8
3.0 Winch usage
MOST WINCHING SITUATIONS PRESENT
POTENTIAL DANGERS!
3.1 Rope
STAY OUT OF THE WINCH LINE’S PATH.
3.1.1 Rope type
Use only
low stretch
rope. We recommend using double-braided polyester rope with a
minimum diameter of 10 mm (3/8''). Maximum rope diameter is 16 mm (5/8"). For most
situations, we recommend using 12 or 13 mm (1/2'') double braid polyester rope. Please contact
us for other rope types suitability.
DO NOT USE 3-STRAND POLYPROPYLENE YELLOW ROPE!
Polypropylene and polyethylene ropes are dangerous for winching because of their
great elasticity and low melt point.
Make sure the rope is not damaged and that it offers an adequate resistance to pull the
load.
STRETCH EQUALS DANGER!
A stretched rope can recoil and cause serious burns as the rope leaves your hand.
All ropes stretch: a longer one more than a shorter one. The more you pull, the more it
stretches.
A stretched rope can also move the load in an unpredictable or dangerous way.
A stretched rope can recoil and bring your hand towards the winch causing severe
injuries.
NEVER WRAP THE ROPE AROUND YOUR HAND
.
ALWAYS WEAR
GLOVES.
