How to use the turnbuckle?

What is the turnbuckle?

A turnbuckle is a piece of hardware used to eliminate slack and adjust tension in a rope, cable, or other tensioning system.

Body: the metal frame in the center of the device that joins the two threaded end fittings. The body itself is turned to adjust tension by extending and retracting the end fittings.

The body may be one of two types: closed or open. An open body turnbuckle is the more traditional type where the threads are visible through the body frame. Closed body turnbuckles—also known as pipe bodies—encase the threads in a closed frame to create a slimmer profile that fits in tighter spaces.

Nut: also referred to as a jam nut, the nut can be placed on the threads of the end fittings and tightened against the turnbuckle body to help prevent the device from loosening or unthreading.

End Fittings: these are the two connection points that screw into the opposite ends of the turnbuckle body. One end fitting is right-hand threaded while the other is left-hand threaded. This allows you to turn the body to adjust tension after installation without moving the end fittings.

There are three main types of end fittings that can be used together in any combination on either end of the turnbuckle:

• Hook end – a hook end fitting is used to create temporary connections because they are easy to quickly connect and disconnect. They should never be used in connections where tension could unexpectedly release.

• Jaw end – a jaw end fitting consists of a jaw and bolt secured together by a nut or a pin. These are used to connect to components that cannot be opened, such as an eye bolt.

• Eye end – an eye end fitting is a closed loop that can be connected to a shackle or quick link.

Thread diameter: this is the diameter measurement of the threaded portion of the end fittings. The greater the thread diameter is, the greater the load-bearing capacity of the turnbuckle and vice versa.

Take-up length: this is the total length that the end fittings can screw into and out of the body to “take up” tension. Take-up length can be measured in terms of “opened” or “closed” end fittings: the end fittings are either fully extended or fully retracted.

How to use the turnbuckle?

We recommend starting with your turnbuckle half engaged, this is so you can apply tension once fitted. Rotate the central strainer body by hand to release the threaded eye and hook ends.

Once your turnbuckle connected, simply tighten the turnbuckle by rotating the central strainer body until the required tension is achieved.

Tip: You can use a flat head screw driver or the claw of a hammer to help tighten the central strainer (dependent on turnbuckle size).

Important: If using with wire rope, it is important that the wire is NOT allowed to turn or twist as this could weaken the wire.