Wallenstein FX Series - Synthetic Winch Rope Maintenance

FX85, FX110, FX140
Skidding Winch
Service and Maintenance
49
9.10 Synthetic Winch Rope
Maintenance
IMPORTANT! Heat and exposure to ultra-violet (UV) light
break down the fibers of synthetic rope, which weakens the
rope and makes it brittle over time. Frequent use in mud,
dirt, and sandy conditions can also damage a synthetic rope
if it is not thoroughly cleaned and cared for.
9.10.1 Examine the Synthetic Winch Rope
Check the entire synthetic winch rope for wear and wind it neatly
(under tension) after every use. Check the synthetic winch rope
for any cut strands, fraying parts, abrasion, or heat damage
from the winch. After some use, all winch ropes get a little fuzzy
from abrasion. This is normal. However, if an entire strand is
cut, the synthetic winch rope must be replaced or repaired.
All strands must be intact for the synthetic winch rope to work
properly and maintain its strength.
9.10.2 Clean the Synthetic Winch Rope
When dirt and grit become lodged between the strands of the
synthetic winch rope, they cause abrasion to the fibers when the
winch rope operates under load. Over time, this can cause the
synthetic winch rope to lose integrity and strength.
1. Remove the winch rope from the winch.
2. Lay the winch rope on a clean surface.
3. Use a water hose to rinse the winch rope.
4. To remove dirt and grit from the strands:
a. Fill a bucket with water and mild soap.
b. Place the rope in the bucket.
c. Lay a clean towel beside the bucket to place the clean
portion of the rope on.
d. Starting at one end of the rope, push the rope strands
together to open them up and rinse between them.
e. Work your way through the entire rope until the clean
rope is laying on the towel.
f. Examine the winch drum and fairlead for sharp or
rough surfaces that could damage the winch rope. If
necessary, remove or repair sharp or rough surfaces.
5. Dry the winch rope.
6. Wind the winch rope neatly (under tension) onto the winch.
For instructions, see Wind the Cable or Winch Rope
Without a Load on page 33.
9.11 Drum-Lock Rope and Clutch-
Control Rope Routing
00609
1
2
3
4
5
6
Figure 58 – Clutch-control and drum-lock rope routing
1. Clutch-control rope (white)
2. Drum-lock rope (green)
3. Connection point
4. Double pulley
5. Connection point
6. Single pulley.