Plasma cable or some such ? (6 Viewers)

[Kalawang]

Has anybody used the new Plasma Cable or some such for more than a few months ? If so what's the use and wear life of this cable ? I've read a few hints that there's a limited life to it and would like to know if it lasts long enough to be worth the cost of getting one. I would probably be doubling the price by the time I get it on my winch, so I really need some good feedback on it.

I'm looking for the following info:

1. Does it deteriorate from dust and dirt collecting in the coils from non use ?

2. Does it have a limited number of uses and what causes the limitation if any ? You can see the limits of steel cable from the fraying and rust, but what are the signs on the Plasma or some such ?

3. Is it easy to cut with an idle knife ? There are kids everywhere.


Kalawang

 

[Junk]

EVERY WINCH CABLE SHOULD BE CONSIDERED A CONSUMABLE.

Seriously, not enough folks spend the time maintaining and/or inspecting this stuff. To be candid, not doing this is just plain stupid and negligent.

Search through the chat archives and you'll see a thread about someone losing their leg (I think it was a friend of TJDIV but could be wrong).

Synthetic cable is the ONLY way to go. Been using it for years. Check in the outfitting section for more robust views on the different mfgs. I've used several different brands.

 

[woody]

I ordered mine thru RockStomper, there are dozens offering it, including a few in the Vendor corner worth supporting.

Love the stuff....much easier to handle on the trail, much lighter. I wouldn't call it an "easy" cut, but if someone wanted to deliberately be an ass, they sure could....

I've had mine on for over 2 years, lots of abuse, and no issues. Garage kept tho, and regularly maintained, so that helps with longevity.

Wire was replaced yearly since I'd always end up with a kink or a busted wire to catch on my gloves. Normally, that happened the first trip out, and I'd be stuck with it the remainder of the season too....

 

[reffug]

Yup got plasma on my rig as well. Not garaged but I do maintain it, i.e. reguarly unspool and check the rope before respooling ususally trying to change the exposed side. Great stuff love it, much easier to handle than cable.

 

[Kalawang]

Junk, Woody and Reffug,

Thank you for the information. I suppose two years without issues is good enough for the safety and ease of handling. I do admit to a real reluctance to handle my wire as there is one sharp thingy that tries to catch me even through the thick cloth I try to protect my hands with, and it's heavy and awkward.

I'll order a pair as they probably keep well enough if not yet used.


Kalawang

 

[4x4CPOSEADOG]

Steel cables are dangerous when they snap, it could become a missile and that hook can kill you.

Get the synthetic rope!

 

[Junk]

Kalawang,
You won't be sorry. I saw two steel cables snap last year when out. Luckily no one was hurt, but it definitely reinforced my fondness for the synthetic.

 

[helocat]

lots of abuse,

Naaa not you..


I will never go back to wire rope! Rockstomper stuff here as well.

Mark