instruction manual

TREE STAND BUDDY® STARTER KIT
(SLIDE MOUNT SYSTEM)
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
WARNING! You must use the full-body fall arrest harness (one has NOT been provided with this product)
that meets or exceeds TMA (Treestand Manufacturer’s
Association) standards and is provided with your treestand (which meets or exceeds TMA standards) or an
aftermarket full-body fall arrest harness which meets or
exceeds TMA standards when installing, removing or using this Tree Stand Buddy® product(s). Failure to follow
these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! This product carries a strict maximum weight
capacity. Do not use this product if you exceed this maximum
weight capacity. Please note this maximum weight capacity
includes the user and equipment. Failure to follow these
instructions may result in serious injury or death!
TREE STAND BUDDY®
STARTER KIT
(SLIDE MOUNT SYSTEM)
Model: Tree Stand Buddy® Slide Mount System
Maximum Weight Capacity - 300 pounds (136 kg) (User and
Equipment)
WARNING! Your Tree Stand Buddy® has a maximum weight capacity of 300-pounds. Please
note your treestand may have a different maximum weight capacity. Please refer to your treestand
Manufacturer’s Instruction Manual for its specific maximum weight capacity. NEVER exceed your
treestand’s maximum weight capacity. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious
injury or death!
Thank you for your purchase of this quality Tree Stand Buddy® product! To ensure your personal
safety, please take the time to carefully read and understand this product Instruction Manual in its
entirety before attempting to set-up, install and/or otherwise use this Tree Stand Buddy® product.
Failure to do so could result in serious personal injury or death! This Tree Stand Buddy® product
has been designed, engineered and manufactured to provide you with years of trouble free service.
Should you have any questions about the installation and/or use of this product, or any other Tree
Stand Buddy® product(s) do not hesitate to call one of our customer service representatives at (877)
987-2723 or visit us on-line at www.treestandbuddy.com or e-mail us at [email protected].
Our service representatives will answer any questions you may have about any of the complete line
of Tree Stand Buddy® products.
1
01-14A
ATTENTION!!
WHEN YOU SEE A “WARNING!” BE SURE TO HEED THE MESSAGE! THE INFORMATION
CONTAINED IN THESE MESSAGES CAN SAVE YOUR LIFE!!
WARNING! Falls from a treestand can occur anytime after leaving the ground. These falls result in either serious injury or death!
For your personal safety, please take the time to carefully read and understand this product Instruction Manual in its entirety before
attempting to assemble, set-up, install and/or otherwise use this Tree Stand Buddy® product. At least annually, review the contents
of this Instruction Manual. Additionally, keep these instructions for the entire time you own this product(s). Failure to follow these
instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! The safe use and operation of this product is the sole responsibility of the user. It is also the sole responsibility of the
owner to provide any person(s) who borrow or purchase this product with these instructions. Failure to follow these instructions
may result in serious injury or death! Additionally, failure to follow these instructions may subject you to personal liability penalties
as determined by the U.S. Judicial system.
WARNING! Prior to each hunt, make sure that you have a signaling device (e.g., mobile phone, cell phone, radio, whistle, signal
flare, Personal Locator Device [PLD], etc.) in your possession and on your person in an operable condition. This device must be
within easy access should you experience the need to contact emergency assistance. Failure to follow these instructions may result
in serious injury or death!
WARNING! Failure to read and strictly comply with the instructions contained in this Instruction Manual may result in serious injury or
death!
PLEASE NOTE THAT “WARNING!” statements have been placed throughout this Instruction Manual. These statements point out
important safety information and instructions, which, if not followed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of the
operator. It is imperative that the operator of this product, or any other Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) read and understand all the
instructions and warnings contained in this Instruction Manual prior to attempting to use this product(s), or any other Tree Stand
Buddy® product(s). Failure to comply with these instructions and/or warnings may result in serious injury or death! When you see
a “WARNING!” statement - BE SURE TO HEED THE MESSAGE!
WARNING! Thoroughly inspect this or any other Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) prior to each use for signs of wear, damage, rot,
corrosion, deterioration and/or any other type of defect. DO NOT expose this product to extended exposure to direct sunlight,
excessive heat and/or freezing temperatures. Do not use this or any other Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) if they show evidence
of wear, rot, corrosion, cracks, deterioration and/or any other type(s) of defect(s). Failure to follow these instructions may result in
serious injury or death!
