3 Important Tips for Using a Winch | Jeep in Miami

December 25th, 2014 by

WARN-platinum-jeep-winch - Jeep in Miami

If you have a new vehicle from Jeep in Miami and you’re prepping for some off-road fun, adding a winch is something you should definitely consider.

It can be a really powerful tool when used correctly, and it provides extra confidence when you’re taking on significant off-road challenges.

However, in order for your winch to work when you need it, you have to maintain it, along with your vehicle.

Here are three tips that will help you get the most out of your winch and prevent you from being left in a jam.

Watch that Battery

Winching draws a lot of power from your battery so you should equip your off-roading vehicle with the largest battery possible. Don’t forget to make sure that you have a good alternator too.

Using your winch for an extended period of time can really drain the battery down. Try to avoid pulling for too long because it can do permanent damage. And always keep your vehicle running so you don’t completely drain the battery.

You should also get in the habit of checking your battery regularly to make sure that it’s sustaining a good charge. You don’t want to be caught unprepared when you’re counting on your winch in a sticky situation.

Many off-roaders even choose to carry an extra battery with them so they have backup in an emergency.

Set Up Right

If you can, find an anchor that is directly aligned with your vehicle. A straight pull is more effective than an indirect one.

A longer pull is also better. The less line you have left on the drum, the better. You’ll get more power that way, making you more likely to successfully free up your vehicle.

Take Care of Your Rope

When you get new rope, make sure you stretch it before hitting the trails. It’s essential to check for any weak spots ahead of time.

Unwind all of the rope except for the last few wraps. Hook the end to an anchor, and then slowly use it to pull your vehicle, keeping even tension as you re-spool.

Any time you finish using your winch, be thorough, and re-spool the rope properly. By layering it back on carelessly, you can cause damage, making it less reliable the next time you need it.

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