Abstract: A device for use in tensioning the lines, ropes or cables used to tie down cargo during transport aboard a ship or other means of transportation is disclosed. An embodiment of the device is described which comprises a rigid body defining an open ended, open top channel tapering from minimum transverse dimensions at the bottom to larger transverse dimensions at the open top thereof wth a hook rigidly fixed to the body at one end of the channel, a bracket rigidly fixed to the body at the other end of the channel and an opening through the body at one end of the channel having cross-sectional dimensions larger than the minimum transverse dimensions of the channel. The provisions of a plurality of elongated ridges on each of the sides of the channel is disclosed which ridges extend from the bottom of the channel to the top thereof with the bottom end of each ridge spaced a lesser distance along the channel from the opening than the top end thereof.

Abstract: An adjustable lifting thimble for lifting a load, including a center plate, a circular plate connected to one side of the center plate and having a groove for slidably receiving a wire rope between the ends thereof, another circular plate connected to the other side of the center plate and having a groove for slidably receiving another rope between the ends thereof, and a locking mechanism, pivotally connected to the center plate and slidably receiving the ropes, for automatically pivoting to prevent sliding of the ropes when the load is lifted.