HOW THE WINCH WORKS
WINCH ACCESSORIES YOU’LL WANT TO HAVE WITH YOU
Alone, the winch is not much more than a simple tool. But when used with certain accessories and enhancements, your Warn winch can become a versatile and productive tool. In this section, we’ll review several of these items. Some are vital to the safe operation of your winch, while others offer added versatility and convenience.
Winch Mechanics Now that you’ve familiarized yourself with your Warn winch and its components, we can begin reviewing how it works. The major advantage of an electric-powered winch is that it can provide reliable service for intermittent utility and recreational use even while the vehicle’s engine is stalled — assuming, of course, that sufficient battery current is available. Your winch can operate at high current loads, and, for this reason, uses a high current switch system to safely handle the current flow. It is important to understand that the longer the pull, the more heat that is created, just like a hot plate. Powering out the rope also generates heat and drains the electrical system. Whenever possible, unwind rope by “freespooling.” Prolonged winching without cooling the winch motor will damage the motor. Also, even if the engine is idling during winching, the battery may drain faster than it is charging. So pay close attention to make sure you aren’t draining your battery too low to start your vehicle.
Rocker switch control
Snatch Block Used properly, the multi-purpose snatch block allows you to: (1) increase your winch’s pulling power; and (2) change your pulling direction without damaging the rope. Proper use of the snatch block is covered in “Before You Pull”.
Control Of Your Winch The winch is controlled by a switch mechanism that provides control of the forward or reverse rotation of the spooling drum. How the Winch Reacts to Load Warn winches are rated by pulling capacity. The maximum pulling capacity occurs on the first layer of rope on the drum. As the layers increase, the pulling power decreases. It’s the mathematics of winching. Exceeding the winch capacity could cause the winch to fail or the rope to break. Thinking through how you intend to use your winch now, could save you a big headache later. In addition, you’ll also want to make sure that your winch’s mounting system and your vehicle’s frame can accom- modate the rated load of your winch.
Gloves rope, through use, will develop “barbs” which can slice skin. It is extremely important to wear protective gloves while operating the winch or handling the rope. Avoid loose fitting clothes or anything that could become entangled in the rope and other moving parts. Hook Strap Use to hold the hook and keep fingers away from the fairlead as the rope is being spooled in. Winches develop tremendous pulling forces and can easily remove fingers and limbs that are placed in pinch points. Put the hook into the loop and hold the strap between the thumb and forefingers.
Clevis/D-Shackles The D-Shackle is a safe means for connecting the looped ends of cables, straps and snatch blocks. The shackle’s pin is threaded to allow easy removal.
Always keep vehicle in sight during winching operation. ! WARNING
This winch is controlled by the hand held remote control to allow the operator to stand clear during the winching process.
Choker Chain Can be used to hook- up to another vehicle or sharp objects for an anchor point. Chains, however, will damage or kill trees.
GO PREPARED ™ 9 WARN INDUSTRIES • THE BASIC GUIDE TO WINCHING TECHNIQUES
GO PREPARED ™ 8 WARN INDUSTRIES • THE BASIC GUIDE TO WINCHING TECHNIQUES
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