I think there's some confusion here about what's being discussed. A tire is not sprung mass relative to the trailer. My earlier point is that ideally there's no movement between the deck of the trailer and the tie down point on whatever is being towed. If securing a car to a trailer using straps that run over the tires, there is little movement of the tire relative to the trailer. There could be a little deformation of the side walls of the tire given the mass and inertia of the vehicle being towed, but not a lot.
The scenario I was referring to and that I've seen more than a few times, is when the strap or chain is attached to a point on the vehicle that has the suspension system bracketed between the deck of the trailer and the tie down point. This is referred to as sprung mass. For example, a situation where straps are attached to tie down points on the front and rear bumpers of a Jeep. This is not an ideal way to secure a vehicle when towing and it's a good way to have straps or chains loosen up while towing. The M-1078 I sold had a feature (that I never used) where the suspension could be compressed and locked in place via steel plates in preparation for being loaded into a C-130. Basically sprung mass is being changed to unsprung mass.
Great points
@McMXi …I would add though that tires are still part of the suspension…there is still some wiggle there.
as far as initial thread regarding chains tie down binders etc..
couple points I would share:
1. I think the choice between straps and chains depending on frequency of use and application. I say this as I started with straps, and have use the wheel straps…they are generally fine…they do suffer from abrasion over time and elements. They are very light weight easy to carry when rolled up nice and tidy
2. On the other hand, with chains, if driving multiple hours it increases chances of inclement weather…sure they are heavier, but also more durable, last longer, they also don’t take on moisture and much faster / quicker to put away versus rolling up a strap - when it’s raining out that’s a big benefit, not to mention not rolling up a wet strap and storing in a dark box. Chains stretch a whole lot less.
3. If going for binders, the speed binders sure look sweet, I think if frequency of use makes sense probably worth the money.
I have and use both, but I prefer chains for the tractor and straps for the implements. If it look like rain then it’s chains all the way and I cut some holes in old socks as a sleeve to protect the implements.
Id think the speed binders would be a good thing Christmas list if loved ones looking for ideas.
I’ve had very positive results with USCARGO Control for straps and chains/binders and they normally offer USA made options if that matters to you. Their USA made products also have a very clear placard of the spec limits. Maybe that does / doesn’t matter to everyone, but does to me and especially for SWLL items. YMMV.