Abstract: Disclosed is an extendible cheater bar for use in tightening the ratchet mechanisms and consequently the straps used in long haul trucking applications for the securement of loads. The extendible cheater bar includes a second body member and a first body member. The second body member is hollow, elongated and includes an internal cavity with an internal surface which is partially or wholly internally threaded. The first body member is elongated and has an outer surface which is partially or wholly externally threaded. The first body member screws into and out of the internal cavity of the second body member, thereby forming an extendible and retractable cheater bar lever with improved characteristics while maintaining the necessary rigidity.