WARNING! Do not remove, modify and/or omit any portion or otherwise mechanically modify this Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) or
its assemblies in any manner. Modification, misuse and/or part substitution shall immediately void your factory warranty and may
result in serious injury or death! If you suspect that a part(s) is missing and/or defective, immediately contact Tree Stand Buddy®
at (877) 987-2723 for replacement of missing or defective parts. Never modify your stand in any way by making repairs, or altering,
adding or attaching anything to it except if explicitly authorized in writing by Tree Stand Buddy®. ALWAYS USE GENUINE FACTORY
AUTHORIZED TREE STAND BUDDY® REPLACEMENT PARTS. USE OF ANY REPLACEMENT PARTS OTHER THAN GENUINE
Tree Stand Buddy® PARTS VOIDS YOUR WARRANTY AND MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH!
WARNING! This Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) is designed for adult use only. No one under the age of 16 should attempt to use
this or any other Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) without direct adult supervision. Failure to follow these instructions may result in
serious injury or death!
WARNING! Prior to attempting to use this or any other Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) you must take the time and become familiar
with its assembly, setup, installation and removal. You must practice installing, setting-up, using and removing this product(s) at
ground-level prior to attempting to use it at heights above ground-level. Once you have become thoroughly knowledgeable and
comfortable with this Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) set-up, installation, use and removal at ground-level, only then are you ready
to use it at heights above ground-level. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury and death!
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01-14A
ATTENTION!!
WHEN YOU SEE A “WARNING!” BE SURE TO HEED THE MESSAGE! THE INFORMATION
CONTAINED IN THESE MESSAGES CAN SAVE YOUR LIFE!!
WARNING! When hunting from a treestand, falls can occur any time after leaving the ground causing injury or death. Always wear your
full-body fall arrest system (which meets or exceeds TMA standards), comprising a full-body harness, tether, tree belt, linesman belt and
Suspension Relief Device at all times after leaving the ground. You must stay connected at all times after leaving the ground. Single safety
belts and chest harnesses are no longer allowed and should never be used as they put the user at serious risk of injury or death. If you are
not wearing your full-body fall arrest harness that is properly attached to the tree that is protecting you from a fall, do not leave the ground.
Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! Never rely on a tree branch for support while climbing. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! You must always inform someone of your hunting location, where the treestand will be located and the expected duration of the
hunt. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! Inspect all safety devices each time before each use. DO NOT use these devices if it (they) shows signs of wear, damage (from
freezing, excessive heat, etc.), deterioration or vandalism. Factors such as tree growth, vandals, weather and animals may affect the performance of an unattended tree stand. Do not store these devices outdoors when not in use. Failure to follow these instructions may result
in serious injury or death!
WARNING! Practice the use your full-body fall arrest harness at ground-level in the presence of a responsible adult to experience the feeling
of hanging suspended before using in a hunting environment. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! The length of the full-body fall arrest tether must be minimized at all times. It should be adjusted so that it is above the head
with no slack (snug) in the sitting position and you should have the minimum amount of slack possible when climbing. Failure to follow these
instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! Failure to follow the full-body fall arrest harness instructions could result in not being able to return to the stand and being suspended in a harness after a fall. If your hunting location is unknown by anyone and communication efforts are unsuccessful, you must have
a personal plan for self-recovery/escape should you experience a fall. Prolonged suspension in a harness can be fatal. It is important to
exercise the legs by pushing against the tree or doing other forms of continuous leg exercises to avoid blood pooling while being suspended.
Varying degrees of physical fitness may require different plans for self-recovery/escape to avoid the effects of prolonged suspension. Have
a personal plan and practice it in the presence of a responsible adult before leaving the ground. No one escape/rescue plan will work for
every hunter, on every tree, in every circumstance. Only you can determine the best self-recovery/escape plan for your hunting situation and
you must have a self-recovery/escape plan for your individual situation before leaving the ground. There is time to make a correct decision
on what action to take if a fall occurs while wearing a full-body fall arrest harness. It is important to remember, “DO NOT PANIC.” You must
only hunt from the ground when a suitable self-recovery/escape plan is absent. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious
injury or death!
Several optional products/systems are available that offer self-recovery or self extraction from a fall when suspended in a harness. Some
systems automatically descend the user while others allow user control. One of these products/systems can be considered for use as an
additional safety precaution against prolonged suspension and suspension trauma. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions on the
safe use of these products/systems.
WARNING! A suspension relief device must be on your person and readily accessible while using your full-body fall arrest harness. These
devices allow the user to relieve the load on the lower extremities if suspended in a harness and help maintain circulation in the legs, mitigate
suspension trauma (blood pooling) or allow descent to the ground. Be sure to follow the directions on the safe use of any suspension relief
device. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! If you have a limiting physical and/or health condition that precludes and/or renders you incapable of self-recovery and/or a suitable escape plan is not available, DO NOT hunt from heights above ground-level. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious
injury or death!
