Trailering 1st Time XR3135HC

[ismilelots]

I've seen a bunch of posts on which trailer and which type of strap/chain to use, but can't find this answered.
First time taking the LS to the dealer. I have a large trailer and I'm using heavy duty ratchet straps.
Where to you feel are the best places to attach the tie downs on an XR3135HC (w/loader but without any attachments)?

Thank you for the help.

 

[fried1765]

I've seen a bunch of posts on which trailer and which type of strap/chain to use, but can't find this answered.
First time taking the LS to the dealer. I have a large trailer and I'm using heavy duty ratchet straps.
Where to you feel are the best places to attach the tie downs on an XR3135HC (w/loader but without any attachments)?

Thank you for the help.

Your question is VERY tractor specific.
You really need to hope that someone with the EXACT same model machine will respond.

 

[3Ts]

I would attach the straps/chains to the frame of the tractor. But, that's kinda open ended and depends on the tractor. You want a sturdy point that will not break if lots and lots of force is applied to it. I'd contact your dealer if you're not sure where to make the attachment.

 

[ismilelots]

Your question is VERY tractor specific.
You really need to hope that someone with the EXACT same model machine will respond.

This I know. I still wish the mfg would put tie down points on them.

 

[ismilelots]

I would attach the straps/chains to the frame of the tractor. But, that's kinda open ended and depends on the tractor. You want a sturdy point that will not break if lots and lots of force is applied to it. I'd contact your dealer if you're not sure where to make the attachment.

Thank you. Great idea that I never even thought of.

 

[George2615]

I have a similar sized tractor, just older than yours. I bolted on D-rings to the front frame and use a twisted clevis on the rear for securing tractor to trailer. I used ratchet straps years ago but it didn't take long before the straps got frayed and tears in them and I no longer trusted them so I have since used chains and ratchet binders.

 

[Bluesteel]

I've seen a bunch of posts on which trailer and which type of strap/chain to use, but can't find this answered.
First time taking the LS to the dealer. I have a large trailer and I'm using heavy duty ratchet straps.
Where to you feel are the best places to attach the tie downs on an XR3135HC (w/loader but without any attachments)?

Thank you for the help.

You may want to check with your states law in regards to transporting. Many states require a 4 point anchor with grade 70 transport chains. Not saying heavy straps won't work just may save you from a fine. Drawbar on rear like George posted. If you attach to the frame just make sure you hook to a good spot and don't crank down and spread the frame.

 

[ismilelots]

I have a similar sized tractor, just older than yours. I bolted on D-rings to the front frame and use a twisted clevis on the rear for securing tractor to trailer. I used ratchet straps years ago but it didn't take long before the straps got frayed and tears in them and I no longer trusted them so I have since used chains and ratchet binders.

Thanks. I like what you've done there. Question: is there a difference in strength between the twisted and regular loop clevis on the rear? I have a regular one that says it's rated for 4,000lbs.

 

[ismilelots]

You may want to check with your states law in regards to transporting. Many states require a 4 point anchor with grade 70 transport chains. Not saying heavy straps won't work just may save you from a fine. Drawbar on rear like George posted. If you attach to the frame just make sure you hook to a good spot and don't crank down and spread the frame.

Very wise to know. I did check with a state load enforcement officer (Michigan). He said for the size of my LS straps are fine as long as their rated high enough. He also said each attachment has to be secured even when attached to the tractor. I too, like George's idea

 

[George2615]

Thanks. I like what you've done there. Question: is there a difference in strength between the twisted and regular loop clevis on the rear? I have a regular one that says it's rated for 4,000lbs.

The twisted clevis I have is 3/4" dia. and rated for 12,000 lb. work load limit. The 7/8" dia. one is rated for 16,000.

Search Results for twisted clevis at Tractor Supply Co.

 

[ismilelots]

The twisted clevis I have is 3/4" dia. and rated for 12,000 lb. work load limit. The 7/8" dia. one is rated for 16,000.

Search Results for twisted clevis at Tractor Supply Co.

Thank you. Very helpful info

 

[cford36]

Wherever you decide to run the straps my understanding is that you need a minimum of 2 for the tractor and 1 on each implement, that includes the loader. So in your case 2 on the tractor and 1 on the loader.

 

[fried1765]

Wherever you decide to run the straps my understanding is that you need a minimum of 2 for the tractor and 1 on each implement, that includes the loader. So in your case 2 on the tractor and 1 on the loader.

