teach all the young people to pass it through. How do you keep both ends in tension with one hand while ratcheting with the other hand with out passing it back through ? Only bent or rusty ratchets are a problem to release if they are not overwound. Pulling the slak tight before starting to ratchet is the only way I know of to always avoid overwinding.

[@frednot809]

@@johnossendorf9979 If we can agree that you don’t use the tag and to tighten, the way I do it is leave the ratchet open, Bring the tag and threw one time then pull it toward my load, then simply pinch with my other hand, it allows you more revolutions to tighten some thing because you only have one layer of strap instead of two,You can use the tag end for leverage To tighten a load by just grabbing the end and as you pull up it pushes the ratchet to tighten it. Removal is as simple as opening the ratchet and pulling on the tag end, Unrolls the entire ratchet in one movement. I’m not saying the other way is wrong necessarily. But it’s not for me. I truly find it easiest the way I described

[@ronpaul8872]

Great Video, Thanks. May I offer a suggestion? After feeding the strap through the barrel. Always leave enough slack so when winding strap up allow enough strap to wrap completely over the through hole in the spool. this keeps the strap from slipping bac through the I'm

[@apocalypticblonde2187]

I’ve always struggled with these. Thank you so much for making such a great how-to videos for them!!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks for watching and commenting Apocalyptic Blonde. Best to you, DFJ.

[@1SGPARKER]

Brilliant! If only I had watched this video years ago... Some folks have the inspired ability to see minor complexities, like ratchet straps, and think through to the obvious application of the device. These individuals are less than one-tenth of one percent of the population.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks Bud Parker. We love great viewers like you! Keep the comments coming my friend. Best, DFJ

[@dbowtech6737]

Your a very good instructor, a job well done Jay. Scary as I drive around the country and drivers that don't have their loads securely tied down. Jay here's a teaching point you might also look into is , speed ratings on trailer tires. I see everyone with a 1/2 ton truck pulling a trailer going 85 mph and I know these trailer tires are not rated for those speeds.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

D Bowtech - thanks for the kind words! We enjoy passing on information that helps people be more self-reliant as well as safe. Indeed, there is an amazing amount of badly secured loads on the road every day - and we see our share. Your thoughts on the speed rating of trailer tires is well taken, and we'll do a future episode on that topic and give a nod to you. Thanks for taking time to write! Best, DFJ

[@kartersidhu7744]

Thanks sir I wish I seen this a few weeks ago. I had too much material wound up and too much slack on the load end.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad I could be of help Karter Sidhu. Keep watching and commenting, Best, DFJ

[@GailSingley]

I learned so much about using ratchet straps in this video Jay, thanks so much!!!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks Gail. Coming from a Master Teacher, that means a lot! Give my best to Ron too. DFJ

[@tomnovak7731]

I learned that DFJ is no expert on ratchet straps. It only took about a minute to figure that out! 😆

[@DirtFarmerJay]

@@tomnovak7731 - thanks for taking the time to write and express your opinion. We are ongoing learners and attempt to share what we've learned along the way, as well as pass on great info that our viewer family takes time to send our way. That's one of the things we enjoy about this medium is the conversations, even when someone disagrees with us. Best Regards, DFJ

[@chaseguedry1773]

First time watcher here. Trying to educate myself having just bought my 1st set of straps and knowing nothing at all about them Thank you Jay for some good info. Now to go practice and make sure I understood everything

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Welcome aboard, Chase Guedry. Thanks for watching our video and taking time to write. Best Regards, DFJ

[@GarrisonFall]

Great tips - thank you. You advised to avoid having twists in the strap. I found that straight, flat straps will 'hum' or 'vibrate' loudly when driving on the highway, which is really annoying. I've found that putting a couple of twists in the strap over long lengths will stop the noise completely. As you say though, it's really important to keep any twists out of the ratchet mechanism - they'll quickly jam it up!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks for watching and commenting GarrisonFall. Jay's comment about not having a twist was when rolling up the strap to stow it - making sure that there would not be a twist rolled up that would cause problems when it was being ratcheted on a load. He always puts a twist or two when tying a load down for the exact same reason you sited. Best, Dirt Farmer Maggie

[@Cous1nJack]

Twist the strap but not through the jaw.

