Abstract: A latching device (10) is designed to tension a clamp (11) or the like which has open ends (11A, 11B). The device (10) includes at least one ratchet link (16) pivotally carried by a support (12) which is affixed to one end (11B) of the clamp (11). A handle assembly (41) and a pawl (47) are pivotally carried by a bracket (34) which is affixed to the other end (11A). A yoke (53) is pivotally carried by the handle assembly (41). The pawl (47) is adapted to engage a tooth (22) of the ratchet link (16) to maintain a degree of tension on the clamp, and the yoke (53) engages another tooth (22) such that upon rotation of the handle assembly (46), the yoke (53) pulls the ratchet link (16) and advances the engagement of the pawl (47) to another tooth (22). In view of the relationship of the various pivoting axes, the handle assembly (41) is of the “overcenter” type such that when the desired tension of the clamp (11) is reached, the handle assembly (41) may be locked in place.