Insert the flat hook of an appropriately sized tie-down strap into one of the flat hook catch slots on the left rear side of the tow dolly carrying pan. Ensure that the hook is in the slot closest to the center of the tire. If the tire is centered between slots, always insert the hook in the slot toward the inside of the tire and do the same for the strap on the other side so that the strap on the side will be pulling toward each other.
Pull the tie-down strap over the tire making sure there are no twists in the net.
Feel around inside of the tire to ensure strap clears any metal object, which will fray or cut strap and adjust if necessary. (Cutting or fraying of straps from abrasion is not covered under warranty.)
With adjustable straps, make sure the adjustment buckle is on the outside of the tire and pull any slack through the buckle to ensure that the strap going around the tire is straight across the tire. Tuck any excess strap into the loop of the top cross over strap.
Open the ratchet, lock it on the left front side of the carrying pan halfway, and feed the free end of the tie-down strap through the slot in the center of the ratchet. NOTE Pull all of the slack through the ratchet slot before beginning to tighten the strap. If this is not done, a big spool of strap will be on the ratchet and will allow the strap to loosen prematurely.
To tighten the tie-down strap, push and pull the ratchet back and forth until the strap is completely tight.
When the tie-down strap is completely tight, lock the ratchet by folding the handle down until the ratchet is completely closed. Pull the handle to make sure the ratchet is locked closed. This will prevent loosening of the tie-down strap during towing.
After locking the ratchet, there may be quite a bit of extra strap left hanging. Take the strap and tie it off to the round bar, which the ratchet is attached to, to prevent it from dragging on the ground.
Repeat steps 1 through 8 for the right side tire. NOTE On dollies without the optional security chains installed, skip step 10.
If so equipped: Attach the two security chains to the towed vehicle frame, engine mounts or tie-down hook. These chains are located toward the center on the front side of the carrying pan. Do not pull these chains tight, they must be left slack. NOTE Before test-driving, make sure the parking brake is released.
On rear-wheel drive cars and trucks, disconnect the drive shaft if required. (Consult vehicle manufacturer.)
When loading and tie-down are complete, take a test drive making slow left and right hand turns. Stop and recheck the tie-down straps, retightening them as needed. Vehicle-in-tow tie-down is now complete.
