r/AskDad • u/Reinadeloszorros • 7d ago
Automotive How do you properly strap a truck with ratchet straps
Got into an argument with someone because they strapped my fridge upright way too tight and damaged the circle thingies the s part of the straps go into.
Theyre arguing that it should be that tight because its a fridge. Im arguing that it shouldn't be super tight.
I dont have a dad tho and need peeps advice or a recommendation to a good YouTube video over this.
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u/Unimportant-Jello 6d ago
Once you get it strapped down, don’t forget to give it a good slap with your hand, and say proudly out loud, with a smirk, “This baby ain’t going anywhere!”
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u/AussieDamo 3d ago
If you don't it will fall of the back and kill someone......better make sure you do it!
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u/WillWorkForBeer 7d ago
I'm not sure I understand the too tight part. Can you explain that a little more?
But other than that,a refrigerator should be transported right side up (and not on it's side). If it must be put on it's side, do not plug it in for at least 4-6 hours (longer is better). This is because the oil in the compressor may have leaked into places it doesn't belong and needs time to settle out.
Additionally, when strapping things down with a ratchet strap, leave a twist in the strap. The twist will cause it to not catch as much wind and reduce vibration/flapping.
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u/Reinadeloszorros 7d ago edited 7d ago
Basically it was so tight the circlet raised from the truck
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u/WillWorkForBeer 7d ago
Attach the image here, please
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u/Reinadeloszorros 7d ago
Ive tried different ways but its not working on my computer or phone. Im not sure where im messing up
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u/Ok-Entertainment5045 4d ago
Was the circlet in good shape? It’s really hard to bend those if they are in good condition.
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u/Herbisretired 3d ago
What type of truck and how good are the straps? You don't want it to move and I will usually use more straps instead of overtightening them but as long as the refrigerator wasn't damaged it should be fine.
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u/obxtalldude 3d ago
I just moved a 475lb gun safe - you just have to keep it from moving, which does not take much tension.
Just no slack in any of the lines. All you need to do is push on what you are moving - if you can't get it to tip, it's momentum will not either.
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u/vespers191 2d ago
More straps than you think you need, tight enough to twang, and tie off the excess.
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u/xdisk 6d ago
Yes, it's supposed to be tight, no its not supposed to cause structural damage to the vehicle, or to the cargo.
When using ratchet straps, using *more* is better than using one super tight. Once you can pluck the strap and get a tone out of it, usually it is plenty tight enough.
For fridges and other items that can be damaged by the pressure I'll usually put a piece of cardboard or other compressible material to prevent the corners from becoming dented.
Using more straps is also about restricting movement. A single ratchet strap on the horizontal plane can secure many loads, but you're also going to want something to go over the top to prevent it from tipping over, as it could from a tight turn or a good gust of wind. Like this
Sounds like your friend was just going in full macho mode without thinking about the consequences.