The Firehouse Product Review team tested the R.A.V.E. (Rapid Automatic Vehicle Extrication) Strut from RESQTEC, available through Power Hawk. The strut is designed to stabilize vehicles and objects in unbalanced positions and features a 2:1 safety factor when deployed, a weight rating of 5,512 lbs per strut at a 90-degree angle, and an approximate full extension of 71 inches. The assembly includes a built-in, 2,645-lb-rated ratcheting strap with an integrated steel hook.
R.A.V.E. Strut design and specifications
The telescoping strut head offers four built-in placement options: Spike; Edge Support with grip; Grip Surface; and Chain Holder, which accepts 5/16-inch chains. To select a head surface, lift the head and rotate it until the desired surface is positioned to rest against the vehicle. The strut’s extension locks automatically at the chosen length.
The ratcheting strap is rated at 2,645 lbs and features a sliding heat sleeve to protect it from high-temperature drivetrain or exhaust components; the sleeve can be positioned before setting the strap. The strap reels automatically back into the spool when the assembly is closed.
Deployment and breakdown
To deploy the R.A.V.E. Strut, the rescuer selects the appropriate head surface and approaches the single stabilization point with the head facing the vehicle and the ratchet strap assembly facing up. After estimating the placement angle, the rescuer stops at the approximate base point and places the strut base down. The base plate can be used with a Crib Block to distribute load over a wider footprint, or an Earth Nail can be driven through the base plate when operating on soft soil.
Unlock the ratchet strap by extending the handle and extend the strut until it contacts the vehicle. Connect the built-in steel hook on the strap to a point on the vehicle close to the ground to form a triangular buttress, then tension the assembly using the ratchet. Post-incident breakdown begins by removing tension through the ratchet assembly, lifting the base to move the strut away from the vehicle before collapsing it, and closing the strut by lifting the lock collar.
The R.A.V.E. Strut’s combination of multiple contact-head options, an automatic extension lock, an integrated ratcheting strap with heat protection, and compatibility with cribbing and earth anchors defines its intended use for stabilizing vehicles and objects that are not resting on their tires.
