I just bought some tie down straps from Warparty36 (thanks - they're awsome).

I want to get some type of protective pad. When I will be stapping down the transom, the strap will be contacting a painted area and rubbing my K-Plane. I don't want to damage the paint. Besides wrapping a rag around the strap, what can I use to REALLY protect the boat?????
Strap size is 2" wide.

Thanx!!

Bill, I fold the 2" strap in half, and send this portion though the gap between the K-plane plate and the K-plane base on the transom. I have been doing this for several years with WarParty36's straps, and it has worked well for me. As for touching the boat, how about finding a plastic sleeve that will clip over the lower portion of your transom loop that will move the strap's attach point out an inch or more.

The only other suggestion I have, is to wrap the ratchet strap with carpet, and secure it in place with zip ties. You may consider moving the trailer eyes to a place that would cause less trailer boat/strap interference

THAT is a good idea, but not sure how you do that. I understand Fold in half and where to slide it, but does the hook slide thru as well - or do you just have a loop thru the gap; and if a loop, how do you secure it. Sorry, I just can't picture what you are trying to describe.
BTW: I hope your felling better and will be back on the boat soon!!!!

Bill, walmart has the seat belt covers that work great for that, they hook around the strap and velcro together. I also have some of the 20 mil film if you want to stick a couple pieces in the painted area. call me on my cell 410-746-0020..rob

I second the seat belt covers. Mine also came from Walmart.

seat belt covers walmart autozone parts orpep boys would have them.

I send the strap through the outer opening between the K-Plane and Backing Plate. This slit is about 1.5" deep, and the folded strap sits in there perfectly. There is no need to feed the hook through there, as the strap comes in from the side.

The AT has some SS outer backing plates on the transom loops. I have a specific way that I hook the strap that the only point the hook touches the boat is on the SS backing plate.

I may have some pics back at home when I get out of the hospital.

Fold up a wash cloth, wrap it between the strap & the tab.

Radiator hose slit down length. towed from AZ to Miami and back,no issues.

Silicon heater/radiator hose sounds like a great idea.

Bill, take a look at my other thread about the windscree.ns here in this forum