There's nothing like a simple labour-saving device to get Biglorryblog's readers excited. T&D and BLB contributor Nick Garlick e-mails me to say: "Hi Brian, I came across this great idea whilst tipping in Antwerp recently."
Nick goes on to say; "The Dutch driver using this clever device had rolled 10 straps up in the time it took me to roll five up! Great time-saving device and simple to make. Regards, Nick."
Naturally this rang a bell with Biglorryblog because back in March 2006 I blogged on a very similar device called the Gurtefix which is sold through the German load securing equipment supplier Wistra CargoCare. And you can find it on the CargoCare website link here
I think the above device is actually a DIY version (the welded arm rather gives it away). Anyway click through here for some shots of the genuine Gurtefix and how it works....
And here it is in all its glory, the Gurtefix.
And here it is shown installed on the cat-walk of a Mercedes tractor----the winding mechanism slides out on the longitudinal square section tube and then the knurled knob locks it into place--and when you don't need it you slide it back behind the cab side-valance. Neat eh?
Here's the start of the winding process. You slip the strap through the slot in the winder and lay the strap on the guide--then start winding the handle.
Then you whistle a happy tune as you turn the winder until you get to the end...then you slip off the coiled-up strap and Voila...there you have it! All quicker than you can say ratchet strap.
Now isn't that clever? So much easier than trying to sort out a tangle of straps and easy to throw over a load too when they're all neatly coiled up.
And no before you ask, BLB hasn't got any connection with Wistra CargoCare, although having plugged this device twice already I wish I had!
i thought you guys still used rope?
We have had similar tools Down Under for many years.........