OFF ROAD VEHICLE RECOVERY KIT
(GENERAL VEHICLE RECOVERY GUIDELINES)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ITEM DESCRIPTION PAGE
1. OFF ROAD VEHICLE RECOVERY KIT CONTENTS 2
What Recovery Equipment to use When? 2
2. GENERAL WARNINGS 3
3. SNATCH STRAP WARNINGS 4 - 5
4. SNATCH STRAP GUIDELINES 5 - 6
5. TOW ROPE WARNINGS 7 - 8
6. TOW ROPE GUIDELINES 8 - 9
7. COMPONENT INFORMATION-BOW SHACKLES 9
8. COMPONENT INFORMATION-SNATCH STRAP 10
9. COMPONENT INFORMATION-TOW ROPE 11
Page 1 of 11
CCOPYRIGHT HOLDEN 2003
Reproduction in whole or part prohibited
without written approval of Holden LTD
HOLDEN LTD
Division of HOLDEN Ltd ACN 006 893 232
FD1189
23JA 04
Page 2 of 11
1. OFF ROAD VEHICLE RECOVERY KIT CONTENTS:
OFF ROAD VEHICLE RECOVERY KIT
(GENERAL VEHICLE RECOVERY GUIDELINES)
Description Qty Image
Snatch Strap* 1 (grey with red ends)
Bow Shackles 2
Tow Rope** 1 (blue with grey ends)
Tow Flag 1
Tie Pressure Gauge 1
Shovel 1
Gloves 1 pair
Mat 1
Guidelines 1
Recovery Bag 1
What Recovery Equipment to use When?
*Snatch Strap: The snatch strap is to be used for vehicle recoveries.
**Tow Rope: The tow rope is to be used to move inoperable vehicles.
CCOPYRIGHT HOLDEN 2003
HOLDEN LTD
Division of HOLDEN Ltd ACN 006 893 232
FD1189
23JA 04
Page 3 of 11
2. GENERAL WARNINGS:
It is highly recommended that prior to using this off road vehicle recovery
kit that users undertake off road training including vehicle recovery.
Recovering immobilised vehicles is potentially a dangerous exercise and
this recovery kit is to be used with great care.
Ensure these guidelines have been read and understood prior to use.
This vehicle recovery kit is not suitable for all vehicle recovery
circumstances.
These are guidelines only and do not cover all situations, if in any doubt
seek professional assistance.
The equipment in the recovery kit must not be used for any purpose other
than as described in these guidelines.
CCOPYRIGHT HOLDEN 2003
HOLDEN LTD
Division of HOLDEN Ltd ACN 006 893 232
FD1189
23JA 04
Page 4 of 11
3. SNATCH STRAP WARNINGS:
Ensure immobile vehicle is stable and not in a position where a rollover
could occur prior to getting out of the vehicle or commencing vehicle
recovery.
Never get underneath a vehicle during vehicle recovery operations.
Ensure the mobile vehicle is capable of snatching the immobile vehicle
(general rule of thumb is kerb mass of the mobile vehicle should be greater
than that of the immobile vehicle - consult vehicle manuals).
Check that recovery kit is safe to use as per "Component Information
Snatch Strap" section of these guidelines.
Never secure snatch strap to tow ball, tow bar or bull bar. Do not assume
vehicle mounting holes (including shipping tie down brackets) are strong
enough for towing. Only use the dedicated towing points as described in
the vehicle manuals.
Ensure the snatch strap and / or the bow shackles cannot become
dislodged or unhooked during the vehicle recovery (consult vehicle
manuals).
Never attempt to push either vehicle during a vehicle recovery.
Avoid connecting snatch straps or tow ropes together to form longer
components.
Do not use the tow rope as a snatch strap.
Driver Warnings (Both immobile and mobile vehicles):
Ensure drivers of vehicles keep fingers and thumbs on the outside of the
steering wheel rim at all times.
Where possible ensure the engine is running in the immobile vehicle at all
times (this will prevent the steering column lock engaging and improve
foot pedal brake operation).
Continued over...
All people except for the vehicle recovery drivers are to be at least 20 meter
away on the high side of the recovery vehicle and not near the intended
path that the vehicles will be traveling.
..
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COPYRIGHT HOLDEN 2003
HOLDEN LTD
Division of HOLDEN Ltd ACN 006 893 232
FD1189
23JA 04
Page 5 of 11
SNATCH STRAP WARNINGS: continued...
If it is not possible for the engine to be running in the immobile vehicle
make sure that:
The ignition of the immobile vehicle is "ON" (to avoid steering column
locking).
Driver is aware that the foot pedal brake will operate at significantly
reduced capacity.
Where possible avoid snatching out a vehicle on a downward slope (as the
risk of the recovered vehicle colliding with the lead vehicle may increase).
The driver of the immobile vehicle should be ready to apply brakes or
manoeuvre alone side the lead vehicle after recovery.
4. SNATCH STRAP GUIDELINES:
4.1 Assess the most suitable vehicle position for the mobile vehicle to assist in the
recovery of the immobile vehicle.
