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March 8, 2011

Do I Need a Winch Cover?

A winch cover keeps out rain, dirt and grime.

A winch cover keeps out rain, dirt and grime.

Constant exposure to the elements can break down your winch line prematurely and allow abrasive grime, sand, and dirt into your winch’s gears and other moving parts. To make your winch and cable last as long as possible, use a winch cover when you are not using the winch.

For Synthetic Rope

If you run synthetic line on your winch, a cover can slow down the fading. Even with UV inhibitors, exposure to the sun will eventually fade the color on your rope. Synthetic line is designed to withstand harsh exposure to the elements, since it was originally developed for marine use, but it will last longer (and look better) if you keep it covered.

For Steel Cable

If you run steel cable, a winch cover keeps out abrasive substances and protects against rain, UV rays, and other elements. Mud, dirt, road grime, salt, sand, and ice can get into your winch gears and other winch parts and act like sandpaper, keeping your winch from running smoothly and possibly causing damage.

Even with a winch cover, it’s still important to use and maintain your winch properly if you want to get the most life out of it. There’s no substitute for taking good care of your winch with regular maintenance and cleaning.

July 27, 2010

Winch Cover FAQ

Neoprene winch covers resist water and cracking.

Neoprene winch covers resist water and cracking.

Why do I need a winch cover?
  1. Keep your winch clean and out of the weather, which ultimately makes your winch last longer.
  2. Protect synthetic winch rope from exposure to UV rays.
  3. Keep the cable from freezing up during the winter months.
  4. Keep salt off and prevent corrosion.
  5. Protect your winch from bug guts, dirt, debris, rain, snow, mud, and sun.
Which type of cover should I get?

There are two basic types of winch covers: hard and soft. Hard covers are made from molded plastic. Soft covers are made from nylon-backed vinyl or neoprene material. Which type of cover is best for you depends on your winch model and style preference. Neoprene covers are preferred for their resistance to water and cracking.

Are neoprene winch covers waterproof?

Yes. They repel water and moisture and protect your winch from exposure to rain and snow.

What is neoprene material?

Neoprene is a synthetic rubber material that resists oils, moisture, and aging. It is used in many waterproof materials, including wet suits and diving gear. Neoprene will not crack, unlike vinyl or hard plastic.

Will the cover stay in place while I ride?

Yes. Because of the tight-fitting elastic properties of neoprene, the cover molds to the shape of your winch and stays snugly in place.

Will this cover fit my winch?

Most winch covers are listed for a specific winch brand, model, and size. If your winch is a different model than those listed, you may want to contact the company before making your purchase to find out if the cover will fit your winch. Depending on the body style, dimensions, and motor on your winch, the cover may fit similar style winches.

May 20, 2010

Winch Covers for ATV and Truck Winches

Filed under: Winch Covers — Tags: , , — Esther @ 12:07 pm

This recovery winch cover is made of waterproof neoprene material.

This recovery winch cover is made of waterproof neoprene material.

What is one of the most inexpensive ways to protect your ATV or truck winch? A winch cover! It’s a cheap and easy way to make your winch last longer by shielding it from the elements.

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Winch covers are good for several reasons, including the following:

  1. They keep your winch clean. The cleaner you can keep your winch, the less often you will need to wash and maintain it, and the better it will work over the long haul.
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  3. They keep your winch dry. A cover protects your winch from rain, snow, and moisture and keeps metal parts from rusting.
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  5. They protect your winch from damaging UV rays. The fibers in your rope or cable will weaken with constant exposure to the sun. A cover protects those fibers, making your rope last longer.
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  7. They keep out dirt, sand, mud, and debris. These elements can work their way into the mechanical parts and affect the operation of your winch.

The best type of winch cover material is neoprene. It is fully waterproof (also used in wetsuits) and fits snugly in place.