Abstract: A mechanism for tensioning a cable or chain over a load and for maintaining such tension even though the load may shift and settle. The mechanism includes a "U" shaped base that rotatably mounts an elongated cylindrical hollow spool. The spool is connected at opposite ends to a spaced pair of ratchet wheels. Pawls are located on the base member for operatively engaging each of the ratchet wheels. Inside the hollow spool is a torsion spring that is directly connected at one end to the spool. The remaining spring end is connected to one of the ratchet wheels. The spool and this particular ratchet wheel are relatively movable about the longitudinal spool axis since they are interconnected only through the torsion spring. The remaining ratchet wheel is affixed directly to the spool for rotation therewith. Turning the spool through this ratchet assembly does not wind the spring but instead serves only to wrap the cable or chain about the spool circumference.

Abstract: A mechanism for tensioning a cable or chain over a load and for maintaining such tension even though the load may shift and settle. The mechanism includes a "U" shaped base that rotatably mounts an elongated cylindrical hollow spool. The spool is connected at opposite ends to a spaced pair of ratchet wheels. Pawls are located on the base member for operatively engaging each of the ratchet wheels. Inside the hollow spool is a torsion spring that is directly connected at one end to the spool. The remaining spring end is connected to one of the ratchet wheels. The spool and this particular ratchet wheel are relatively movable about the longitudinal spool axis since they are interconnected only through the torsion spring. The remaining ratchet wheel is affixed directly to the spool for rotation therewith. Turning the spool through this ratchet assembly does not wind the spring but instead serves only to wrap the cable or chain about the spool circumference.