Rigging Turnbuckles

A turnbuckle is a piece of hardware used for adjusting the tension or length of cables, ropes, and other tensioning systems. It normally consists of two threaded bolts, one screwed into each end of a small metal frame (called the body), one with a left-hand thread and the other with a right-hand thread. The tension can be adjusted by rotating the frame, which causes both eye bolts to be screwed in or out simultaneously, without twisting the eye bolts or attached cables. 

Types of turnbuckles:

• Hook and hook: Hook type bolts screwed into body on both ends.
• Hook and eye: Hook type bolt screwed into body on one end and eye type bolt screwed into body at other end.
• Eye and eye: Eye type bolts screwed into body on both ends.
• Jaw and eye: Jaw type bolt screwed into body on one end and eye type bolt screwed into body at other end.
• Jaw and jaw: Jaw type bolts screwed into body on both ends, jaw type have removable pins for easy installation.

The type of turnbuckle needed on a jobsite is normally determined by the connection points.  Hook type turnbuckles can be used to attach to temporary connection points that will be connected and disconnected frequently. Jaw type turnbuckles can be used to attach to connection points that do not open, such as pad eye or lifting ring.  Eye type turnbuckles can be used to attach to connection points that can open such as a shackle or lifting link.

Fulcrum lifting offers turnbuckles from a variety of manufacturers imported and domestic. Turnbuckles are recommended for in-line pull only. Lock nuts are available for all turnbuckle types to make sure bolts stay in position. Turnbuckles are also available in a closed body form to protect the threads of bolts.