If you own a winch, then it’s important that you undertake regular winch maintenance. This is important for not only ensuring the longevity of your winch, but also to ensure that it’s both safe and reliable to use for your operations.
For consistent use of your winch, follow our top winch maintenance tips. Read on below as we discuss these in more detail.
Undertake Regular Inspections
One of the easiest ways to check the health of your winch is by completing visual inspections. This allows you to identify any obvious defects that require immediate attention. Some things to look out for in particular include:
- Cracks
- Corrosion
- Proper cable spooling around the drum
- Water intrusion
- Damaged bearings
Anything that you notice doesn’t look quite right can then be inspected further to see what repair work is required, ensuring your winch is in top shape.
Ensure Proper Cleaning & Lubrication
If your winch sees regular use or is often exposed to harsh elements, then it’s important to make sure that it’s regularly cleaned. Any old grease should be removed from all of the winch connections using some solvent-based cleaner (such as mineral spirits), with the general surfaces of the winch and between the gear teeth being wiped down, also.
As well as cleaning your winch, it’s also a good idea to ensure its moving parts are adequately lubricated. This may include lubricating the gears, roller bearings, springs and the winch cable. Make sure you use the correct type of lubricant for each part.
Thoroughly Inspect Cables & Ropes
The winch cable or rope is another important component of the winch that requires thorough inspection.
Remember to check this for any fraying, kinks or signs of wear, as these can all impact the integrity of the cable. Your cable should also be replaced every so often; for synthetic rope, it’s recommended to replace this every two to three years, whilst wire cable should be replaced if there are six or more broken wires in one lay.
Keep Detailed Maintenance Records
As well as performing all the necessary maintenance and checks, it’s important that you keep a detailed record of this.
Routine winch servicing is not only important for safety and regulation compliance, but is useful for you to stay on top of the status of your winch and its health.
Reliable Servicing from Winch Specialists
If your winch is due for a service, then look to us here at Atlas Winch & Hoist Services. As well as our winch products, we also offer professional winch servicing and repairs – all of which is undertaken by our experienced engineers.
To arrange your winch service, then don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.
