What's The Story On Winches?

[Colorado Yamaha]

I've never used mine other than for lifting the snow plow, I have a 1.5 on the 660, looking for one for the 700; do you really need more than that, wouldn't it just pull the atv or break the mounting bolts if you go to 2.5, 3.5 or 4? Any experience would be helpful. Thanks guys.

 

[Jaxom]

I have a Warn3000 and would not have a lesser rated model. The 3k is a better built winch and is sealed better. I have been in the position where I had to pull out 2 bikes simultaneously from the mud. It was not a problem at all. I did have to tie the rear of the bike to a tree to prevent the winch from moving ME!

 

[frantzm67]

I would suggest going with higher rated winch I have alot of friends that think they can do just about anything and on occasion need a little rescue. when you need to pull out the winch you are going to need reliability. the higher rated winch is has gearing rated for that kind of pull and I would hate to strip a gear when you need the help. You some times really put a lot of pull wondering if you are going to snap a cable. Probably would damage the gears before cable. If this happens its going to be along day if you are out in the middle of nowhere.

 

[Snowwmax]

One thing to remember is learning how to use your winch correctly. Most simply hook it up to a tree / another ATV and start winching...

You need to use tools like snatch blocks (to double/triple etc pulling power, to re-direct so you get a straight pull on the winch), tree savers (to save the bark around trees), GLOVES , d-shackles (to connect tree straps etc) and recovery straps ( to extend the winch cable if needed)

so far my Warn 2.5 has been fine and with my knowledge of winching and the tools (all of the above mentioned) I have I am sure it will remain to be fine.

I have seen some pictures/videos of peoples winching techniques and they are down-right scary! let alone putting un-due stress on the winch(like when you have the winch cable at about a 60 degree angle to the tree!)

 

[frantzm67]

This is so very true. If you are going to play hard you better do your homework.

 

[Snowwmax]

This is so very true. If you are going to play hard you better do your homework.

Yup

Attached is a picture of my winch cable, snatch blocks and my recovery strap to "Right" my quad as it layed on its side...

Hard to see the entire cable in the 1 picture..

 

[frantzm67]

hey it looks like you were there alone. I have done alot of riding alone. I need to pick up some of that gear it definetly great advice for anyone. I have been chewed out for riding alone but cant always find people to go with when I can ride. anyways I hope you didnt get hurt on that ride. Thanks for the input.

 

[Snowwmax]

Nope.. safe.. it was a very Slow decent that lead to that...

I used to ride my dirtbike alone.. which is far more dangerous... When I am alone.. I generally don't take as many chances as I would if I were with others..

Northern tool has great deal on snatch blocks, much cheaper than the Warn ones, etc.. I can send you the link to the ones I bought when I get home..

 

[frantzm67]

i was just looking in the rocky mountain atv cataloge didnt see anything. we have northern cataloge at work I will have to look them up. I agree I usually wont take any risks when I am riding alone. Thanks.

 

[Snowwmax]

Hey Frantz, All

www.Northerntool.com is the site.

The have pulley blocks (snatch blocks), straps and more!

Item #: 14298
Description: Northern Industrial Tools 2.8-Ton Capacity Pulley Block
Item Price: $14.99 ea

Item #: 1938
Description: Northern Industrial Tools Tree-Saver Winch Strap
Item Price: $6.99 ea

I modified the Pulley blocks by removing the pin that holds the hook, cross drilling it to accept a hair pin cotter key for quick release.

-Steve

 

[frantzm67]

hey thanks for the info I definetly want to pick up some of that gear.