4.2 Position the mobile vehicle to allow 2 - 3 meters of slack in the snatch strap
when it is connected between the mobile and immobile vehicle.
4.3 Using a shovel, ensure all four wheels of the immobilised vehicle have a c l ea r
path in the direction that the vehicles will travel during recovery.
4.4 In soft terrain such as sand or snow, deflating the tyres of the vehicles to 15psi
(100kPa) may assist in providing traction. Whilst driving with deflated tyres
avoid sharp turns, rough and steep terrain and driving for extended periods
(consult vehicle manuals).
4.5 Connect the snatch strap and bow shackles as follows:
a. Remove the pin from the bow shackle.
b. Loop bow shackle through one end of the snatch strap.
c. Consult the vehicles manual (towing section) of the immobilised vehicle
on where is the most appropriate attachment point.
d. Offer the open end of the bow shackle / snatch strap to the attachment
point of the immobilised vehicle, insert the bow shackle pin through the
unthreaded hole of the bow shackle then through the immobilised vehicle
attachment point. Then tighten the bow shackle pin into the threaded bow
shackle hole so that it is one half turn from being finger tight.
..
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COPYRIGHT HOLDEN 2003
HOLDEN LTD
Division of HOLDEN Ltd ACN 006 893 232
FD1189
23JA 04
Page 6 of 11
CCOPYRIGHT HOLDEN 2003
4.6 The driver of the mobile vehicle is to provide signals to the driver of the immobile
vehicle to signal that the mobile vehicle is ready to commence vehicle snatch.
Driver of the immobile vehicle is to confirm readiness. Signals between the
drivers may be communicated by hand signs, flashing lights, vehicle horn, two-
way radio or as agreed between the drivers.
4.7 For recoveries of an immobile vehicle with an operational engine:
a. Automatic Vehicles: Place immobile vehicle in the lowest gear and
disengage the handbrake.
b. Manual Vehicles: Place immobile vehicle in 1st gear with the clutch
depressed and disengage the handbrake.
4.8 For recoveries of an immobile vehicle with an inoperable engine:
a. Automatic & Manual Vehicles: Turn the immobile vehicles ignition to the
"ON" position, place vehicle in neutral and disengage the handbrake.
4.9 The mobile vehicle is to drive off at a slow and steady pace (lowest gear only).
As soon as the driver of the immobile vehicle sees the mobile vehicle move off
the driver of the immobile vehicle is to release the clutch (manual vehicles only)
and lightly apply accelerator.
4.10 If the mobile vehicle fails to recover the immobilised vehicle or stalls, apply
brakes; gradually release brakes or reverse slowly to release tension in the
snatch strap.
4.11 Secure vehicles via engaging the hand brake, get out of vehicles and inspect
vehicles and equipment for damage. Repeat steps 6 to 10. If still unsuccessful
seek professional assistance.
4.12 After recovery, ensure both vehicles are stationary and secure; ensure the
snatch strap is loose between the two vehicles.
4.13 Get out of the vehicles, remove recovery equipment.
SNATCH STRAP GUIDELINES: continued...
e. Repeat steps a. to d. for the mobile vehicle. (Note: Consult the mobile
vehicle manual).
f. Place a heavy jumper, bag or blanket over the centre of the snatch strap; in
the event that the snatch strap becomes dislodged during recovery the
item will reduce the amount of recoil of the snatch strap.
HOLDEN LTD
Division of HOLDEN Ltd ACN 006 893 232
FD1189
23JA 04
Page 7 of 11
5. TOW ROPE WARNINGS:
Prior to towing an immobile vehicle consult the immobile vehicle manual to
determine suitability of towing and vehicle preparations required.
Prior to towing on public roads consult local authorities for advise on the
relevant rules and regulations.
Never get underneath vehicles during vehicle towing preparations.
Ensure the mobile vehicle is capable of towing the immobile vehicle
(consult vehicle manual of mobile vehicle).
Check that recovery kit is safe to use as per "Component Information - Tow
Rope" section of these guidelines.
Where possible minimise the number of people involved in the vehicle
towing operation (ideally have two drivers only). If others are required to be
transported during towing operation people should occupy the mobile lead
vehicle.
Never secure towrope to tow ball, tow bar or bull bar. Do not assume vehicle
mounting holes (including shipping tie down brackets) are strong enough
for towing. Only use the dedicated towing points as described in the vehicle
manuals.
Ensure the towrope and / or the bow shackles cannot become dislodged or
unhook during the vehicle towing (consult vehicle manuals).
Never attempt to push either vehicle during towing operations.
Avoid connecting snatch straps or towropes together to form longer
components.
Check that the towrope will not rub against vehicle parts during turns at
various towing angles.
Driver Warnings (Both immobile and mobile vehicles):
Ensure drivers of both vehicles keep fingers and thumbs on the outside of
the steering wheel rim at all times.
Where possible ensure the engine is running in the immobile vehicle at all
times (this will prevent the steering column lock engaging and improve foot
pedal brake operation).
Continued over...
..
C
COPYRIGHT HOLDEN 2003
HOLDEN LTD
Division of HOLDEN Ltd ACN 006 893 232
FD1189
23JA 04
TOWROPE WARNINGS: continued...
