Warn Basic Guide to Winching (Domestic)

RIGGING TECHNIQUES

Double line Because pulling power decreases with the number of layers of winch rope on the winch drum, you can use a snatch block to double line out more winch rope. This decreases the number of layers of winch rope on the drum, and increases pulling power. Start by feeding out enough winch rope to free the winch hook. Attach the hook to your vehicle’s frame/tow hook and run the winch rope through a snatch block.

Triple Line Use the same techniques as the Double Line. Select a robust mounting location on your vehicle for the snatch block and the screw-pin shackle. Keep a 90º angle between the winch and run the winch rope to the first anchor-point and through the snatch block. Secure rope back to the vehicle. Put the winch rope through the snatch block and secure with the screw-pin shackle on the vehicle as close to the winch as practical. Now run the winch rope to the final anchor point.

Various winching situations will require application of other winching techniques. These could range from too little distance to achieve maximum pull using straight line rigging, simply increasing pulling power, or maintaining a straight-line pulling situation. You will have to assess what technique is correct for your situation. Think “safety” at all times.

Secure to the anchor point with a tree trunk protector or choker chain. Attach the clevis/shackle. Attach the shackle to the two ends of the strap/ chain, being careful not to over tighten (tighten and back-off 1/2 turn). Secure the winch hook. While keeping the line near the ground, insert the winch hook through the screw-pin shackle. Check your anchor. Make sure all connections are secured and free of debris before continuing with the winching procedure.

How to change the pulling direction All winching operations should have a straight line from the winch to the object being pulled. This minimizes the winch rope collecting on one side of the drum affecting pulling efficiency and damaging winch rope. A snatch block, secured to a point directly in front of the vehicle, will enable you to change your pulling direction while still allowing the winch rope to be at 90º to wind properly onto the spooling drum.

Increasing pulling power In some cases, you may find yourself needing more pulling power. The use of snatch blocks increases mechanical advantage and that increases your pulling power:

Disengage the clutch and, using the snatch block, pull out enough wire to reach your anchor point. Do not attach hook to mounting kit. Secure to the anchor point with a tree trunk protector or choker chain. Attach the clevis/shackle. Attach the shackle to the two ends of the strap/ chain, being careful not to over tighten (tighten and back-off 1/2 turn).

Single line

Double line

Triple line

WARN INDUSTRIES • THE BASIC GUIDE TO WINCHING TECHNIQUES