WARNING! NEVER allow the full-body fall arrest harness lanyard to get under your chin and/or around your neck. This poses a choking
hazard that can lead to serious injury or death. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death
WARNING! Never attempt to climb up or climb down with a weapon and/or gear in your possession. ALWAYS unload your weapon and pull
it up to hunting height using a tether or pull-up (hoisting) rope. ALWAYS lower your unloaded weapon down to the ground prior to attempting
to climb down the tree (when raising or lowering firearms, the chamber must be open and the barrel pointing toward the ground). Use this
same method when raising or lowering all other gear. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! DO NOT attempt to use this and/or any other Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) when ice, snow and/or freezing rain has deposited
or formed on any portion of the tree you intend to climb. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! ALWAYS maintain three-point contact when climbing up/down a tree when using climbing aids (e.g., stick ladders, sectional ladders, steps, etc.). Proper three-point contact means having either two (2) feet with one (1) hand or one (1) foot with two (2) hands on the step
portion of the climbing aids at all times when climbing up or down. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
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01-14A
ATTENTION!!
WHEN YOU SEE A “WARNING!” BE SURE TO HEED THE MESSAGE! THE INFORMATION
CONTAINED IN THESE MESSAGES CAN SAVE YOUR LIFE!!
WARNING! DO NOT modify, fix/repair, alter, bend, cut, weld, drill or heat this product in any way. Failure to follow these instructions will void
warranty and may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! DO NOT lean out from a treestand for any reason. Never use your full-body fall arrest harness to help you lean out of your
treestand. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! DO NOT use this or any other Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) if you have a history of heart problems, back problems, impaired
vision, joints that lock-up, spinal fusions, equilibrium problems, high blood pressure, are not well-rested and/or any other physical impairment that may limit your ability to use and/or operate this product(s) in the safe manner outlined in this Instruction Manual. Additionally,
do not use this or any other Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) if you are currently taking any medication (including prescription) and/or using
and/or consuming any substance, including alcohol, that may limit your ability to use this Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) as outlined and
described in this Instruction Manual. Never use a treestand when feeling ill, nauseous or dizzy. Failure to follow these instructions may
result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! DO NOT attempt to use this or any other Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) when thunderstorms are threatening and/or present
within five (5) miles. Do not attempt to use this or any other Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) when any other adverse weather condition(s)
presents itself. These include weather conditions which have the potential for producing winds, lightning, rain, snow, sleet and/or any other
atmospheric condition which may limit the user’s ability to operate this Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) in a safe manner as described in this
Instruction Manual. Should inclement weather conditions arise during your use of this Tree Stand Buddy® product(s), return to the ground
immediately. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury and death!
WARNING! DO NOT use this product, or attempt to use a treestand, on a dead, leaning, diseased, loose barked tree (bark that flakes or falls
off), irregular shaped trees or utility poles. DO NOT use this product on any tree that does not allow for a level standing platform. Failure to
follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! Never jump or bounce on a treestand to seat it to the tree. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or
death!
WARNING! Hunting and especially hunting from an elevated position should not be attempted by someone who is not in great physical shape or
who has a history of skeletal or medical conditions of any kind. This warning is not to be discounted. There are many hunting alternatives that do not
require the physical exertion and the stamina of hunting from an elevated position. The user assumes all risks of injury in the use of our product. If
at any time you feel uncomfortable using our products, hunting at an elevated position or your health condition changes, discontinue the use of our
products immediately and return to the ground. Failure to follow these instructions will result in serious injury or death!
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR NON-CLIMBING (HANG-ON OR LOCK-ON) TREESTAND USAGE
WARNING! You must use the linesman belt when installing hang-on or lock-on style stands to stabilize yourself. Failure to follow these instructions
may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! Correct tightening and adjustments of all connection hardware is critical to stable hang-on or lock-on treestand installation.
Make certain your treestand is installed in accordance with the Manufacturer’s Instructions. Failure to follow these instructions may result
in serious injury or death!
WARNING! Practice the attachment of hang-on or lock-on treestands at ground-level before using in a hunting environment. Failure to follow
these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! Never leave a treestand in a tree for more than two (2) weeks (14 days) as weather and/or animals can cause damage. Tree
growth can also stress and/or damage straps, chains, ropes, cams and buckles. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious
injury or death!
