Tow Chains and Ratchets

Long, J. H.
Hartford, John

picture

Towboats
Barges

Tows comprised of barges were lashed together by manila ropes called \"lines\" in the early days of towboating. These, with other modern improvements, have, in part, been replaced by chains or cables with ratchet pulling jacks for tightening or reducing \"slack\". Ratchet pulling jacks were originally designed for steamboat and river work in hitching tows, fastening rafts, floats, etc. However, they have been so improved that they are now being extensively used in building construction and shipbuilding for fastening and holding in place the skeleton steel framework, derricks, masts, forms, etc. In railroad work they have proven a valuable tool for wrecking crews. In quarries and coal mines for fastening either permanent or temporary guys.

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