Patent ID: 6966543
Filing Date: 2005-11-22
Classification: B60P,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A tool for association with a ratchet wheel of a tie-down device, the tie-down device for securing an article by a strap whereby a shaft is journaled for rotation in which the strap is wound around the shaft in a take-up direction, the tie-down device ratchet wheel having ratchet teeth rotatable with the shaft and a pawl engaging the ratchet teeth to allow rotation of the winding shaft in the take-up direction and prevent rotation in the other direction, the ratchet wheel further having a center bore which extends in a direction parallel with the shaft, the tool comprising: a handle having substantially parallel first and second surfaces; a first extension coupled to a distal end of said handle on said first surface and extending perpendicularly therefrom and adapted for insertion into the ratchet center bore; a second extension coupled to a center portion of said handle first surface and extending perpendicularly therefrom and adapted for insertion into the ratchet teeth; and a third extension coupled to said handle opposite said distal end on said second surface and extending perpendicularly therefrom.