WARNING! Climbing aids (e.g., stick ladders, sectional ladders, steps, etc.) must extend above the treestand standing platform (at least
24-inches [61 cm]) to allow the user to step down onto the platform. Never step up to your treestand from a climbing aid. Failure to follow
these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! Use a pull-up (hoisting) rope to raise and lower the treestand from the ground. Never climb with anything on your back. Failure
to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! ALWAYS have a second adult present or at least accessible by cell phone or other means when installing/removing or using a
treestand. The ability to get help quickly may save your life in the event of a fall. A good non-slip safety boot is important for your safety. Be
especially careful that bootlaces do not get hooked on the treestand or climbing aids (tuck shoelaces into boot before climbing). Failure to
follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! BEFORE each use, make sure all nuts and carriage bolts are secure. CHECK all hardware and ropes prior to every use to make
sure no damage has occurred to hardware and the ropes are not cut or frayed. Keep rope from coming into contact with any sharp edges. DO
NOT USE THIS PRODUCT IF ANY DAMAGE IS SUSPECTED. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! REPLACE any damaged or warn part with original parts. Store in a dry, cool, safe place away from sunlight. Failure to follow
these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
01-14A
4
FULL-BODY FALL ARREST HARNESS SYSTEM
IMPORTANT NOTE:
A FULL-BODY FALL ARREST HARNESS WHICH MEETS OR EXCEEDS TMA (TREESTAND MANUFACTURER’S ASSOCIATION) STANDARDS HAS NOT BEEN PROVIDED WITH THIS TREE STAND BUDDY®
PRODUCT(S).
We are very serious about your personal safety. A full-body fall arrest harness which meets or exceeds TMA standards must be worn
at all times when using this Tree Stand Buddy® product(s). Please note a full-body fall arrest harness has not been included.
You must use the full-body fall arrest harness which meets or exceeds TMA standards that was provided by the manufacturer of
your particular treestand or an aftermarket full-body fall arrest harness which meets or exceeds TMA standards. You must follow
the instructions for the safe use of that full-body fall arrest harness as outlined in the treestand Manufacturer’s Instruction Manual.
WARNING! Use only the full-body fall arrest harness that meets or exceeds TMA standards and is provided with your
treestand or an aftermarket full-body fall arrest harness that meets or exceeds TMA standards. NOTE: You must store your
full-body harness out of direct sunlight and out of any other harsh environmental condition(s) that may adversely affect its
performance. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
TREE STAND BUDDY® COMPONENTS
E
F
G
A
C
B
D
A. Receiver (tree bracket)
B. Treestand Bracket
C. (2) Four-Hole Mending Plates (Single Upright
Support Stands)
D. (4) 2” Mending Plates (Double Upright Support
Stands)
E. (8) 1/4” x 2” Carriage Bolts
F. (8) 1/4” Locknuts
G. (2) Ratchet Straps
FIGURE 1
TREE STAND BUDDY® STARTER KIT (SLIDE MOUNT SYSTEM) COMPONENTS
WARNING! You must wear and use a full-body fall arrest harness with a linesman belt (which meets or exceeds TMA standards) at all times when setting up, using and/or removing this Tree Stand Buddy® product(s). Note: A harness has not
been provided with this Tree Stand Buddy® product. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
TREE STAND BUDDY® INSTALLATION
Your Tree Stand Buddy® requires some minor assembly prior to use.
WARNING! You must assemble your treestand which meets or exceeds TMA standards in strict accordance with the Manufacturer’s Instruction Manual. Failure to follow the manufacturer’s assembly instructions may result in serious injury or death!
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01-14A
WARNING! This Tree Stand Buddy® product is designed and manufactured for installation on lock-on style (i.e., hang-on
style, semi-permanent style stands) treestands ONLY. It must never be installed on homemade, climbing (i.e., “portable”),
or ladderstand style treestands. Failure to follow these instructions will result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! Failure to assemble this Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) in the manner strictly outlined in this Instruction Manual
will result in damage to the treestand assembly and/or the Tree Stand Buddy® product(s). This will result in structural
damage and/or product malfunction and/or failure. It is of the utmost importance to carefully follow the instructions contained in this Instruction Manual. Failure to follow these instructions will result in serious injury or death!
Should you have any questions about the installation and/or use of this product, or any other Tree Stand Buddy® product(s)
do not hesitate to call one of our customer service representatives at (877) 987-2723. Our service representatives will
answer any questions you may have about any of the complete line of Tree Stand Buddy® products. Or visit us on-line
at www.treestandbuddy.com or e-mail us at [email protected].
