A winch is a device that controls the tension of wire cable that is spooled onto it. Cable is wound either inwardly or outwardly relative to the location of the spool drum. Winch cable is made of durable multistranded, braided wire and is designed to support heavy loads. It’s initially threaded through a hole in the spool and anchored in to prevent slippage. Whether you have a mechanized or manual winch, you need to properly wrap the cable so the winch is ready for use on your next rescue operation.
Don protective gear like thick leather gloves and avoid wearing loose outer garments that could get caught in the winch as you wind the cable.
Examine the cable as it is stretched out in front and off of the spool. Straighten any kinks using a rubber mallet. Pound the cable to reshape lumps and to flatten tiny wires that are frayed. Avoid disengaging any levers or disconnecting any threaded cables that hold the wire onto the spool.
Crank the manual spooler or turn on the motor for the power winch. Monitor as cable is spooled onto the drum one row at a time. Layers should be smoothly and evenly wound onto the drum. The first layer should wrap, starting at the spot where the cable is attached to its anchor point.
Guide the cable with your gloved hand as needed, to ensure that cable doesn’t lump together in one spot. You don’t need to be forceful; just guide and reposition cable to allow it to follow a single layer pattern. When one row of cable reaches the end of the drum, allow a new layer to build and guide the wire in the opposite direction towards the other end of the drum. Continue layering the cable until all cable is smoothly wound onto the drum. Rewind or stop the winch at any point to straighten out cable to your satisfaction.
