I just read the AOPA ePilot Flight Training Edition -- Vol. 4, Issue 4 from
January and under Training Tips and they reference "The Tiedowns that Bind"
from the October 2000 AOPA Flight Training.

See: http://www.aopa.org/members/ftmag/ar...m?article=3811

The author says "It's important to leave a little slack in each line,
especially if you are expecting gusty wind conditions. Slack will allow the
airplane to move a little. Without any slack, a strong gust could damage the
airframe." I have always kept mine tight so the plane can't move around.
My feeling is the slack will allow the plane to move and then jerk to a
stop. Does anyone know the proper method and the reason?

Roger @ MD43 C150E