5
2. WINCH OPERATION WARNINGS (CONT’D)
BATTERY
• Be sure that the battery is in good condition. Avoid contact with battery acid or other
contaminants.
• Always wear eye protection when working around a battery.
•
Have the engine running when using the winch, to avoid flattening the battery. Use a
minimum 650CCA battery.
WINCH ROPE
• Be sure that the rope is in good condition and is attached properly. Check rope for wear or
damage after each use. If worn or damaged it must be replaced.
• Do not use the winch if rope is frayed or damaged.
• The life of the rope is directly related to the use and care it receives. It must be wound
on to the drum under a load at approx. (150kg) or the outer wraps will draw into the inner
wraps and severely damage the rope during winching. The first winch use should be a
familiarization run while in a relaxed, non-recovery situation. Spool out the rope until 8 wraps
left on the drum, then rewind the rope on to the drum under a load of (150kg) or more. This
will slightly tension and stretch the new rope and create a tight rope wrap around the drum.
Failure to do so may result in rope damage and reduced rope life.
• When the rope is replaced, be sure to apply Loctite, or an equal compound, to the rope
clamp thread. Tighten the clamp screw properly but do not over tighten. The Loctite will
help prevent loosening of the screw in arduous conditions.
• Loctite 7471 Primer and 222 Thread locker are recommended.
• Inspect the rope after each use. If the rope becomes worn or damaged it must be replaced.
• DO NOT attempt to exceed the pulling limits of this winch.
• DO NOT drive your vehicle to assist the winch in any way. Vehicle movement in combination
with winch operation may overload the rope, the winch itself or cause damaging shock
loads.
• Shock loads when winching are dangerous! A shock load occurs when an increased force is
suddenly applied to the rope. A vehicle rolling back on a slack rope may induce a damaging
shock load.
• The winches shown in this manual are solely for vehicle and boat mounted,
non-industrial applications.
• Do not use winch in hoisting or lifting applications.
• Do not use the winch to lift, support or otherwise transport people.
