WLL of Trailer Tiedown Points

Discussion in 'Flatbed Trucking Forum' started by JimmyWells, Nov 2, 2016.

  1. JimmyWells

    JimmyWells Road Train Member

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    I understand the average is 5,400 pounds or so for most trailers that are actually rated. However, my question is what is the DEFAULT number DOT uses if said trailer has no rating on the plate? I've been searching forever and cannot seem to find a solid answer...preferably in written format to use as reference.
     
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  3. Gunner75

    Gunner75 Road Train Member

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  4. JimmyWells

    JimmyWells Road Train Member

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    I appreciate the input but DOT does not mention trailer anchor points at all. I'm looking for the actual NUMBER that they claim would be the weakest link in the securement process. When securement devices such as chains, binders and straps lack WLL information DOT defaults to a predetermined number for calculations. What's the number the use for anchor points on the trailer? I'm aware it isn't a requirement to list the information on the data plate but how can DOT use such a claim for a default lower rating on a chain etc but NOT for the actual anchor points on the cargo and/or trailer? This totally makes the entire process of downrating securement nearly a moot point.
     
  5. Lostkeys

    Lostkeys Heavy Load Member

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    I understand what you are asking for and I have never found it either. I would contact the trlr mfr and see what info they can give. My j hooks on my east are stamped at 5400. My fontaine phantom had chain ties and the links were stamped grade 7. As for pipe spools, rub rail etc. I've only seen where mfr's give that info.
     
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  6. JimmyWells

    JimmyWells Road Train Member

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    Same here but if they don't what does DOT use in place of it? They have zero problem putting an arbitrary number on every other piece involved in the securement process except for the anchor points. Why do they even bother with downrating the tiedowns then? It's a racket.
     
  7. Gunner75

    Gunner75 Road Train Member

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    I seen a page just earlier that said unmarked securement devices would be disregarded towards the aggregate wll. From previous companies I've been with, they have all said similar things.
     
  8. Gunner75

    Gunner75 Road Train Member

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    Then there is this

    Use of Unmarked Tiedowns

    The new rules do not prohibit the use of unmarked tiedown devices. Although many of the participants in the public meetings and numerous commenters to the rulemaking proposal argued the rules should include such a prohibition, FMCSA believes it is inappropriate to prohibit unmarked tiedowns at this time. However, in view of the potential safety hazards of motor carriers misidentifying unmarked tiedowns, there is a provision that unmarked welded steel chain be considered to have a working load limit equal to that of grade 30 proof coil, and other types of unmarked tiedowns be considered to have a working load limit equal to the lowest rating for that type in the table of working load limits.
    https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/cargo-securement/cargo-securement-rules
     
  9. Gunner75

    Gunner75 Road Train Member

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  10. JimmyWells

    JimmyWells Road Train Member

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    I got that. I'm asking about the default WORKING LOAD LIMIT NUMBER FOR ANCHOR POINTS on the trailer that aren't marked on the data plate that DOT downgrades to. Apparently, DOT has NO number for them like they do with chain, straps, binders etc etc. This makes the other numbers they like to use completely worthless. It's nothing more than an excuse to steal our money.

    They DON'T have a number, it's clear. So if they want to use the "weakest" link in the securement process how can they possibly determine what the weakest link even is if they don't have a number for the anchor points? They can't!
     
  11. Gunner75

    Gunner75 Road Train Member

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    I offered that up in my first post but you discounted it. They don't have a requirement for anchor points. They suggest it. I would imagine if the anchor points are rated it just asked them another point to hit on.


    I guess the weakest link would be the lowest rating that's marked.

    Contact a dot chip and ask him in person and see what's that discussion leads
     
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