[@robgroves2529]

Twisting will also help diminish the vibrations in the strap in the wind.

[@farmervincent8241]

G'day Jay, from down Under! 🇦🇺 Thanks for the vid! The straps easily jam when securing soft loads (eg. Hay, straw, trimmed bushes/branches), where a lot of slack is in play. Sometimes releasing and starting again is enough, but if not, using a pair of straps tightened alternately works well. Thanks also to all who post useful comments! 😁 Great to learn from y'all!! 👍

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Great tip, Farmer Vincent. Great to hear from you there in Australia. I had the chance to visit both Wellington, NZ and Melbourne AU several years ago. Loved the country and the people! Thanks for watching and taking time to write! Best, DFJ

[@harlowjademermaid1882]

😊 thank you soo much! I'm a pretty handy chickie, but these things, sheesh, they have always been an enigma in my family- no one ever knew what tf they were doing. LoL Big ups to you, Good Sir! 👍🏼

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad I could help! Keep watching and commenting. Best, DFJ

[@johncasor9698]

Another Great Video... thank you so much for this video... i have been doing tie downs wrong for years and now i can do it faster and safe... i have struggled with these for years...

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad it helped! Keep watching and commenting John Casor! Best to you, DFJ.

[@eroomjennings]

Jay one thing I would do to avoid Harmonic Vibration in your straps is to twist the straps where wind can cause a terrible vibration.

[@saishyamnilgiri1]

Thank you Sir. You've put your heart and soul into this clip. Nice!!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

My pleasure!

[@jljohnson9438]

I've used the straps for years but just learned some great tips I never thought about. Another use I have discovered for my straps is that when working on a very large woodworking piece like a bed frame, the ratchet straps are a great woodworking clamp for holding pieces together and taking out some warp in boards that are beyond the reach of all but the longest and most expensive woodworking clamps. They also allow you to do more work by yourself when no helpers are available.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Good stuff! Thanks for watching and commenting. Best, DFJ

[@WoyLad]

Pretty nice advice. One super-unknown tip: Rooftop strap-downs are what most are doing these days. Kayaks, canoes, lumber, etc. Many times those nice, neat, flat straps set up a harmonic hum at highway speed that can drive one nuts. Simple cure. Twist the straps a few times on the wind driven side.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks, Rory!

[@LJBevensII]

As an FYI, If you fold closed your handle with the slot facing upward, it is much quicker and easier to feed the loose end strap webbing through the slot, pull slack out and begin ratcheting... No need then to pull one direction and then feed the end back through the handle as it is all ready in place.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Well said, Lonnie. Thanks for writing! Best, DFJ

[@joewade1624]

Thank you so much for that tip I’ve been using them straps for years And I always struggle this will make my life much easier when I use them thank you so much.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Happy to help!

[@gozzman01]

Brilliant!! I always seem to struggle with these, as well. Not anymore!! Keep up the great videos!

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks for watching and commenting such kind words. Glad we could help. Keep watching Scott LaMantia! Viewers like you are priceless! Best, DFJ

[@michaelchehak990]

thanks J theses straps have always been a nightmare to me this vid is a BIG help thank you

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Glad we could help! Keep watching and commenting MICHAEL SHEHAK. Best, DFJ

[@jimhawk8504]

I found after rolling up extra strapping, I can use velcro rap to hold it all together as well. Just another idea.

[@ernestphaneuf4610]

0

[@dewarner12]

This video was a great review of some of the info. I had forgotten about using ratchet straps and some new info.and tips. Thanks -

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Thanks for watching!