WARNING! Prior to attempting to use this or any other Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) you must take the time and become
familiar with it’s setup, installation, use and/or removal at ground-level. You must practice installing, setting-up, using,
or removing this product(s) at ground-level prior to attempting to use it at heights above ground-level. Once you have
become thoroughly knowledgeable and comfortable with this Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) setup, installation, using or
removing at ground-level, you are now ready to use it at heights above ground-level. Failure to follow these instructions
may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! DO NOT overtighten the hardware. Overtightening can lead to structural damage and may negatively affect the
performance of your stand. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
SINGLE & DOUBLE UPRIGHT SUPPORT TREESTANDS
Double Upright
Support
6.5”
Single Upright
Support
Width Cannot
Exceed 6.5”
FIGURE 2
SINGLE AND DOUBLE UPRIGHT
SUPPORT STYLE TREESTANDS
C
(2) Four-Hole Mending Plates
(Single Upright Support Stands)
D
(4) 2” Mending Plates (Double Upright
Support Stands)
There are several configurations of lock-on or hang-on style treestands on the market. Your Tree Stand Buddy® mounts to either a
single upright support or double upright support treestand. These uprights support the seat as shown in Figure 2. It is important that the
correct mending plates (refer to Figure 1) are installed as described
in these Instructions.
NOTE: On double upright support stands, the double upright total
width cannot exceed 6.5” (16.51 cm) (refer to Figure 2). If it does
exceed 6.5”, the Tree Stand Buddy® treestand bracket will not fit.
DO NOT attempt to install your Tree Stand Buddy® on stands with a
measure that exceeds 6.5” (16.51 cm).
WARNING! Each style of stand requires specific hardware.
Follow these installation instructions for each one very carefully. Failure to follow these instructions will result in damage
to the treestand and may result in serious injury or death!
NOTE: There are two (2) sizes of mending plates. These mending
plates are designed for specific applications. Each has a purpose,
and must be installed as outlined in this Instruction Manual. The two
(2) four-hole mending plates (C) (refer to Figure 1) are designed
for treestands with a single upright support (refer to Figure 2). The
four (4) 2” mending plates (D) (refer to Figure 1) are designed for
treestands with double upright supports (refer to Figure 2). Proper
installation of these mending plates is required for a safe treestand
operation.
TREE STAND BUDDY® INSTALLATION CONTINUED
WARNING! DO NOT overtighten the hardware. Overtightening hardware can lead to structural damage and may negatively
affect the performance of your stand. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
STEP 1: Determine which style of treestand (i.e., single or double upright support) you are installing your Tree Stand Buddy®
Starter Kit (Slide Mount System) onto (refer to Figure 2). For single upright support installation refer to the section “SINGLE
UPRIGHT SUPPORT INSTALLATION.” For double upright support installation refer to the section entitled “DOUBLE UPRIGHT
SUPPORT INSTALLATION.”
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6
SINGLE UPRIGHT SUPPORT INSTALLATION
STEP 1: These instructions apply to single upright support treestands installation only (refer to Figure 2).
STEP 2: With your treestand (which meets or exceeds TMA standards) assembled in strict accordance with the Manufacturer’s
Instructions, locate the two (2) four-hole mending plates (C) as shown in Figure 3. You have two (2) mounting options with these
mending plates. Depending on the diameter of your treestands single upright support, you can custom fit the four-hole mending
plates (C) to your particular treestand. The four-hole mending plates (C) accommodate two (2) sizes of single upright supports.
By simply rotating the four-hole mending plates (C) two (2) different diameter upright support sizes can be accommodated (refer
to Figure 3).
1.5”
1.25”
FIGURE 3
FOUR-HOLE MENDING PLATES
ROTATED TO ACCOMMODATE DIFFERENT
SIZE SUPPORTS
FIGURE 4
FOUR-HOLE MENDING PLATE
MOUNTED TO TREESTAND
BRACKET
FIGURE 5
SNUG FIT AGAINST
SINGLE UPRIGHT SUPPORT
STEP 3: Mount the two (2) four-hole mending plates (C) around the single upright on your treestand
and to the treestand bracket (B) (refer to Figure 1) using four (4) 1/4” x 2” carriage bolts (E) and four (4)
1/4” lock nuts (F) (refer to Figure 1) as shown in Figure 4. Make certain the four-hole mending plates
(C) are oriented in the direction which allows for the tightest and snuggest fit against the single upright
support as shown in Figure 5. NOTE: The carriage bolt heads should be placed in the slot side of the
treestand bracket (B) as shown in Figure 4. Once you have assured the snuggest fit, tighten the four (4)
1/4” locknuts using one (1) 7/16” wrench (not provided). DO NOT overtighten the locknuts. Make certain
the open end of the treestand bracket (B) is facing upward.
