Proper way to pull someone out?

I have a manual 4wd, are there any do’s/don’t’s when it comes to pulling out a stuck vehicle? Should you do it in 2wd when possible to prevent the front drivetrain and t-case from getting damaged? Especially when having to snatch someone out?

Thanks for any insight.

 

Not sure regarding mechanics of pulling someone. But I'd make sure you are pulling from a rated recovery point and using a D-Ring shackle

 

call over the Chevy guy he can jack his crap up …lol

 

Where you located? Any 4x4 clubs in your area?

I've learned a LOT since joining in on some group runs with experienced friends, and even had some specific vehicle recovery training in a Search and Rescue unit. Oh, and those Overland Expos usually have some recovery training as well.

I had actually pulled out, or been pulled out, multiple times before, but more than anything I've learned how to be SAFER during recovery.

 

Don’t pull by the axle one member can tell you why.

 

There are definitely people who know better than I, but as I have been pulled out many times, I’ll share what I’ve been going by.

Definitely use solid recovery points like a hitch receiver shackle or l bumper shackles from the rear, although do not pull from a bolt or hitch pin in the receiver as it could bend and become stuck. Rear axle is also a NO.
For the front, a bumper with shackle points is best, but there is also companies that make shackle mounts for the Oem tow hook location and also crash bar replacements that give you 2 recovery points and a front 2” hitch.

Make sure shackles have at least a 15000lb rating.
Tow straps, while they can be used, aren’t the best. A “snatch” or “recovery” strap is better, then will stretch a little and make recovery easier. I would get one with a 20000lb or high rating. Straps with metal hooks or anything solid on the end are dangerous, as if the strap breaks they become deadly projectiles.

When acting as the recoveror, I’d first try to just pull the other vehicle out from a standstill, without slack in the strap. 4wd is usually best, I’ve even used 4lo once.
If the vehicle isn’t coming out with that method, or is obviously very stuck, you can get a “running start”. I’d allow for just enough slack in the strap so that it rests on the ground.

 

Don't use a chain...
































Just Google type "incredible accident chain break" and there will be YouTube clips that you won't be able to un-see once you see them

 

A winch. Barring that, an elastic recovery strap attached to solid recovery points via shackles.

 

I'm going to go ahead and add MaxTrax, or similar recovery/traction boards. 2 are good, and 4 can be amazing for getting a vehicle out. And these have very little chance of hurting a vehicle or another person (just don't stand directly behind the vehicle).

I know the OP asked about pulling someone out, but hopefully these might work without having to ever hook two vehicles together.

If not, see people's posts above

 

Agreed.

Soft shackles are even better, but pricey.

If using an MT, definitely 4Lo. It will allow softer take up of the initial slack. Keeping slack out of the strap is the responsibility of person getting towed out. Unless it is a serious emergency, no one needs to hammer it. Just pull gently with as little throttle as you can get away with.

 

Just before you...Oh, like pull a vehicle out.

traction boards first, then to kinetic strap/rope, then winch. I go in that order based on order of pain to reset the vehicle. Rated recovery points, and know the difference between a snatch and a tow strap.

 

I'd had these on my wishlist for a while and have been meaning to ask for opinions about them:

GoTreads Emergency Automotive Traction Tool

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LGXH5OY

Of course, their video made them look worthy.

 

Your order is exactly what I've been taught. Winch seems to be last line of defense when all else fails.

 

Don't overthink it man, it's really not that big of a deal. Just don't pin-it and rip someones bumper off

 

if only because of the time it takes to spool in all the line and tension it after.

 

Winch cable to winch cable, and pull.

 

You can use 4wd when pulling someone and can use 4lo depending on conditions as the Tcase is used for gear reduction which will provide greater torque and control BUT be cognizant of your conditions.

Never pull someone out in reverse.

Always link up to a recovery point. I've seen axles ripped out of vehicles because they had nothing else to secure to. Use a recovery point....seriously.

Snatch blocks will reduce winch loads so I always recommend using a snatch

Dynamic tow ropes. Dynamic tow ropes are fairly new and while they are expensive they are great about not shock loading vehicles.

Steel cables break and release energy. If you dont want to be cut in half, dont stand along the winch line.

 

If you watch 4wd actions youtube videos, theyll often skip a snatch/tow strap and go straight to the winch. Maxtrax also work well in conjunction, but they always explain the strategy and why they chose to recover in that way.

Seems like they usually use snatch straps with maxxtrax for deep soft sand.

Not sure why straps are recommended before a winch? Is it just so u dont need to respool the line? I feel like u have more control over the pull with a winch and less shock load?

Their full length dvd videos are also just great to watch. Between them and ronny dahl, i feel like ive seen all the best parts of australia already

 

I dont know those videos but I guess it depends on the situation. If the guy behind me gets stuck and doesn't have a winch, I might not be able to turn around and winch him.

 

I think it is just a risk reward decision. Snatch straps are easier to rig quickly and very effective. Winch lines take a lot longer but are much more controlled and risk to the vehicle is reduced over a snatch.

Something to note: observe how 4xOveland or Ronny Dahl pull out a vehicle with a strap, then go to youtube and watch the way most people recover with a strap. Risky biscuits, yo.