You’ve probably heard numerous stories about near misses with a backlashing steel cable and maybe even a few tragic accidents. Working with steel cable can be dangerous, but taking the right precautions and keeping a close eye on the condition of the cable can prevent most accidents and near misses.
Inspecting your winch line is one of the most important steps in winch maintenance and safety. It only takes a few minutes, but it could prevent some big headaches in the long run.
Do a quick inspection before and after using your winch. Check for weak spots in the cable. Watch for excessive fraying or crimping and other signs of damage that could signal the need for a new cable. Do a more thorough inspection as part of your regular winch maintenance. How often you need to inspect the cable depends on how often you use your winch.