Abstract: A thimble mechanism for retention of a shackle in a wire rope loop termination. In one preferred embodiment, a thimble device is provided for a shackle having a pair of opposed legs with each leg having an end with a width smaller than a depth. The thimble device includes a thimble body having an external arcuate edge with a rope groove for receipt of a wire rope therein. A central opening extends through the thimble body with the central opening larger than the width but smaller than the depth of the shackle ends. A keyway is provided in the thimble body extending from the central opening to the arcuate edge of the thimble body.

Abstract: A swivel hardware assembly which includes a bail having a base with an opening therethrough. A shank, terminating in a head, passes through the opening to form a pivotal connection between the bail and the shank. The first thrust washer is juxtaposed between the head and the base. A second thrust washer is juxtaposed between the head and the base. Each thrust washer has at least one surface covered with a self lubricating material, the self lubricating surfaces mating with each other to form a bearing surface.

Abstract: Fittings for use with one or more loading bearing lines or chains comprising an indicia marking on a working portion of the fitting that is representative of an angular load position relative to an in line load position of the lines or chains for that particular fitting.

Abstract: Fittings for use with one or more loading bearing lines or chains comprising indicia markings on a working portion of the fitting, the markings comprise an inline load position and angular load positions of the lines or chains when used with the fitting.

Abstract: A load indicator is connected between a load line and a load handling member such as a hook. The indicator includes a hollow cylindrical housing, a plunger assembly including a transverse head slidably mounted in the housing, a pilot rod integral with the head and extending to a location outside the housing, means connecting a first end of the housing opposite the plunger rod and means connecting the plunger rod to the load line and to the load handling member, and a compression spring in the housing urging the plunger head toward the first end of the housing. The wall of the housing has several sight openings therethrough. A sight band of contrasting color is fixed to move with the plunger assembly inside the housing and to be visible through the sight openings.