If it is not possible for the engine to be running in the immobile vehicle make
sure that:
The ignition of the immobile vehicle is "ON" (to avoid steering column
locking).
Driver is aware that the foot pedal brake will operate at significantly
reduced capacity.
During towing operations drivers should slow down, (braking and
accelerating at slower rates when possible).
6. TOWROPE GUIDELINES:
6.1 Position the mobile vehicle to allow 1- 2 meters of slack in the towrope between
the mobile and immobile vehicle.
6.2 Ensure red tow flag is fed onto the towrope and located roughly in the middle of
the rope.
6.3 Connect the towrope and bow shackles as follows:
a. Consult the vehicle manual (towing section) of the immobilised vehicle on
where is the most appropriate attachment point.
b. Remove the pin from the bow shackle.
c. Loop bow shackle through one of the ends of the towrope.
d. Offer the open end of the bow shackle / towrope to the attachment point of
the immobilised vehicle, insert the bow shackle pin through the unthreaded
hole of the bow shackle then through the immobilised vehicle attachment
point. Tighten the bow shackle pin into the threaded bow shackle hole so
that it is one half turn from being finger tight.
e. Repeat steps a. to d. for the mobile vehicle. (Note: Consult the mobile
vehicle manual).
6.4 Drivers of vehicles are to agree on what signals will be used during the tow, for
example:
a. Go: two short beeps on the horn.
b. Stop: one long beep on the horn.
Drivers should confirm readiness to tow. Signals between the drivers may be
communicated by hand signs, flashing lights, vehicle horn, two way radio or as
agreed between the drivers.
..
Page 8 of 11
CCOPYRIGHT HOLDEN 2003
HOLDEN LTD
Division of HOLDEN Ltd ACN 006 893 232
FD1189
23JA 04
Page 9 of 11
6.5 For both automatic and manual vehicles: Place immobile vehicle in neutral and
disengage the handbrake.
6.6 The mobile vehicle should move off slowly to take up the slack in the tow rope.
Once the slack is taken up, the mobile vehicle is to move off at a steady pace.
7. COMPONENT INFORMATION - BOW SHACKLES
Specifications:
Material Dropforged High Strength Steel
Capacity SWL = 3.25T
Weight 580 grams
Coating Zinc Plated with Yellow painted pin.
Safety & Inspection:
Prior to using the bow shackles inspect for damage. Damage may include:
Evidence of heavy impacts
Cracks
Heavy corrosion
Thread damage
Deformation
If any of the bow shackles exhibit any of the above discard the bow shackles
exhibiting damage.
CCOPYRIGHT HOLDEN 2003
Care & Maintenance:
Ensure that bow shackles are not stored in a wet / humid environment.
Always rinse bow shackles with fresh water after use in sand and / or salt
water.
Always ensure bow shackles are dry prior to them being stored.
..
..
TOWROPE GUIDELINES: continued...
HOLDEN LTD
Division of HOLDEN Ltd ACN 006 893 232
FD1189
23JA 04
Page 10 of 11
8. COMPONENT INFORMATION - SNATCH STRAP
Specifications:
Material Nylon Webbing
Length 9 meters (unstretched)
Stretch Factor 20%
Weight 1.7 kg
Capacity 8000 kg
Colour Grey with red ends
Safety & Inspection:
Prior to using the snatch strap inspect for damage. Damage may include:
Frayed materials
Loose stitching
Cuts & abrasions
If the snatch strap exhibits any of the above discard the snatch strap.
Care & Maintenance:
Do not expose snatch strap to any petroleum-based products, acids or
alkaline products.
Ensure snatch strap is not stored in direct sunlight or wet / humid
environments.
Clean snatch strap in warm water and allow to dry in the shade. (Always
ensure snatch strap is dry prior to being stored).
Snatch strap life = 10 vehicle recoveries or as per safety & inspection
requirements above. Holden highly recommends that all usages of the snatch
strap be recorded and kept with the off road recovery kit.
..
.
C
COPYRIGHT HOLDEN 2003
HOLDEN LTD
Division of HOLDEN Ltd ACN 006 893 232
FD1189
23JA 04
9. COMPONENT INFORMATION - TOWROPE
Specifications:
Material Nylon Webbing
Length 4 meters
Weight 0.6 kg
Capacity 4000 kg
Colour Blue with grey ends
Safety & Inspection:
Prior to using the towrope inspect for damage. Damage may include:
Frayed materials
Cuts & abrasions
Loose stitching
If the towrope exhibits any of the above discard the towrope.
Page 11 of 11
Care & Maintenance:
Do not expose towrope to any petroleum-based products, acids or alkaline
products.
Ensure towrope is not stored in direct sunlight or wet / humid environments.
Clean towrope in warm water and allow to dry in the shade. (Always ensure
tow rope is dry prior to being stored).
Towrope life = As per safety & inspection requirements above. Holden highly
recommends that all usages of the towrope be recorded and kept with the off
road recovery kit.
CCOPYRIGHT HOLDEN 2003
HOLDEN LTD
Division of HOLDEN Ltd ACN 006 893 232
FD1189
23JA 04