Turnbuckles

Turnbuckles are adjustable tensioning fasteners used to tighten, align, and secure cable, rope, and rod assemblies. By pairing left-hand and right-hand threaded ends in a single body, they provide precise, incremental control of tension without disassembling the line—ideal for rigging, fencing, shade sails, guy wires, marine lifelines, and construction bracing.

Common configurations include hook and eye for quick connections, jaw and jaw (clevis) for bolted, non-slip terminations, and eye and eye for use with shackles or quick links. Choose open-body turnbuckles for easy inspection and cleaning, or closed-body styles for a sleek profile and added thread protection. Materials range from hot-dip galvanized steel for rugged outdoor use to 316 stainless steel for top corrosion resistance in marine and coastal environments. Forged bodies and fittings deliver higher strength and improved fatigue performance.

Selection tips:
- Match working load limit (WLL) to your application; never exceed the rated capacity.
- Size by thread diameter and take-up length to ensure adequate adjustment range.
- Pick end fittings to suit your terminations: swaged wire rope eyes, thimbles, shackles, or eye bolts.
- For critical rigging, look for hardware meeting ASME B30.26 and ASTM F1145.
- Use locking nuts, cotter pins, or safety wire to resist vibration loosening.

Installation is straightforward: align components, hand-tighten to remove slack, then wrench-adjust both ends evenly to reach target tension. Protect threads with anti-seize on stainless parts to reduce galling, and avoid side loading by keeping the line straight. Inspect regularly for bent bodies, damaged threads, and corrosion; replace any questionable hardware.

From DIY trellis tensioning to professional stage rigging and sailboat stays, quality turnbuckles improve alignment, reduce sag, and maintain reliable tension over time. Explore sizes from M6 to M20 and beyond to match your wire rope, chain, or rod systems. Shop by finish, grade, and certification today.