Winch Operation Warnings
Read the following carefully before attempting to operate your winch and keep the instructions for
future reference.
1. The uneven spooling of rope, while pulling a load, is not a problem, unless there is rope stacked
up on one end of the drum. If this happens reverse the winch to relieve the load and move your
anchor point further to the center of the vehicle. Once complete, you can unspool and rewind for
a more balanced lay of the rope.
2. Store the remote control switch inside your vehicle where it will not get damaged. Inspect it
before you plug in.
3. When ready to begin spooling in, plug in remote control switch with clutch disengaged. Do not
engage clutch with motor running.
4. Never connect the hook back to the rope as this causes rope damage. Always use a sling or
chain of suitable strength.
5. Observe your winch while winching if possible, while standing at a safe distance. Stop the
winching process every meter or so to assure the rope is not pulling up in one corner. Jamming
the rope can break your winch.
6. Do not attach tow hook to winch mounting plate. It must be attached to vehicle frame.
7. The use of a snatch block will aid recovery operations by doubling the winch capacity, halving
the winching speed and helps to maintain direct line pull to the centre of the rollers. While double
loading, the winch hook should be attached to the chassis of the vehicle.
8. Ensure rated "D" or bow shackles are used in conjunction with an approved tree trunk protector
to provide a safe anchor point.
9. When extending winch rope, ensure that at least eight wraps of rope remain on drum at all
times. Failure to do this could result in the rope parting from the drum under load. Serious
personal injury or property damage may result.
10. All winches are provided with a red marking on the rope which identifies
where (8) rope wraps remain on the winch drum. No recovery should be
attempted beyond this marking or serious injury may occur.
11. Since the maximum line pull is achieved on the fi rst layer of the winch, it is desirable to pull off
as much line as you can for heavy pulls. Doubling or tripling using snatch blocks can help. You
must leave at least eight wraps minimum on the drum or see no red rope exposed!
12. Draping a heavy blanket or similar object over the extended winch rope is recommended as it
will dampen any back lash should a failure occur.
13. Neat, tight spooling avoids rope binding, which is caused when a load is applied and the rope
is pinched between the others. If this happens, alternatively power the winch in and out. Do not
attempt to work a bound rope under load, free by hand.
14. Apply blocks to wheels when vehicles are on an incline.
15. 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 rapid degradation of the battery.
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