Winch Protocol and instructions...

[weever]

OK so I recently installeda ARB Bull Bar Fog Lights,Marker Lights and Warn 9000 Winch on the FJ. I did all the work by myself as I wanted to know "all I can " about my gear. I added the winch because I did not want to have to try to do it later and have to remove the bumper again etc.etc. I am not sure ifwhen I will actually use the winch other than training with it but want to be prepared Just in case! I am interested in winching primarily and think dual battery philosophy should be in another thread....

Anyway those of you seasond people please take the time to let us Rookies the protocol on a new winch cable and how to break it in properly , stretching?

Also please post any tips or anything else you might want to let a novice know including proper spooling!

 

[BC_FJC]

Follow the MFG's instructions and load the cable up properly the first time. I was like you and didn't know when I would need to use a winch I have been offloading for 15+ years and have never had one. I had always made due with a high lift and a come-a-long, I have not had to use if for self-recovery yet but have used it on almost every outing since I installed it helping others. I have been respooling mine after every outing that I use it but don't think that it is necessary.
Have Fun,

 

[Corey]

Here is a good video I have posted many a time in the past from winch maker Ramsey.
http://www.ramsey.com/automotive/video.html

Also consider replacing the steel line with a synthetic one.
They are much safer and just as strong if not stronger.

Here is a chart I have hosted on my server that I scanned in from my Warn winch.
Very useful tips, and worth printing out to take along with you on a run.

 

[Runner Ryan]

The problem with synthetic winch rope is, it isn't as durable as the steel line. If you live in a wet and dirty area, the dirt gets inside the rope, and will destroy it from the inside. Also, it can't handle the knicks from rocks as well. Not to mention the cost......

 

[Corey]

Professional rock crawling championships have outlawed steel cable from what I have heard.

 

[Runner Ryan]

That may be true. But they also replace their cable much more often.
Synthetic rope is by far better than steel. As long as you can afford to replace it every few months or so, or year or whatever. Most people won't ever replace their cable, so steel is the better choice.

 

[Beowulf]

Weever,
The Warn instruction booklet that comes with the Warn M12000, recommends to respool new cable after you install the winch and before the first use. The purpose is to tension and stretch the new winch cable.

Basically, you will find a slight incline, attach the end of the winch cable to an appropriate anchor, unspool the cable leaving at least 5 wraps on the drum, and start taking in line as the winch pulls your vehicle toward the anchor.

Here is the "Winching Techniques" booklet from Warn's web site.

-B-

 

[Tools R Us]

In any recovery operation the loads are high, along with the risk of damage and/or injury, proper rigging is critical. Pirate hosts a good article on the subject;

http://www.pirate4x4.com/tech/billavista/Recovery/index.html

 

[weever]

Thanks every one for all the tips...your info should satisfy my hunger for a while....THANKS!!!!!!

 

[fullnelson]

Bill Burke has an excellent DVD called "Getting Unstuck" that covers winching safety and usage in addition to other recovery methods. I highly reccomend it.

bb4wa.com

 

[weever]

OK SO I recently "Spooled" the winch line per the instruction mentioned..It worked like a charm. I did 5 wraps by hand....with the with the vehicle in Neutral and light breaking I reeled it in and it spooled just like from the factory...Pretty cool!!!!!! I apprecaite the info .....keep it coming....! thanx