A snatch block is a commonly used tool carried on any size tow truck light-medium or heavy- duty. It’s important that the operator understands how the snatch block works, and how it can work to your advantage. The term snatch block refers to its ability to snatch a live or a loaded line. Snatch blocks are going to work in multiple ways. They’re going to allow you to gain mechanical advantage, reduce line load, or change direction of the wire rope.
We classify snatch blocks in two ways:
RUNNING BLOCK
A snatch block can either be a running block, meaning that it travels with the load, or indirect proportion to the load.
FIXED BLOCK
The fixed block is attached to an anchor and doesn’t move when the load moves.
The running block most commonly gains mechanical advantage and reduces line load. The fixed walk helps a wire rope change direction and facilitates mechanical advantage.