Keep webbing tree strop as close to the ground as is possible. When using a snatch block ensure the rope dosn't snag
Go to great lengths to make sure the wire rope on the drum is neat and tight before taking the strain
A simple scenario first. You are driving along some deepish ruts and you become high-centred. No problem: on with the gloves (chrome leather ones are best, although I use strong weatherproof gloves), plug in the remote control handset, power out a little to loosen the wire rope, engage free spool and walk forward with the hook. Assuming that there is a handy large tree directly in front, carry a webbing strop and bow shackle with you.
Always place the tree strop around the tree as low as possible for maximum strength, bringing the two protected eyes together into the bow of the shackle and replace the pin. Having done up the screw pin, back it off half a turn to stop it jamming under load. Place the wire rope hook on to the pin and walk back to your stuck vehicle.
Keep webbing tree strop as close to the ground as is possible. When using a snatch block ensure the rope dosn't snag |
Go to great lengths to make sure the wire rope on the drum is neat and tight before taking the strain |
Back at the winch, with a gloved hand take up the slack, ensuring the rope left on the drum is neatly laid. Climb in to the vehicle along with the handset and winch away, having let off your handbrake first. Remember to cast your eyes up through the middle of the bonnet to check you are winching dead straight ahead. Your engine should of course be fast idling to power the winch. In this case we are winching only, but if it's hard going you may decide to winch and drive.
To do this simply engage first gear within low ratio - don't forget to engage the centre diff lock too, if fitted - and let the wheels turn slowly to assist recovery. You will probably have to let the revs drop off a little as well, otherwise your wheels will be spinning too fast. However, for a short pull you can always keep the revs up and slip the clutch with care.
The problem arises that if all of a sudden the wheels find grip, you will overrun the wire rope. If this starts to happen, dip the clutch immediately and continue winching until you are clear of the problem. It is important to ensure that the wire rope stays up clear of the ground. If it falls and goes slack, the rope will become loose on the drum.
Let's go back a little and say for argument's sake that you were stuck in a long straight track and that it's not possible to run the wire rope out straight ahead of the winch. Provided you can find another ground anchor on the opposite side of the track to your main tree anchor, attach a strop to that and, with an adjustable chain or a convenient tow rope, hang a snatch block on the winch rope. Adjust it so that the snatch block changes the line of direction and lies in the centre of the track as the strain comes on. The use of the snatch block in this case protects the wire rope from damage.
(c)Goodwinch Limited 2006
