Step (3)
Using moderate tension, such as winching the rolling vehicle across a
level parking lot, wind the line onto the drum. A minimum of 8 wraps
of the first layer of synthetic rope must remain on the drum at all
times during winching. This is to ensure that the rope remains
securely fastened to the drum.
Rope taped around drum
Synthetic Winch Rope Inspection:
When rope is new, it has a smooth finish (fig. 1). When the rope is first used, the outer filaments of the rope will
roughen and give the rope a slightly 'fuzzy' appearance (fig. 2). This condition of the outer filaments creates a
rougher rope surface and actually helps to protect the fibers underneath. Rope must be replaced when
approximately 25% of the visible outer fibers exhibit abrasion (fig. 3).
fig. 3
fig. 1
fig. 2
Used Rope
New Rope
Rope must be replaced
Examine both inner and outer fibers. Open the strands of the rope by compressing the rope length-wise (fig. 4)
and look for powdered fiber and abrasion - this is a sign of internal wear of the rope. Estimate internal fiber loss
to include in your determination of overall abrasion fiber loss of the rope.
fig. 4
fig. 5
Compressing Rope Length-wise
Glossy or glazed rope
Glossy or glazed areas in the rope (fig. 4) can be the result of 2 different conditions. The most common form of
glossing or glazing is caused by compression, which can be occur when the rope is wound on the winch drum, or
through a pulley block. Compressing the rope length-wise (fig. 5) will generally make the rope more pliable and
begin to resemble normal rope. If the glazed section remains hardened, this can be a sign of heat damage, and
the rope must be replaced.
Tips for prolonging the life of your synthetic rope:
It is your responsibility to exercise proper care to prolong the life of your synthetic winch rope.
1) Minimize rope abrasion. Use the movable abrasion sleeve whenever the rope comes in contact with rocks or
other objects. Slide the sleeve up and down the rope as required. Abrasion will reduce rope life.
2) Keep the rope clean. Allowing dirt and debris to enter the rope will lead to abrasion of the rope.
3) Avoid sharp bends. A sharp bend in the rope decreases its strength substantially under load and may cause rope
damage or failure.
4) Use a pulley block for all loads over 1/2 of rated winch capacity.
Superwinch, LLC, Lake Road, Dayville, CT 06241 • 860-928-7787 • FAX: 860-963-0811