WARNING! Overtightening the locknuts may result in crushing the treestand’s upright support
leading to failure of the treestand. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury
or death!
SINGLE UPRIGHT
STEP 4: Check to make sure the treestand bracket (B), two (2) four-hole mending plates (C) and
the treestand upright support are square. If they are in a condition other than square, loosen the
hardware and square the components. Retighten the hardware being careful not to overtighten. Your
Tree Stand Buddy® treestand bracket (B) is now installed.
SUPPORT TREESTAND
BRACKET
INSTALLED
CORRECTLY
DOUBLE UPRIGHT SUPPORT INSTALLATION
STEP 1: These instructions apply to double upright support treestands installation only (refer to
Figure 2).
STEP 2: With your treestand (which meets or exceeds TMA standards) assembled in strict accordance
with the Manufacturer’s Instructions, locate the four (4) 2” mending plates (D) (refer to Figure 1).
Mount the four (4) 2” mending plates (D) around the double upright supports and onto the treestand
bracket (B) (refer to Figure 1) using eight (8) 1/4” x 2” carriage bolts (E) and eight (8) 1/4” lock nuts (F)
(refer to Figure 1). NOTE: The carriage bolt heads should be placed in the slot side of the treestand
bracket (B) as shown in Figure 4. Once you have assured the snuggest fit, tighten the eight (8) 1/4”
locknuts using one (1) 7/16” wrench (not provided). DO NOT overtighten. Make certain the open end
of the treestand bracket (B) is facing upward.
WARNING! Overtightening the locknuts may result in crushing the treestand’s upright supports leading to failure of the treestand. Failure to follow these instructions may result in
serious injury or death!
STEP 3: Check to make sure the treestand bracket (B), 2” mending plates (D) and the treestand
upright supports are square. If they are in a condition other than square, loosen the hardware and
square the components. Retighten the hardware being careful not to overtighten the hardware. Your
Tree Stand Buddy® treestand bracket (B) is now installed.
DOUBLE UPRIGHT
SUPPORT
TREESTAND BRACKET
INSTALLED
CORRECTLY
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01-14A
INSTALLING YOUR TREE STAND BUDDY®
WARNING! You must wear and use a full-body fall arrest harness with a linesman belt, which meets or
exceeds TMA standards (one is not provided), at all times when setting up, using and/or removing this
Tree Stand Buddy® product(s). Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! STOP NOW! Make sure you are wearing (and use) your full-body fall arrest harness and
linesman belt (which meets or exceeds TMA standards), as shown in Figure 6. Failure to follow these
instructions may result in serious injury or death!
STEP 1: Select a straight healthy tree, one devoid of dead branches with a minimum diameter of 9” (23 cm)
and one that does not exceed 22” (56 cm) in diameter.
NOTE: One very important note regarding the installation of your climbing aid (i.e., stacking sticks, ladders,
sectionals, etc.) is that it should meet or exceed TMA standards. You must install the climbing aid so the
steps extend a minimum of 2’ (24” inches [61 cm]) (refer to Figure 7) above your standing platform height.
This practice insures you are stepping off of the climbing aid and down onto the standing platform. This
practice also insures you have a firm and secure hand-hold while stepping onto your treestand.
FIGURE 6
WEARING
LINESMAN BELT
WARNING! Install your climbing aid so it extends a minimum of 24-inches above the standing platform. Failure to follow these instructions may
result in serious injury or death!
STEP 2: With your climbing aid installed (i.e., stacking sticks, ladders, sectionals,
etc.), which meets or exceeds TMA standards, as outlined in the Manufacturer’s
Instruction Manual, you are now ready to install your receiver (A) (refer to Figure
1).
NOTE: Always maintain three-points of contact when climbing up/down climbing aids. Always use a pull-up (hoisting) rope to raise and lower your treestand
from the ground. Never climb with anything on your back and/or in your hands.
WARNING! Never attempt to climb a tree with your treestand in hand or on your back.
ALWAYS use a pull-up (hoisting) rope or strap to pull (hoist) your receiver (A) up to
the desired installation height. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious
injury or death!
FIGURE 7
CLIMBING AID ABOVE
STANDING PLATFORM
STEP 3: Locate the receiver (A) and the two (2) ratchet straps (G) (refer to Figure 1).
While at ground-level, tie the pull-up (hoisting) rope to the receiver (A) hoisting loop. The hoisting loop is depicted in Figure 8.
NOTE: It is recommended you use a 3/8” nylon pull-up (hoisting) rope which is in good repair and free from any defects. You
must check the integrity of this pull-up (hoisting) rope prior to each and every use. If it shows any signs of wear, fraying or any
other defects, remove it from service and replace it with a new rope.
