Step 4. Connecting and tightening the line
•
Make sure both ends of the line are secured at the same height.
•
With the ratchet handle facing down, feed the end of the main line through the ratchet axle slot.
Make sure line is not twisted or folded as this could weaken the ratchet and cause breakage or
damage to the line.
•
Pull the line tight through the ratchet axle slot so there is no slack in the webbing. The ratchet spool
can only hold about 2 feet of line, so it
’
s necessary to pull the line as tight as possible before using
the ratchet. Do not overfill the ratchet spool or it can become jammed and unable to unwind.
•
Pull on ratchet release lever to unlock ratchet handle. Use ratchet handle to tighten further by
cranking the handle back and forth.
•
Keep ratcheting the line tighter until the line is as tight as you can make it (but do not exceed 100
pounds of force on the handle). When fully tightened, pull release lever to close and lock handle in
place. If ratchet handle is not locked closed, the line could unwind suddenly and cause injury.
Step 6. Releasing the line
•
When you are ready to take down the line or want to adjust the spacing of obstacles, you will need
to release the line tension.
•
Unlock the ratchet handle by pulling the release lever firmly and opening the ratchet.
•
Fully open the ratchet by pulling the release lever and firmly press the ratchet handle open until the
line snaps loose. A popping sound can be heard.
•
Once tension is loosened, obstacles can be repositioned.
Step 5. Mandatory load stress test
•
Make sure all connections are tight and secure.
•
Bystanders should maintain a safe distance from the line, at least 10 feet at all times.
•
Using either a 250 lb person or weight, test the line by suspending weight 5 feet from each end.
•
Watch for line dipping, or slipping around anchor trees. Tighten line if necessary.
Pull Line Tight
Before Ratcheting
Ratchet Handle in
Locked Position
Crank Ratchet Handle
to Tighten Line
Fully Open Ratchet
Handle to Release Tension
Line Threads Through
Ratchet Axle Slot
