Julian
All I can say in adding to this is the kinetic ones can be quite
expensive, and once used, its not safe to use them again because the
kinetic energy has been used up...I know it sounds silly.
We had one of these in 2001 in the Grand Erg Oriental in Algeria, it
was only used as a major last resort, and once only.
I would say though, that its a very handy rope to have around, but I'd
support the idea that the best rope is the strongest one you can get,
don't know about lengths, perhaps up to 12-15 metres or so? It would
have to be one that could withstand the pulling of about 5 tonnes in
weight I guess. The other one I have as 'stock' is is a thickesh (0.5
cm wide) steel cable one, encased in soft vinyl - this can be used for
other things too, if required, but it is quite heavy and is a devil to
store! i.e. it won't do as you tell it, and will keep unraveling - it
can be bent but this is not recommended so I store it around one of
those heavy duty cable winds? the ones that gardeners use for their
water hoses. The other problem with this is because it is stored
circularly, it isn't the best user of space in a loaded cruiser.
I carry one of each. I still have to replace the 'usual tow rope' the
synthetic fibre one, I think its nylon or something plasticky like this.
The usual one is about 10mm wide. I never had chance to try this one
out 'cos the people I was travelling with wanted some rope for their
camels....so I gave them this. Apparently these ropes are able to b e
used, but I never did get chance to try it out.
Renate
>>> [Email address removed] 01/07/05 11:52am >>>
I have always taken the agricultural approach to tow ropes, just using
what ever lengths of rope that comes to hand, but I now want to start
to build up some sensible recovery kit.
What is the best sort of tow rope to go for general towing of vehicles
out of mud, towing on road and pulling the occasional tree stump?
I suppose the choices are:
Tow Straps
Heavy duty tow rope
Kinetic tow rope.
Any recommendations would be appreciated.
--
Regards,
Julian Voelcker
Mobile: 07971 540362
Cirencester, United Kingdom
1994 HDJ80, 2.5" OME Lift, ARB