STEP 4: Place the ratchet straps somewhere out of the way (i.e., fanny pack) and ensure you have the pull-up (hoisting) rope
in your possession.
FIGURE 8
HOISTING LOOP
FIGURE 9
HOLD TREE
RECEIVER AGAINST TREE TRUNK
FIGURE 10
UPPER RATCHET STRAP
HOLES (LOWER HOLES ON BOTTOM OF RECEIVER)
STEP 5: Ensure that your linesman belt, which meets or exceeds TMA standards, is properly secured and attached to the tree
(as outlined in the Manufacturer’s Instruction Manual) and carefully climb to the desired height. NOTE: Be certain to take your
pull-up (hoisting) rope with you. When at the desired height, re-check to ensure that your linesman belt is properly secured to
you and the tree. While making sure that you are balanced and secure on your climbing aid, pull the receiver (A) up by using
the pull-up (hoisting) rope.
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STEP 6: With your receiver (A) at the desired installation height, hold the receiver (A) against the tree trunk as shown in Figure 9.
Make certain the hoisting loop is located on the bottom.
NOTE: Your ratchet straps (G) come pre-threaded. Should you require to thread them, refer to Figure 11 for detailed threading instructions. NEVER attempt to thread a ratchet strap at heights above ground-level.
WARNING! Never attempt to thread a ratchet strap(s) at heights above ground-level. Failure to follow these instructions may
result in serious injury or death!
STEP 7: Place one (1) ratchet strap (G) hook on the top ratchet strap hole on the back side of the receiver (A). Figure 10 depicts the
location of the top receiver ratchet strap holes. Wrap the ratchet strap (G) around the back side of the tree trunk and attach the other
hook to the opposite side receiver ratchet strap hole. Gently snug down, however, do not tighten.
STEP 8: With the top ratchet strap (G) installed, repeat STEP 7 for the lower ratchet strap making certain to install the second ratchet
strap (G) onto the lower receiver holes. With both straps installed and the receiver (A) square to the tree trunk, you may now tighten both
ratchet straps (G). Make certain the ratchet straps (G) are very tight. Figure 12 depicts a receiver installed correctly.
NOTE: With your receiver (A) installed, untie the pull-up (hoisting) rope and slip it through the receiver hoisting loop as shown in Figure
13 and allow it to extend to the ground below. This practice allows you to be able to pull-up (hoist) your treestand from ground-level into
the desired mounting position.
FIGURE 11
RATCHET STRAP THREADING
Lag Bolt Holes
FIGURE 12
RECEIVER INSTALLED
CORRECTLY
IMPORTANT NOTE REGARDING LAG BOLT HOLES
There are four (4) lag bolt holes on your Tree Stand
Buddy® receiver (refer to Figure 14). These are
provided for additional security.
They are NOT provided as a stand alone method of
securing the Tree Stand Buddy® receiver.
These lag bolt holes are to be used in ADDITION to
the two (2) Tree Stand Buddy® ratchet straps AND
your treestand manufacturer’s connection system
(i.e., treestand manufacturer’s ratchet straps, chains,
ropes, etc.) which is not provided.
FIGURE 13
PULL-UP (HOISTING) ROPE
THREADED THROUGH RECEIVER
LOOP
FIGURE 14
FOUR LAG
BOLT HOLES
Check with local, state and federal regulations prior
to installing lag bolts in a tree as this is regulated
in some states.
WARNING! You must use the two (2) Tree Stand Buddy® ratchet straps that came with this Starter Kit
(Slide Mount System) to install the receiver (A). Under no circumstances may you replace these ratchet
straps with other manufacturer’s ratchet straps or other attachment devices (i.e., chains, ropes, turnbuckles, etc.). Failure to follow these instructions will result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! You must never attempt to install or use a treestand installed on a Tree Stand Buddy® receiver that is only installed (mounted) with the lag bolts. This presents a very unsafe condition which
will lead to treestand failure. Failure to follow these instructions WILL lead to serious injury or death!
STEP 9: While standing at ground-level, with your pull-up (hoisting) rope within reach, tie one tag end of the rope to your treestand assembly.
NOTE: It is recommended you use a 3/8” nylon pull-up (hoisting) rope which is in good repair and free from any defects. You
must check the integrity of this pull-up (hoisting) rope prior to each and every use. If it shows any signs of wear, fraying or any
other defects, remove it from service and replace it with a new rope.
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STEP 10: You are now ready to pull-up (hoist) your treestand to
installation height.
