Winches are often used in harsh conditions like snow, water, dirt and sand, which can cause significant destructive force to your winch.
This is why it is important to regularly service and care for your winch to ensure optimum and safe operation. Routine maintenance is the key to getting the most out of your winch and will drastically prolong its lifespan.
Dive into this comprehensive guide to caring for your winch, so that you can be assured that your winch is working as it should.
Inspection
Always inspect your winch before and after use, to make sure there is no damage. Ensure that you check the tightness of the mounting bolts and verify there are no loose components or fasteners.
Rope
Like every item on a vehicle, synthetic ropes have to be maintained in order to retain their strength and function properly. Taking the proper precautions while winching and performing regular maintenance on your ropes will keep them working for a long time.
Whether you are using wire or synthetic ropes, always inspect the rope before use, to ensure that there is no fraying. If the rope has been kinked or frayed, it must be replaced immediately.
Other signs that you need to replace your rope are:
- Visible cuts and frays
- Rope bulk anywhere along the length is reduced by 25% or more due to abrasion
- Flat areas or lumps are visible that cannot be fixed by flexing the rope
- Fused or melted fibres are found in excess
Battery
Operating the winch for a long period of time can strain the battery. Ensure that the battery is in good working order and that the battery cables are clean. Refer to your Operator’s manual for specific battery maintenance.
Winch Maintenance
The clutch should be checked monthly to ensure that it is fully engaging and disengaging. If it is not engaging, inspect the clutch shifter assembly to check whether there is any damage or excessive wear. Replace any parts that are necessary.
It is then important to keep your winch clean and free of any dirt or debris. You can do this by using a rag or towel to remove any dirt that has been collecting in your winch. It may be necessary to unwind the rope, wipe clean and rewind properly before storage.
Atlas Winch Hire and Hoist Services: Expert Winch Specialists
If you have chosen a quality winch from a reputable winch manufacturer, then you will not have to worry about caring for your winch.
At Atlas Winch Hire and Hoist Services, we provide winch servicing for a range of makes and models of winches, hoists, lifting gear and associated rigging. Our work is carried out by experienced engineers in fully equipped workshops so that you can get the best out of your winch.
We also provide a range of other services, including winch hire, refurbishment and many more bespoke solutions.
For additional information on the products and services we provide, contact our Scotland branch at 01899 221 577 or our Essex branch at 01371 859 555.
