Rebuilt my winch - easy and worth the effort

[adventurebuddies]

I just wanted to let people know that rebuilding the winch is super easy. I have a Warn M12000 and I'm glad I took it apart because it had some rust and the old grease was hard and dry. I rebuilt it for a few bucks in new gaskets and a tube of high temp grease. I also took the opportunity to relocate the control box under the hood to get the solenoids out of the elements. If you're thinking about this kind of maintenance, go for it! It's easy and fun to see how the winch actually works.

 

[I Leak Oil]

Just curious, why did you use high temp grease? Is that what the mfg. recommends? I'll probably dig into mine this winter too.....
Jason T.

 

[MoGas]

According to Warn, You should use Aeroshell #17

 

[madizell]

Since #17 is rated for 300 degrees, I would think of it as a high temp grease. Most lubricant products fall into recognized classes. Perhaps it is more correct to say the winch needs Aeroshell #17 or its equivalent.

 

[david despain]

equivelent is right since they dont make Aeroshell 17 anymore. http://www.shell.com/home/content/a...ellgreases/aeroshellgreaserange_10081024.html
A/S 33ms is the replacement for A/S 17. it meets the same mil spec. although some aircraft component and aircraft OEMs are calling for a different grease than the 33 to replace what we are using the 17 for now. loc-tite's moly 50 is also a good lube although its not really a "grease". A/S 17 is a great grease for it's intended uses and if there are still places that have it in stock you could probably get enough to last a lifetime.

 

[ntsqd]

I used Redline CV joint grease in my Warn M8. Figured that few things see the kind of pressure and temperature that CV joints do.
And it has worked exceptionally well sitting on the floor of my garage.

 

[madizell]

I kinda doubt that a CV would see 300 degrees, but I think a winch drum, especially one with a brake inside it, might often see temperatures spike in that area. I would check the specs on the grease tube to see if it compares to what is needed.

 

[HenryJ]

How much grease are you guys using? Are you filling most of the voids? The more is better philosophy. Or just a light coat on everything? The less is best plan.

 

[toyrunner95]

i would say use a liberal ammount. i would much rather have something over greased than under greased. also 300 degrees is pretty reasonable. think about 5 or 6k on a couple small little bearings in one spot. like the drum bearings on either end where 6000lbs are pulling directly laterally. thats alot o force.