Rickybobby12
New member
Curious what the benifit is regarding synthetic winch line vs. metal winch line? Is it lighter? Easier to work with? For somebody who isn't winching a lot, is it worth having?
Synthetic winch line vs. metal winch line??
- Thread starter Rickybobby12
- Start date
bob91yj
Resident **************
I currently have wire rope on my winches. On my YJ rock crawler, I don't know that I'll ever switch to synthetic (Warn M10000 with 3/8" wire rope). I abuse that Jeep, generally speaking when I need the winch, I REALLY need the winch, no time to be messing around with chaffe guards etc.
Having said that, when it's time to replace the wire on our LJ (Warn 9.5Ti), I'll be switching over to synthetic line, easier to use, lighter, arguably safer.
How's that for sitting on the fence? You'll get valid arguments either way, I think it depends on the intended use.
Having said that, when it's time to replace the wire on our LJ (Warn 9.5Ti), I'll be switching over to synthetic line, easier to use, lighter, arguably safer.
How's that for sitting on the fence? You'll get valid arguments either way, I think it depends on the intended use.
Rickybobby12
New member
I assumed the synthetic line was safer. I don't think I'll use the winch much, but the more I get out there, who knows? I haven't purchased the winch yet, but when I do, I want to put the appropriate winch line on.
bob91yj
Resident **************
Winches are like Hi-Lift jacks, amazingly versatile tools when used properly...deadly when not used properly. Practice using both (especially a Hi Lift) so you are familiar with their operation.
My biggest issue is getting EVERYONE except the required people clear of the rope/cable radius. People always want to watch an extraction, often putting themselves in danger if something goes wrong. There is NO recovery that is too easy to disregard saftey. I'm not a fan of cutting corners when purchasing safety/recovery gear either. All machines can fail, cheap machines tend to fail more often. There is the potential that your recovery gear can be a life/death issue, think of what you want in that situation before making your purchase.
My biggest issue is getting EVERYONE except the required people clear of the rope/cable radius. People always want to watch an extraction, often putting themselves in danger if something goes wrong. There is NO recovery that is too easy to disregard saftey. I'm not a fan of cutting corners when purchasing safety/recovery gear either. All machines can fail, cheap machines tend to fail more often. There is the potential that your recovery gear can be a life/death issue, think of what you want in that situation before making your purchase.
I am a fan of the synthetic rope. Below are my perceptions of advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages:
1. Weight. The line weighs next to nothing, and going with synthetic rope means you can switch out the heavy roller fairlead with an aluminum hawse fairlead, which weighs very, very little in comparisson. Total weight saving is about 45lbs or so, which is a lot when its sitting on the very front of the Jeep. I changed to systhetic and an auluminum hawse fairlead on my '06 LJ and the differences in ride and perfromance were both noticable.
2. Safety. The line weighs little and stretches little, and so stores little energy. If it should break there is no potential for damage from the parted rope.
3. Easy to handle. Does not require gloves to handle, no sharp or jagged hooks as with cable. It does get hot on the hands when you are guiding it onto the spool, and gloves are nice to have, though not essential.
4. No rust. Steel cable rusts over time, the more use, the faster the rust, and it can rust between the strands, where you can't see it.
5. With some study and practice, it is more readily field repaired than steel.
6. No kinking.
Disadvantages:
1. Prone to abrasion. But stronger than steel, so it can take some wear.
2. Often can't get as much on a drum as steel.
3. Cost.
4. Subject to heat damage, not an issue for everyday use or for those who have winches with exterior brakes, but an issue for those who power out under a load (like when descending a too steep face) with winches that have their brakes in the center of the drum.
JPK
Advantages:
1. Weight. The line weighs next to nothing, and going with synthetic rope means you can switch out the heavy roller fairlead with an aluminum hawse fairlead, which weighs very, very little in comparisson. Total weight saving is about 45lbs or so, which is a lot when its sitting on the very front of the Jeep. I changed to systhetic and an auluminum hawse fairlead on my '06 LJ and the differences in ride and perfromance were both noticable.
2. Safety. The line weighs little and stretches little, and so stores little energy. If it should break there is no potential for damage from the parted rope.
3. Easy to handle. Does not require gloves to handle, no sharp or jagged hooks as with cable. It does get hot on the hands when you are guiding it onto the spool, and gloves are nice to have, though not essential.
4. No rust. Steel cable rusts over time, the more use, the faster the rust, and it can rust between the strands, where you can't see it.
5. With some study and practice, it is more readily field repaired than steel.
6. No kinking.
Disadvantages:
1. Prone to abrasion. But stronger than steel, so it can take some wear.
2. Often can't get as much on a drum as steel.
3. Cost.
4. Subject to heat damage, not an issue for everyday use or for those who have winches with exterior brakes, but an issue for those who power out under a load (like when descending a too steep face) with winches that have their brakes in the center of the drum.
JPK
Rickybobby12
New member
Thank you for all the great information!
ExpoMike
Well-known member
X2 on what JPK posted. My biggest decision was weight. I couldn't believe that half the winch weight was the steel cable. When you start hanging all that weight way in front of the axle center line, it's very surprising how much of an effect it has on suspension and braking.
Hill Bill E.
Oath Keeper
I don't use my winch very often, but having had both wire rope that came with the winch, and synthetic (Master Pull Superline XD) I'll stick with the synthetic from now on!
The XD has a second 'skin' made from synthetic material, it helps keep dirt out, UV out, and works as a chafe guard. (though it also comes with a 3' chafe guard that velcros over the line)
My list of 'Pro's' for the synthetic:
Light weight
Safer
It floats!
