Warn Basic Guide to Winching (Domestic)

GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

WINCH BASICS

emphasize that the information in this guide is general in nature. Because no two situations are alike, it would be nearly impossible to review them all. We can, however, provide you with the general principles and techniques. Then it is up to you to take the time to analyze the situation and apply the proper technique. Along with a little common sense, the guidelines laid out in this book can help you keep off-roading fun. Just remember to think through each situation before you act and TREAD LIGHTLY!

WARNING Always take time to fully understand your winch and the winching operation by reviewing this guide and the Operator’s Guide included with your winch. So, you have your WARN winch and you’re ready to get out on the trails: climb a few boulders, splash a little mud, traverse the occasional stream. Basically, you’re ready to explore the back country and otherwise have a great time. Well, if you’re smart enough to go prepared with the best, you’re probably smart enough to know that to keep having a great time, you need to fully understand your winch and the winching operation. That’s exactly what this guide intends to do: provide you with a basic understanding of your winch and teach you the basics of proper winching techniques. But before we get started, we must

WARNING

CAUTION

AVOID WINCH AND EQUIPMENT DAMAGE • Always avoid side pulls which can pile up winch rope at one end of the drum. This can damage winch rope or winch. • Always ensure the clutch is fully engaged or disengaged. • Always use care to not damage the vehicle frame when anchoring to a vehicle during a winching operation. • Never submerge winch in water. • Always store the remote control in a protected, clean, dry area. NOTICE MOVING PARTS ENTANGLEMENT HAZARD Failure to observe these instructions could lead to minor or moderate injury. To avoid injury to hands or fingers: • Never leave remote control where it can be activated during free spooling, rigging, or when the winch is not being used. • Never leave the winch remote control plugged in when installing, freespooling, rigging, servicing or when the winch is not being used.

CHEMICAL AND FIRE HAZARD Failure to observe these instructions could lead to serious injury or death. • Always remove jewelry and wear eye protection. • Never route electrical cables across sharp edges. • Never route electrical cables near parts that get hot. • Never route electrical cables through or near moving parts. • Always place the supplied terminal boots on wires and terminals as directed by the installation instructions. • Never lean over battery while making connections. • Never route electrical cables over battery terminals. • Never short battery terminals with metal objects. • Always verify area is clear of fuel lines, fuel tank, brake lines, electrical wires, etc., when drilling. • Always consult operator’s manual for proper wiring details. • Always insulate and protect all exposed wiring and electrical terminals.

Structural components of a planetary gear winch

CAUTION

CUT AND BURN HAZARD Failure to observe these instructions could lead to minor or moderate injury. • Never let winch rope slip through your hands.

WARN INDUSTRIES • THE BASIC GUIDE TO WINCHING TECHNIQUES