Opinions of retractable transom tie downs

[retire2disney]

Having just loaded boat on the trailer from a wonderful day at Cayo Costa, wife drives the truck and trailer forward out of the way and I start to put straps on transom. They are the "paddle" style or "cam" lock type. Put the hooks on and begin to lock it down when the webbing rips and now the strap is useless. Guess it could of happened going down the road when I really would have needed. Drive home was slow and cautious. Good thing it was only 10 minutes. What are you opinions on the retractable type straps? Are there any issues with being repeatedly dunked in brackish/ salt water?

 

[robert graham]

Re: Opinions of retractable transom tie downs

I use the everyday, elcheapo, ratchet type tie-downs, seem to work fine for several years, and cheap to replace. The spring-loaded, retractable jobs cost more and if mounted on the trailer are always getting dunked in the salt water, and you know salt water will eat up most anything. They might be O.K. for fresh water. Good Luck!

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Opinions of retractable transom tie downs

If your boat sits with the straps exposed to the sun, you need to take them off when you get home. They don't last too many years.

 

[retire2disney]

Re: Opinions of retractable transom tie downs

no the straps are not exposed to the sun directly. it does sit outside but the stern of the boat is up against the garage door so straps are always shaded. there is a distinct possilbility that they are more than 5 years old though.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Opinions of retractable transom tie downs

Once they get to the point where they get a little stiffer, that is a sign they need to be replaced.