Using the electric winch
Fitted to our car trailers for pulling vehicles on. First time on a winch? Read this once before you hook up — it takes two minutes.
A winch is for pulling, never lifting — and never touch a rope under load.
A rope under tension stores enormous energy. Not sure about your setup? Stop and call 1300 418 285.
TL;DR — the whole thing
- Check the rope No kinks, frays or damage before every use
- Chock the wheels & clear the area Nobody near the rope line, ever
- Attach to rated recovery points only Never the tow ball, axle, or the rope onto itself
- Blanket over the rope A dampener mid-span kills the whip if it lets go
- Winch in short bursts, straight line Hands, hair and clothing well clear
- Spool back neat when done Light tension, even layers, minimum 5 wraps on the drum
Before you winch
- Gloves on; no loose clothing or jewellery, long hair tied back.
- Inspect the rope, hook, shackles and slings for damage. Damaged rope = don’t use it, call us.
- Chock the wheels and plan a straight pull with a clear path.
- Free-spool carefully, using the hook strap to pull rope off the drum — not the hook itself.
- Attach to a rated recovery point. Use a sling or protector around anchors — never loop the rope back onto itself.
- Lay a dampener or heavy blanket over the middle of the rope.
- Keep the remote unplugged until you’re ready, then route the lead through an open window — away from the drum and rope.
- Everyone else stands well clear — never behind the vehicle being pulled.
While winching
- Pull in short bursts — pause to let the winch cool and the rope layer evenly.
- Keep the rope feeding straight into the fairlead; avoid side loads.
- Never touch or step over a rope under tension.
- Don’t touch the clutch while the rope is loaded or the drum is turning.
- Rope stacking or binding? Stop, free-spool a little, re-tension on a straight pull.
When you’re done
- Spool the rope back under light tension in neat, even layers — keep at least 5 wraps on the drum.
- Muddy or wet? Clean and dry the rope before stowing.
- Stow the dampener, straps and shackles; disconnect the remote.
- Spotted damage — fraying, kinks, heat glaze? Report it so the next hirer gets safe gear.
Never
- Never lift anything with the winch.
- Never attach to a tow ball, axle or suspension.
- Never hook the rope back onto itself.
- Never exceed the rated capacity, or use the winch rope as a tow strap or tie-down.
- Never touch, cross or straddle a rope under load.
