For best performance, keep your ATV or truck winch clean and dry.

The best way to keep your winch looking and working like new is to keep it clean and keep it covered. Regularly maintaining your winch helps you avoid costly repairs and saves you money in the long run.

Keep It Clean

After a muddy or dirty ride, spool out your cable and either wipe it down or use a hose. Aim the spray at an angle to your rope. A direct spray can lodge dirt and debris deep into the fibers of your cable, but an angled spray nudges dirt out of nooks and crannies and washes it off.

Let the rope dry completely before respooling. This is especially important for synthetic rope, as it can become susceptible to rot if it’s not properly maintained. Steel rope can rust and weaken without proper care, but it tends to be hardier than synthetic rope.

Keep It Dry

If your winch and cable get wet, spool out the cable and let it dry after your ride. Never leave wet cable to dry on the spool. The easiest way to keep your winch clean and dry is to protect it with a winch cover.

If it’s not covered, your winch can get muddy and wet even on rides where you don’t need to use it. The best winch covers are made from neoprene material–the same material used in wet suits. Not only does this material keep out water and debris, but it also provides a snug fit.

Keep It Tuned Up

Periodically inspect your winch to keep it working right and to help prevent accidents caused by faulty parts. Check all of your connections. Tighten screws as needed. Replace any rusted or corroded parts. Remove all debris from the winch housing. A winch maintenance kit is an easy way to freshen up your winch.

Inspect your winch cable before and after every use. Replace the cable at the first sign of damage, such as excessive fraying, spliced wires, or other signs of wear and tear that could cause your cable to snap under load.