Using The Circular Push Handles As Tie-Down Points

xpatico

Here in Florida we are anticipating the arrival of hurricane season very shortly. I am making plans to secure our 2015 T@b from possible high winds. I am installing folding "D" rings onto the the concrete driveway as secure anchor points. Are the push handles strong enough to hold the trailer securely in high winds? If not are there any other attachment points on the frame? Should the fabric cover be installed or not? Any other advice for safely weathering high winds is greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance. Stay safe.
Rob

pthomas745

If the storm winds are strong enough to move the trailer, the bigger issue will be flying debris/storm surge.  The trailer weighs about the same as a VW Bug, and it is kinda rare to see them flying around. (Tornadoes not included!) 

If you do use the cover, it would have to be firmly secured, and anchored as tightly to the trailer as you can make it. If the air gets in under the cover and starts to push it around it could cause problems.  I have used cargo straps and lots of spring clips all around the edges of the cover to anchor it down.  Not in hurricane winds, however.

There was this thread a few weeks ago about the same subject, which has better advice:

https://tab-rv.vanillacommunity.com/discussion/11569/batten-down-the-hatches

You can also search for "tornados" and there are some threads.

Denny16

You could look into a flat strap style cargo net you could lay over the top of the trailer, and secure it to the tie downs with adjustable cargo straps.  This would spread the stress across the entire trailer.
cheers

Dalehelman

In a word yes.

Sharon_is_SAM

Besides tying it down, I would be worried about flying debris.  I would put some kind of padding under the cover - think heavy packing blankets, egg crate mattresses, a closed cell bed roll, etc.  We do this to the top if hail is expected.

Denny16

Good idea, also the OEM cover could be used.
cheers

Kr@cken

Sending you prayers and positive thoughts!