I purchased another 4 row John Deere planter and used chains and binders to secure it to my Sure Trac trailer. I’ve equipped this 25k Sure Trac trailer with the Shocker gooseneck air hitch, which helps smooth out the ride and get rid of the hucking and bucking.
When transporting heavy machinery, I choose chains and binders to secure the equipment to the trailer. Heavy Machinery and equipment have many edges that can literally cut right through ratchet straps, and as a result, your load becomes loose and dangerous.
Many folks don’t understand this, or don’t care? I get it, especially when you are lazy, but there is a place for ratchet straps and a place for chains and binders. Machinery and equipment is the place for chains and binders!!
Notice in the pictures above how the planter is in the transport position, meaning it is up off of the ground so it can be pulled behind tractor or pickup to next field. When hauled on a trailer like this, it’s more challenging to secure it properly. You can see in the pictures how I’ve wrapped the log chain around the frame so when I tighten the ratchet chain binders, it secures it each direction and cannot move. I also used one 2” hd ratchet strap over the top side to side for one more security measure.
We also removed the hitch so nothing was hanging over the side of trailer, and this allowed the tongue frame flanges to really dig into the wood trailer deck, which helped lock it in tight for a secure and safe transport.
Always take the time to make sure you secure loads properly, using the proper equipment, whether it be ratchet straps, or chains and binders.
Unloading was the same as loading. Used 2 sets of chains hooked towards the rear and others around the main frame in front. As you can see, I prefer the loader tractor for things like this, because it has more reach than the track loader.
Always do your best,
-Mike and Rhonda Pilcher
MPE LLC – Pin Oaks Farm
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