[@AztecWarrior69_69]

Here is a tip for you. Don't insert the strap the way you are doing it with the lever open. You should ratchet the drum until the slot is perpendicular to the automatic pawl/spring catch/release tab, then you shut the lever. This makes it so you can lace the strap through the drum and not have to thread it back through the lever. Two actions instead of three. Makes it easier when it is cold and with gloves on.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Aztec Warrior - thanks! We've had other viewers write in and counsel the same thing. I'm adopting your way and will feature it in an upcoming episode. Thanks for watching, and taking time to write - best regards, DFJ

[@JBullock54]

Great tip! What do you think of this guy’s way of inserting the strap? kzbin.info/www/bejne/jIi1lHuXrNSnqJY

[@ridgefieldjohn9041]

@@DirtFarmerJay Something I was tought never hook two straps together with the two open hooks rather hook one open to the closed eye on the other.

[@jeffkimble8857]

Just fyi, your ratchet strap is not at its full strength without at least 3 complete turns around the drum. You are creating a tensionless anchor by rotating the strap around the drum.

[@AztecWarrior69_69]

@@jeffkimble8857 who is?

[@joerivs80]

As a flatbed truck driver, I’d say you’re not wrapping enough strap around the barrel of the ratchet. The strength of the hold doesn’t come from the small hooks and small plate. It comes from the wrap mostly. The more wraps you can get, the better. Leave a little slack, don’t tug tight before ratcheting. Get a good 2-3 wraps around the barrel. That won’t cause jamming and will hold more securely. Also, if you don’t want your strap to flutter in the wind, put one half rotation on one side, flat across the top, and one half rotation on the other side with feeding the strap through the barrel flat. Still, have 2-3 wraps around the barrel. This will not only be a stronger hold than shown here, but it’ll prevent the strap from fluttering in the wind. Hope this helps.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Incognito Burrito (love the screen name!), thanks for writing. This is good stuff. Watch for another video where this information will be incorporated. Best Regards, DFJ

[@jimbo23mattingly]

I you start with rachect closed you dont need to feed it back through the 2nd time.

[@johnossendorf9979]

I was going to point that out too. I have always feed the strap though with the ratchet closed.

[@fantasticsound2085]

Count me in on this comment. The most common misuse of a ratchet strap is to feed it with the handle in the open position. I hover between cringing and laughing at people who struggle to put the strap back through the handle when there's no reason you should have to do so in the first place.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Jim Carris, John Ossendorf, and fantasticsound - great insight all of you. I'm so used to doing it that way, that it's become my practice and I don't have any problem threading the strap. Having said that, I've begun work on changing the habit to the way you mentioned as it simply is better and simpler. We have another best tips video coming out (we have had so many people weigh in on this topic with some really great practices). I'll make sure to own up to the misstep and point out the better way. Thanks all for taking time to write! Best Regards, DFJ

[@brighterredneckideas8021]

@@DirtFarmerJay You actually don't have to feed it back through at all. Been using straps probably since they started making them and I never feed mine back for the return trip toward the starting anchor point. I always simply push the strap through leaving the tail toward the anchor point that's holding the ratchet. After I pull the strap through and pull as tight as I can towards the ratchet side, I just start ratcheting and it tightens as tight as a drum. Just make sure the tail is on top, not underneath. Doing it this way your not near as likely to crowd and bind the ratchet. It will release every time. It's essentially the same thing. It just helps keeps everything straight.

[@DirtFarmerJay]

@@brighterredneckideas8021 Well said, I've adopted this approach as well because of the feedback and insight of several viewers like you. We'll be updating to this approach in another video coming out shortly. Thanks for taking time to write! Best, DFJ

[@jessica_lewis]

Thank you so much Farmer Jay!!! I am so excited to finally know how to use my straps when hauling things in my little truck! Also your extra tips are going to be so helpful as well! Thanks again!😃. Jessica in NC

[@DirtFarmerJay]

Happy to help!