I NEVER tow my tractors without 4 separate tie downs.
2" straps, or grade 70 - 5/16" chain....chain preferred!
One for each corner!

 

[cford36]

I NEVER tow my tractors without 4 separate tie downs.
2" straps, or grade 70 - 5/16" chain....chain preferred!
One for each corner!

Like I said MINIMUM required. And my main point was that no matter how you secure the tractor (2,4 or 10 straps or chains) you still need at least 1 tie down per implement and that includes the loader.

 

[ismilelots]

Wherever you decide to run the straps my understanding is that you need a minimum of 2 for the tractor and 1 on each implement, that includes the loader. So in your case 2 on the tractor and 1 on the loader.

Thank you. I wasn't thinking of the loader as an attachment. I was thinking without the bucket on I didn't need to secure that part.
The dealer said they haul all theirs with a strap across the front bar and one through a clevis attached to the drawbar, so that's what I did.

 

[Avenger]

As it was stated before, check your state laws. Many consider the FEL a separate implement and will require it be secured too. Usually, a chain or strap around the bucket will suffice. Here is how I load mine:

I always reverse onto the trailer. The tires are filled and I want more weight over the tongue than behind the axles of the trailer. More weight behind those axles will result in the "tail wagging the dog"

I prefer to use chains. I got mine from Home Depot https://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbil...el-Tow-Chain-with-Grab-Hooks-803082/203958797 Good Price!
I bolt on D-rings to the front frame, just behind the brush guard and in front of the muffler on the left side.
Run the chain through the D-rings and use a chain binder to tighten. Anchor the chain to the trailer to make a 'V' pointed to the front of the trailer
Run a chain trough a clevis on the draw bar, hooking the chain to the trailer behind the draw bar to make a 'V' pointed to the rear of the trailer

This: >Tractor<
Not this: <Tractor<
Not This: >Tractor>
This is ok, but I dont like it: <Tractor>

Then, run a chain behind the support bar on the FEL or behind the bucket to secure it to the trailer. (Make sure the bucket is down flat on the trailer, not in float, but not pressing down hard on the deck)
Run a chain around any attached implements, this includes a backhoe. (Again, check your laws)

Make sure your trailer and truck can handle the weight. Its not about going, its about stopping. Using a 1/4 ton pickup to pull a tractor is not wise. It might be able to go down the road, but can it stop?

Always remember to set the parking brake in the tractor too.

Another thing to consider, no one has ever gotten a ticket for using too many tie downs. When it doubt, tie it down.

As far as being tractor specific, the laws dont use tractor specifics in their definitions. Just use common sense and dont bend anything. Hook to solid steel, not hydraulic cylinders. If it looks hokey, it is hokey and you need to make some adjustments.

 

[BRMyers]

INFO from the FMCSA

393.128 - Automobiles, Light Trucks and Vans
This portion of the new standards applies to the transportation of automobiles, light trucks, and vans which individually weight 4,536 kg (10,000 lbs) or less. Vehicles which individually are heavier than 4,536 kg (10,000 lbs) must be secured in the same manner as heavy vehicles, equipment and machinery (see the rules under /393.126).

393.130 - Heavy Vehicles, Equipment and Machinery
These requirements are applicable to the transportation of heavy vehicles, equipment and machinery which operate on wheels or tracks, such as front end loaders, bulldozers, tractors and power shovels and which individually weigh 4,536 kg (10,000 lbs) or more. Vehicles, equipment and machinery which is lighter than 4,536 kg (10,000 lbs) may be secured in accordance with these rules, the rules for automobiles, light trucks and vans, or the general freight requirements.

Driver's Handbook on Cargo Securement - Chapter 9: Automobiles, Light Trucks, and Vans | FMCSA

Here is a video showing a tractor being chained down by Ask Tractor Mike

Securing a Tractor to a Trailer - YouTube

 

[Avenger]

Thats a good video, but I do have something to add (go figure)

In some states, crossing the chains is required, in some its not required and, in some, its illegal for the crossed chains to touch. Now, I dont completely pretend to understand the reasoning behind the government and their decision making skills, but it may mean the difference between getting a ticket or not.

Also, in this video, he is using the front axle, which is fine, especially in older tractors, or tractors that dont have the steering cylinder right up against it. If I was to use my front axle, I would run the risk of bending or breaking something up there. Again, common sense is required in all this.

 

[hks003]

My users manual shows where to tie mine down. Check yours!