It's Pulling For You

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Think, too, about whether you want a clutch, or "freewheeling," design. It will allow you to manually pull the cable out to its full length without engaging the motorsomething to consider when you take into account typical winch line speeds of 15 or 20 feet per minute. Almost every winch operates under power in both directions (in and out) and includes a self-locking brake system. And at least one firm makes a twospeed winch to handle a variety of jobs.

One big question is that of mounting. Though a good welder could secure a winch to just about any vehicle, Ramsey's Haugtvedt gives a compelling reason why it's a good idea to stay with factory kits: "We stress-test mounting systems for all kinds of vehicles, and market the ones that work. Some applications, especially to fourwheeldrive passenger vehicles, require careful engineering because many have unit bodies, rather than channel frames like a truck. It's quite possible to damage a vehicle's subframe by installing a winch improperly."

Then too, mounting kits often include or allow for better features such as a roller (rather than a hawse) fair-lead, which guides the cable in front of the drum. The four rollers reduce friction considerably and extend the life of the cable in the process.

Finally, don't forget that certain accessories are nearly as important as the winch itself. A pulley block is useful for heavy-load situations and for pulling things at odd angles. Nylon straps are a must when anchoring to tree trunks or other points that would be damaged by a cable, and a clevis allows you to secure the winch hook to the strap safely. Heavy leather gloves are highly recommended when handling the cable to avoid serious cuts from frayed wire. And a remote winch control is essential if you anticipate much vehicle hauling on rugged or unstable terrain.

There you have it. Even if you can get by without a winch for the present, you'll know what to look for in the future. And if you do any driving in the country, that future will one day come.

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