where to use tie downs on an RT when trailering

[garyleblanc1]

Hello Forum!

Any to do's or not to do's when tying down an RT on a hauling trailer?
Thanks

[MisterP]

There are multiple threads on towing techniques that are available through searching. Some strap down over the front tires, some through the wheels with padding. Only consensus (I think) is not to strap to any parts of the Spyder body which isn't designed for it.

[billybovine]

Most years or maybe all of the RT owners manuals have a section on how to tie down your Spyder to a trailer. Since I do not know the year of your RT. I cannot direct you to the page. If you use their method. Please use towels or something similar to protect the finish on your wheels. There are lots of other methods that will work well. I am sure other will post them.

[Bob Denman]

Through the rear wheel: be careful not to get yourself caught up in the "brake-bits" on the right-hand side, or the drivebelt and pulley on the left.
Up front:
This is where I differ with the factory recommendation of putting the strap through the wheels.
I put my strap around the lower A-arm just inboard of the lower shock mount.
I've never had a problem...

[BLUEKNIGHT911]

The people who own show cars worth in the $ 100,000 plus category ... DO NOT USE THE FRAMES OR SUSPENSIONS for securing their vehicles to any trailers ...... They put the ratchet straps over the tires ( in-line with the tire ) ....this provides both a firm hold on the vehicle and prevents ANY DAMAGE. .... But I'm sure Bob is going to post immed. after me stating that micro-fiber towels will prevent scratches. I'll bet anyone, any amount of money this is false ....Why ?? .... because just washing your vehicle cause scratches in the paint !!!!!! ................. Mike

[KHC]

The people who own show cars worth in the $ 100,000 plus category ... DO NOT USE THE FRAMES OR SUSPENSIONS for securing their vehicles to any trailers ...... They put the ratchet straps over the tires ( in-line with the tire ) ....this provides both a firm hold on the vehicle and prevents ANY DAMAGE. .... But I'm sure Bob is going to post immed. after me stating that micro-fiber towels will prevent scratches. I'll bet anyone, any amount of money this is false ....Why ?? .... because just washing your vehicle cause scratches in the paint !!!!!! ................. Mike

I think somebody ratcheted up Mike's panties a little too tight. No need for the big fonts, caps, and multiple exclamation points.

[canamjhb]

When using tie down straps through the wheels be mindful of sharp edges on the wheels. Nylon straps and sharp edges do not mix well. Use rags for padding where necessary. It is amazing how much movement a trailered vehicle has. Remember, it is on a platform (trailer) with suspension in addition to having it's own suspension. Even a moderately sharp edge can have devastating effects after things get bouncing along down the road.....

[Deanna777]

Run a strap over the center of the rear tire, underneath the spyder, ( so it wont scratch the tupperware) and secure it at the front of your trailer.

Mike( Blueknight911) used this method to tie down my first spyder, and it did not move. Deanna

[BLUEKNIGHT911]

[QUOTE=KHC;1265851]I think somebody ratcheted up Mike's panties a little too tight. No need for the big fonts, caps, and multiple exclamation points.[/QUOTE} Dear: KHC..... I think you replied on the wrong thread ...... you need to put your comment on the " mean, nasty, stupid, not relevant to the subject thread " ........ your very welcome for my assistance................. I try to help people here - what is your purpose ????? ....... Mike ......PS , please put me on your ignore list - because you are now on mine

[oldguyinTX]

Can't we just all get along? I mean, really, why get into a pissing match? It serves no purpose.

[KHC]

[QUOTE=BLUEKNIGHT911;1265867]

I think somebody ratcheted up Mike's panties a little too tight. No need for the big fonts, caps, and multiple exclamation points.[/QUOTE} Dear: KHC..... I think you replied on the wrong thread ...... you need to put your comment on the " mean, nasty, stupid, not relevant to the subject thread " ........ your very welcome for my assistance................. I try to help people here - what is your purpose ????? ....... Mike ......PS , please put me on your ignore list - because you are now on mine

Can't put you on my ignore list, because to do so I'd have to recognize you, and one can't be recognized and ignored simultaneously.
However, I do have a list that you may go on, and I'm penciling your name in now. Right at the top. Thank you.
Ignorantia sit beatitudo

[garyleblanc1]

2015 and where do I find straps that go over tires and how do I handle fenders?
Thanks
GL1

Most years or maybe all of the RT owners manuals have a section on how to tie down your Spyder to a trailer. Since I do not know the year of your RT. I cannot direct you to the page. If you use their method. Please use towels or something similar to protect the finish on your wheels. There are lots of other methods that will work well. I am sure other will post them.

[canamjhb]

There's not enough clearance to use a traditional tire tie down. My best advice is to use straps going through the wheels with pads and lock the wheels to the trailer. Let the Spyder bounce along on it's own suspension. Just get all three wheels locked down good.

[BLUEKNIGHT911]

2015 and where do I find straps that go over tires and how do I handle fenders?
Thanks
GL1

A company " Discount Ramps " sells their products on E-bay at discounted ( from normal ) prices... they have a very large assortment of high quality , heavy duty ratchet straps ( 3000 lb plus rating ) at very reasonable prices. I only use one on my RT's rear wheel with home made wood chocks for the front wheels ..... " EMAZO2 " has posted pics of his set-up........ Mike

[Bensonoid]

One way to do it.

[Bob Denman]

Mike,
Are you done peeing in the pool yet?
BRP has their own recommended method: some folks use it, and some folks don't.
If you want to put the strap over your tires: that's fantastic!
But it sure doesn't mean that the rest of us are part of the ignorant, unwashed masses...

[Zip]

Through the rear wheel: be careful not to get yourself caught up in the "brake-bits" on the right-hand side, or the drivebelt and pulley on the left.
Up front:
This is where I differ with the factory recommendation of putting the strap through the wheels.
I put my strap around the lower A-arm just inboard of the lower shock mount.
I've never had a problem...

That's how I do it.

The front tires are against rubber chocks mounted to trailed floor. i put the straps through the frame inside shock mount and pull up tight against chocks. I have a third chock that I place behind the rear wheel, Then a strap through rear wheel and secure that. now I apply the parking brake.

[Bob Denman]

Perhaps an explanation behind my logic of not putting straps through the front wheels will help...
I'm no engineer: I can't begin to quantify the stresses place on the rim, when you use it as a tie-down point.
But I figure that if you're that far out beyond the pivot points for that front wheel hub: it's probably better to just find a solid place inboard of them...
That's my theory, and I'll stick to it!
(Until I bend an A-arm... )

[Zip]

Perhaps an explanation behind my logic of not putting straps through the front wheels will help...
I'm no engineer: I can't begin to quantify the stresses place on the rim, when you use it as a tie-down point.
But I figure that if you're that far out beyond the pivot points for that front wheel hub: it's probably better to just find a solid place inboard of them...
That's my theory, and I'll stick to it!
(Until I bend an A-arm... )

Front wheels pivot, if you are straps at angles the tension you are exerting is putting undue stress on the pivot points, Not even thinking of all the extra stress caused by the motion of the trailer.

[Bob Denman]

We must have gone to different High Schools together...

I'd say that you read my mind: but that's only about like reading a comic book!

[jaherbst]

Rachet straps through all three wheels at the lower part of the rear wheel and STRAIT forward on the front tires. Do not cross tie the front tires. This works well for me unless I use the trailer with the Super Clamps. Only two short straps to keep from bouncing.

Jack