Need to Replace Winch Drum Due to Rust? (1 Viewer)

[GraniteChief]

I just picked up an old Warn x8000i for cheap and the drum is pretty rusty. My plan was to hit it with a wire wheel, paint it, and throw some synthetic line on it. There are some serious flakes that need to come off though, which got me wondering if these things ever break on people after getting weakened by rust. Is this safe to use? Would you guys run it?

 

[GraniteChief]

Better pictures

 

[D0g]

It's pretty common to see them rusty like that, especially if you live somewhere where road salt is used. It's alright to just clean it up, unless you can poke your finger through it or it's severely compromised.

 

[woodsman 44]

Take the drum off and have it sandblasted, inside as well and inspect it...most drums are pretty thick but rust can take its toll if deeply pitted.

One could weld a smaller tube inside the drum I.D. for insurance if looks really bad....

 

[GraniteChief]

Welp, it’s deep enough to come off with a hammer, but I’m leaning towards D0g’s perspective. I’m going to clean it up and see what happens unless seeing these chips change anyone’s mind.

 

[thebigredrocker]

Or instead of removing every bit of rust, just scuff all the loose crap off and paint it with POR-15.

 

[subzali]

how much is a new drum from Warn?

 

[gnob]

<$100

how much is a new drum from Warn?

 

[GraniteChief]

<$100

I didn’t realize they were so cheap. It looks like they can be had for $60 assuming I can swap over the brake assembly. You think a new one is worth it?

 

[gnob]

Time is money....

 

[GraniteChief]

It took about 10 minutes to clean it up, it’s pretty darn pitted. ?

 

[subzali]

How hard do you plan on using your winch? It would probably be ok except for that heavy pull where you're buried in deep snow and are risking snapping your winch line as well.

 

[cme4lyt]

I refurb Warn winches all the time, have 3 on my bench right now, and I have seen drums as bad as that. I have them sandblasted and powder coated and they always come out great. I’d clean it up and run it !

 

[GraniteChief]

I refurb Warn winches all the time, have 3 on my bench right now, and I have seen drums as bad as that. I have them sandblasted and powder coated and they always come out great. I’d clean it up and run it !

Good to hear! I’m gonna run it, if I ever snap it I’ll be sure to post pictures of the carnage.