Winch Maintenance: Practical Tips from Pickup.ro

“Better safe than sorry” – does this saying sound familiar?

Well, it also applies to pick-up accessories, especially winches.  

Like any other piece of equipment, a winch requires regular care and maintenance to function properly and last over time.

Some of you use a winch with a steel cable, while others use one with a synthetic rope. Regardless of the model, one thing is certain: if you want to avoid unpleasant surprises on the trail, you should regularly inspect your winch cable. 

Why should you inspect your winch cable?

When you set off on new adventures, you rely heavily on your winch, especially when you encounter muddy trails or obstacles. A rope that is not in optimal working condition can break suddenly. Not only could you get stuck, but it could also lead to serious accidents.

Our recommendation is to be responsible and inspect your winch rope regularly. 

How do you properly inspect your winch cable?

Make sure the winch is switched off and the vehicle is parked on a level surface with the handbrake engaged. Wear protective gloves during this process. 

Release the cable: Place the winch clutch in the "freespool" position. This will allow you to pull the cable out easily.

Carefully pull the cable down until you reach the attachment point on the drum. Inspect this point carefully. Make sure the anchor is in perfect condition and securely attached to the drum. If you notice any looseness or damage, secure it properly again or, if necessary, replace it with a new one.

Winches and cables come with different types of anchors. When replacing an anchor, make sure you use exactly the original type to ensure a secure attachment.

Continue pulling the cable out, checking its entire length. 

If you have a winch with a steel cable, carefully look for signs of rust, kinks, cuts or breaks. If you find any of these signs, the cable should be replaced. 

If you have a winch with a synthetic rope, carefully look for signs of fraying or an unkempt appearance. If the rope looks "frayed" or has many small broken fibres (as if it needs a "haircut"), this is a clear sign that it has reached the end of its service life. If you notice an approximately 10% reduction in fibre volume due to abrasion, the rope must be replaced.

Other signs of wear you may encounter include adjacent cut fibres, fibre compression and slight glazing. 

After the inspection, make sure to rewind the cable evenly and neatly onto the drum. Improper rewinding can lead to blockages or further damage.

Your winch cable is a vital element for the safety and success of your off-road adventures. Regular inspection and proper maintenance are not just recommendations, but necessities. Do not neglect these aspects and you will have a reliable winch that can get you out of difficult situations.

At Pickup.ro, you will find a wide range of quality accessories for pick-ups, including winches of different types and capacities. Our sales team will be happy to answer any questions you may have about winch maintenance or operation.