use straps rated to hold down the xj. i towed someone elses xj on another persons trailer with their tie downs. the strap broke because it was not rated for the load even though it looked like a bigger type of strap. dont skimp on straps. chains are ok for some loads but have fallen out of favor lately
i finally bought my own trailer in the past my buddy always used chains , its just load binders are riduculously priced i can get a set of 4 usa nylon rachetstraps for around 50 from mac custom tie downs tsc wanter 48 a piece for load binders for the price of two losd binders i can buy to sets rs and have a set for spaers
I use between 5 and 6 ratchet straps rated at 5000 lbs. I don't accelerate fast when towing so I usually don't add the 6th holding it from moving backwards.
I use 4 2 inch nylon straps.. one at each corner criss crossed. The only problem I have ever had was one strap unfolding the tail end and dragging it on the pavement trashing it out.
I can't remember the brand, but i use 4 axle type straps that i got from a trailer shop. they cost me about $60.00/ea. which i was glad to pay, because you don't skimp on safty.
get all my stuff from this guy. Call him he will set you up with a kit of whatever you need, ratchets are INCREDIBLE well worth the money but cheaper than most of the quality stuff i looked at before buying http://www.autohaulersupply.com/
I gotta agree, this is one area you SHOULD NOT skimp on. Not sure if Harbor Freight sells them, if they do, I would STAY away from them. I use my brothers truck and trailer if needed and use straps.
Bought a set of four 8' ones, with removable axle straps. I attach them diagonally on both axles, around the control arm mounts up front and around the pumpkin in the back (or the control arm mounts on the ZJ). If you go with straps, store them inside as much as possible or keep them oiled (PB blaster) so they don't bind up.
I want to say the set of four ran me $150 or so. Has a nice bag to carry them around in too. I tried to get by with buying cheap crap locally, but plan on at least $100 to get something decent. Occasionally I wish I had gone with chain and binders, but the straps are nice for tying down other vehicles too.
well i decided to go chains and binders came across a trucker getting out of the business had 4 brand new load binders still in the greased bag in boxes for 50 bucks for 4 of them couldnt pass it up.