Step 3. Tie Friction Hitch
Tie a secure friction hitch to the climbing rope. Examples of appropriate friction hitch styles include
Valdotain, Michoacán, Distel, Schwabisch, Cooper’s, XT, and Knut. Mechanical friction hitches may also be
acceptable (check with the manufacturer that the mechanical device is rated for SRT.) The friction hitch
chosen must be well understood before use.
Note: It is imperative that the climber knows how to properly tie a friction hitch. There are many variables
to be considered when tying a friction hitch, such as temperature, humidity, level of expertise, desired
ascent and descent speeds, etc. There is no substitute for experience and hands-on training – consult with
a professional arborist if you are not properly experienced or trained.
Step 4. Attach Elements to Karabiner
Attach the ends of the tied friction hitch and one end of the tether to the karabiner. If using a micro pulley,
slide it onto the rope and attach it to the karabiner as well. Attach all elements so as to maintain
symmetry on the karabiner, e.g., attach the ends of the friction hitch on either side of the tether.
Test:
Apply as much downward force on the karabiner as possible to ensure the friction hitch is gripping the
rope properly. This should be done multiple times. Ensure that the friction hitch catches when the climbing
rope is both weighted and unweighted before the Rope Wrench is installed on the line.
Step 5. Attach System to Harness
Attach the end of the karabiner to your harness at the harness’s designated attachment point. If the
harness has a chest attachment point, attach it to the Tether Attachment Point or to the tether itself.
Step 6. Bounce Test
1. Slide the friction hitch and Rope Wrench up the climbing rope as far as possible.
2. Lean back or crouch down so that the friction hitch grips the rope. Proceed to the next step only if this
is successful.
3. Take a small jump and swing the legs forward, such that the entire body weight is put onto the system
and the climber bounces on the rope.
4. Look and listen for cracking or creaking from the supporting branches and trunk. Do not climb on the
system if cracking or creaking is observed.
5. Be sure there is no excessive give in the branches.
6. Perform all relevant inspections listed in the section titled “Pre-Climb inspections”.
This test ensures the system will maintain its integrity should a fall occur.
WARNING: USE PROPER HITCH
The friction hitch is a climber’s ultimate life support and failure to properly tie and
operate a friction hitch can lead to serious injury or death.
Step 1. Attach Tether To Rope Wrench
1. Unscrew and remove the Tether Attachment Point bolt.
2. Place the free end of the tether between the Side Plates at the Tether Attachment Point.
3. It is recommended that a reversible thread-locking uid be applied to the bolt to prevent loosening.
4. Reinsert the bolt.
5. Make sure the bolt is screwed in all the way.
Rope Wrench Set-Up Instructions
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