NOTE: DO NOT pull-up (hoist) your treestand to the exact height
of the receiver (A). Allow your treestand to hang approximately 18”
below the hoisting loop. This will afford you enough slack rope to
mount the treestand to the receiver (A).
STEP 11: With your treestand hoisted to the installation height, tie the
rope’s free end to the tree trunk. Never tie the rope to your climbing
aids as this may impede your ability to climb safely.
FIGURE 15
SEATING/STANDING
PLATFORMS FOLDED
Climb back up to installation height using your linesman belt (which
meets or exceeds TMA standards) as previously outlined above. With
your treestand still in the folded position, gently slide your treestand
bracket (B) onto the receiver (A) by aligning the treestand bracket
(B) with the receiver (A) and gently lowering it onto the receiver (A).
Figure 15 depicts the folded treestand mounted on the treestand
bracket (B).
FIGURE 16
TREESTAND
PLATFORMS LEVEL
STEP 12: With your treestand firmly seated onto the receiver (A), and the seating and standing platforms still in the folded position (refer to
Figure 15), install the treestand manufacturer’s provided ratchet strap(s) or other connection devices that were supplied with your treestand,
which meets or exceeds TMA standards, as instructed in the treestand Manufacturer’s Instruction Manual. With the treestand manufacturer’s
connection devices installed as per their instructions, you may now lower the seating and standing platforms.
WARNING! You must install the treestand manufacturer’s supplied ratchet straps or other connection devices as outlined in the Manufacturer’s Instruction Manual. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
NOTE: The treestand seat and the standing platform should be in a level position. If they are not, you must uninstall the receiver (A) and re-install the
receiver in a level position. If you are unable to achieve a level position, remove your treestand and Tree Stand Buddy® and reinstall them on another
tree which affords level installation. Figure 16 depicts a level treestand installation. Please note the seating and standing platforms are level.
WARNING! Hunting from an unlevel treestand puts you at risk of serious injury or death. Never hunt from an unlevel treestand. Failure to follow
these instructions will result in serious injury or death!
STEP 13: With installation complete, leave your pull-up (hoisting) rope connected to the treestand. This practice simplifies the removal process.
TREESTAND REMOVAL/RECEIVER REMOVAL
WARNING! STOP NOW!!!!! Make sure that you are wearing your full-body fall arrest harness which meets or exceeds TMA standards
(one is not provided)! Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
WARNING! Prior to attempting to use this or any other Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) you must take the time and become familiar with
its setup, installation, use and/or removal at ground-level. You must practice installing, setting-up, using and removing this product(s)
at ground-level prior to attempting to use it at heights above ground-level. Once you have become thoroughly knowledgeable and
comfortable with this Tree Stand Buddy® product(s) setup, installation, use and removal at ground-level, you are now ready to use it at heights
above ground-level. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death!
TREESTAND REMOVAL
STEP 1: With your pull-up (hoist) rope still threaded through the hoisting loop (refer to Figure 13) and tied off to the tree and treestand, using your fullbody fall arrest linesman belt (which meets or exceeds TMA standards), climb to your treestand height (unless you are already in your treestand). Make certain your full-body fall arrest tether is attached to the tree trunk (DO NOT ATTACH YOUR FULL-BODY FALL ARREST HARNESS
TO YOUR CLIMBING AID). UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCE SHOULD YOU CONNECT YOUR PULL-UP (HOISTING) ROPE TO YOUR PERSON.
STEP 2: While standing safely on your climbing aid with your full-body fall arrest harness tether and linesman belt attached, gently remove the manufacturer supplied attachment means (i.e., ratchet straps, chain(s), etc.). Gently fold the seating and standing platforms up as shown in Figure 15. Slide
the Tree Stand Buddy® treestand bracket (B) and treestand assembly out of the receiver (A) and let it hang from the pull-up (hoisting) rope. You may
now climb back down to ground-level while maintaining three points of contact. Once there, gently lower your treestand down to ground-level.
RECEIVER REMOVAL
STEP 1: With your treestand removed as previously outlined, and while standing safely on your climbing aid with your full-body fall arrest tether attached to the tree trunk (DO NOT ATTACH YOUR FULL-BODY FALL ARREST HARNESS TO YOUR CLIMBING AID) and your linesman belt attached,
secure your pull-up (hoisting) rope to the hoisting loop (refer to Figure 8) on the receiver (A). While holding the receiver against the tree, remove the
two (2) previously installed ratchet straps (G). With these ratchet straps (G) removed, you may now gently lower the receiver (A) to the ground. You
may now lower the tag end of the rope to ground-level before climbing down.
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