center swivels and baseplates

[bhugo]

Has anyone tried the crimp on PIT center swivels? I realize that they are not as good as base plating, but I do not have a welder and was looking for a cheap way to make some old #2 northwoods and 1 1/2 montgomeries traps a little better. I would like to know if there have been any problems with the PIT centers.

I also see that baseplates can be riveted. That I can do! Is it acceptable? I figure welding is a lot better, but is rivetting a baseplate better than the crimp on center swivel?

Any help would be appreciated.

[johndeeretrapper]

i dont have a welder either i was thinking if i did get some baceplated i would see if a car repair shop could weld them for me for a little charge. you may as have good luck asking a muffler shop or something.its worth a shot.

[wild bill]

was looking for a cheap way to make some old #2 northwoods and 1 1/2 montgomeries traps a little better.

Any help would be appreciated.

nothing will make them traps better. you should just give them to me to get rid of for you.:lol: im not to far from ya and could probably help ya out with the welding. send me a pm if your interested in a little drive.

[griffondog]

I don't think I would use them on my traps. They look like a problem waiting to happen to me. I use stock 1 1/2 and 2 monties on my line with no problems. I don't think they need to be base baseplated. Coyotes eat a few dogs but no more than other traps. I would bolt on the baseplates before I rivet them on.

Griffondog

[bhugo]

As usual-You guys are very helpful! Thanks much,I appreciate your advice.

[Northcountry]

I have found no reason yet to baseplate my coyote traps. If you hook the chain on the end of the frame, or out on the crossbar (opposite the dog), the force of the animal will not be pulling the frame like an archer pulling a bow.

Keep your chain assemblies as short as you possibly can so the animal cant get a good jerk on the trap and stake. Put 2 or 3 heavy duty ("crunch proof") swivels along the chain.

My canine traps are Duke #2's and with the rigging described above, I have yet to have a single damaged trap. Bent dogs, yes...bent frame or jaws, no.

[bhugo]

Should the chain be replaced with the welded link chain when swivels are added, or is the old stock chain good enough?

[Northcountry]

Should the chain be replaced with the welded link chain when swivels are added, or is the old stock chain good enough?

The chain that is sold for each particular-sized trap will be good enough for its intended catch. In other words, the stock chain on a #2 will be good enough for coyotes. However, the chain from a #1 LS is not heavy enough for coyotes.

On the other hand, machine chain is nicer to work with. It doesnt tangle with itself or other chains, like the twin-loop chain does. And since its made of much heavier stock, its more durable against the bone-crushing teeth of a coyote...as well as side-cutter pliers that a thief may be carrying.

Personally, I replace all stock chains with #3 machine chain....but I dont think its truly necessary.