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1.2 Definitions And Winch Operation
1.2.1 Definitions
Operation and service of a Warn planetary winch can be explained easier by defining a few major
structural components. Refer to
Figure 1.2
for the following definitions:
MOTOR
:
The winch motor is a permanent magnet motor. A 12-volt DC battery powers the
electric motor.
DRUM:
The winch drum is the structural component of the winch used to store wire rope and
to transmit torque from the winch motor and gears to the wire rope.
DRUM SUPPORT:
Drum
supports (covered by housing) are the structural components of the
winch that mount the winch to the vehicle. The drum rotates while being held by the drum
supports and both the motor and gear train are attached to a drum support.
GEAR TRAIN:
Warn
electric planetary winches consist of a gear train made up of three
planetary gear stages. The purpose of the gear train is to multiply motor torque and to reduce
motor speed transmitted to the drum. Warn gear trains are enclosed in a housing and are
lubricated with grease.
FREESPOOL CLUTCH:
A freespool clutch is incorporated in the gear train to allow the user
to pull the wire rope off the drum to the anchor point where the hook will be attached, without
using the winch motor. This is referred to as "Free spooling".
Figure 1.2 Major Winch Components
Drum Support
Motor
Free spool Clutch
Drum w/ Wire Rope
Gear Train