It can be easily shortened/repaired in the field.
And best of all, if you get the Master Pull stuff, they have great customer service!
The XD has a second 'skin' made from synthetic material, it helps keep dirt out, UV out, and works as a chafe guard. (though it also comes with a 3' chafe guard that velcros over the line)
My list of 'Pro's' for the synthetic:
Light weight
Safer
It floats!
It can be easily shortened/repaired in the field.
And best of all, if you get the Master Pull stuff, they have great customer service!
bldeagle10
Explorer
when it comes to safety, something that hasn't been mentioned yet is that when the line breaks (IF it breaks) it has MUCH less tendancy than cable to whip around, I have seen a synthetic line break and it just drops to the floor. I'm sure you know what a steel cable does when it breaks.
weight savings is a huge plus.
they are safer to use on trees, you dont need the tree hugger straps that you are supposed to use with steel.
the only downside I see is that you can't fit as much as steel on the drum. but that is a small drawback, if needed you can hook up a tow strap and gain a little extra...not the best winching practice but if needed...
I'm definitely going synthetic when I get my Warn.
weight savings is a huge plus.
they are safer to use on trees, you dont need the tree hugger straps that you are supposed to use with steel.
the only downside I see is that you can't fit as much as steel on the drum. but that is a small drawback, if needed you can hook up a tow strap and gain a little extra...not the best winching practice but if needed...
I'm definitely going synthetic when I get my Warn.
bob91yj
Resident **************
I disagree with not using a tree hugger on a tree. Synthetic line will cut into tree bark on a hard pulludt like wire does. The idea behind the tree hugger is it's a flat strap, spreads the load and doesn't cut into the tree.
The other issue that hasn't been brought up is despite the strength ratings, synthetic line does break. I've seen it happen numerous times. I've been fortunate enough that I have never seen a wire cable break (knocking on wood).
The other issue that hasn't been brought up is despite the strength ratings, synthetic line does break. I've seen it happen numerous times. I've been fortunate enough that I have never seen a wire cable break (knocking on wood).
Pooch72
Adventurer
I have a RXC10 winch with synthetic line because I've seen what a wire rope does when it breaks. I forked out the extra cash for the synthetic line just for the safety reason alone. The rest, for me, is inconsequential. And, having used the winch to pull my dad out of a jam, I can tell you that it works just as good as a wire rope, and you don't have to worry about a recoil if something goes wrong.
bldeagle10
Explorer
was not aware of that, I had just been told you didn't need them. that is definitely good information to know though thank you for correcting me.
it does break, but I feel like, as before mentioned, if you are going to be hard core wheeling then yes maybe a steel line is best, you are likely to use it more often and that extra durability seems worth it. but in the case of an expo rig, the weight savings help, and at least in my case I do NOT plan on having to winch through everything, If I have to pull out the winch twice on a trail I am on the wrong trail for my rig. so for me at least the synthetic would be sufficient enough. it all comes down to like the steel vs aluminum skid plates debate that we just had, every application is different and you should gather a knowledge about the area and base your decision to best fit your application. that is some of the smartest advice I feel I can give to anyone really.
it does break, but I feel like, as before mentioned, if you are going to be hard core wheeling then yes maybe a steel line is best, you are likely to use it more often and that extra durability seems worth it. but in the case of an expo rig, the weight savings help, and at least in my case I do NOT plan on having to winch through everything, If I have to pull out the winch twice on a trail I am on the wrong trail for my rig. so for me at least the synthetic would be sufficient enough. it all comes down to like the steel vs aluminum skid plates debate that we just had, every application is different and you should gather a knowledge about the area and base your decision to best fit your application. that is some of the smartest advice I feel I can give to anyone really.
A synthetic winch rope will not break under it's rated strength - when it is in new condition. Neither will a steel cable. But both need inspection for wear and in the case of the wire rope for kinks, "untwists" and rust.
For a good look at the wear patterns on synthetic lines, take a look at this link: (to be added shortly) EDIT: I am having trouble finding the great reference on wear, damage, etc. But I put a call into Master Pull and hopefully they will put me on the track to it. I'll provide it in a seperate post when I find it.
JPK
For a good look at the wear patterns on synthetic lines, take a look at this link: (to be added shortly) EDIT: I am having trouble finding the great reference on wear, damage, etc. But I put a call into Master Pull and hopefully they will put me on the track to it. I'll provide it in a seperate post when I find it.
JPK
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one other consideration is having a cover for your winch when using synth. line. contstant UV exposure will degrade that line over time.
I am also a big fan of synth cable. Once you've seen what happens when a steel line snaps, it really wakes you up! Don't get me wrong, steel cable can be used safely. You can use dampners to help absorb some of that energy should it brake.
I still say to use gloves with the synth. line EVERY time! Rope burn is not that pleasant. lol...but have seen steel line tear through gloves and skin. I've been stuck with those steel splitners before...even through my leather gloves.
One last thing to consider: try to find somehwere that teaches proper recovery/ safety. Buy the proper equipment the first time around and know how to use is it!!!
I am also a big fan of synth cable. Once you've seen what happens when a steel line snaps, it really wakes you up! Don't get me wrong, steel cable can be used safely. You can use dampners to help absorb some of that energy should it brake.
I still say to use gloves with the synth. line EVERY time! Rope burn is not that pleasant. lol...but have seen steel line tear through gloves and skin. I've been stuck with those steel splitners before...even through my leather gloves.
One last thing to consider: try to find somehwere that teaches proper recovery/ safety. Buy the proper equipment the first time around and know how to use is it!!!
