5/16" or 3/8" line on a warn 8274

[85 Jimmy]

just wondering what you guys would use, 150' of 5/16 synthetic line or 125' of 3/8 synthetic line? or would you use steel line? it'll probably be used in alot of mud, when it gets used.

 

[Hogback Fabrication]

I use 125' of 3/8 synthetic. Stronger=better in my book, besides, you only lose 25' of rope by going to the bigger size.

I think mud can be pretty tough on both cable and rope, but especially harsh on rope. I think washing it often will make it last longer

Maybe talk with someone who sells this stuff

 

[thebird00]

Isn't rope stronger than the same diameter wire? 5/16" rope would equal 3/8" wire.

 

[BGKYK5]

I've always thought that I would want synthetic rope (easier to work with, lighter, less dangerous) if I ever find enough money in the couch cushions to get a winch, but I would be worried about dirt. Dirt is a rope's worst enemy. When my brother was still rock climbing, he was always very paranoid that his ropes were getting dirty. The dirt works its way between the stands and eventually starts to wear through them. Is this also an issue with winch rope? Do you have to replace it periodically (more often than steel cable)?

 

[k204dr]

the dirt is gonna be hard on it, and it wont last as long as a cable, but at least if it breaks it probably wont kill anyone. you'll just have to buy a new one when it does.

 

[Elevator Man]

I run 3/8 on my 8274, I've got around 130' on it. It needs to have a little taken off but I always use a snatch block so it works pretty well while pulling. I don't know about synthetic, but I like how cable works in the mud. If your careful with it and don't pinch it, it will last forever.

 

[Hogback Fabrication]

Isn't rope stronger than the same diameter wire? 5/16" rope would equal 3/8" wire.

3/8" cable has a breaking force of ~14,000 lbs

3/8" synthetic rope has a breaking strength of ~24,000 lbs.

 

[Hogback Fabrication]

I've always thought that I would want synthetic rope (easier to work with, lighter, less dangerous) if I ever find enough money in the couch cushions to get a winch, but I would be worried about dirt. Dirt is a rope's worst enemy. When my brother was still rock climbing, he was always very paranoid that his ropes were getting dirty. The dirt works its way between the stands and eventually starts to wear through them. Is this also an issue with winch rope? Do you have to replace it periodically (more often than steel cable)?

This is a problem with winch rope just like it is with climbing rope. Keep it clean and it will last a long time.

If you aren't going to take the time to clean the rope often (working in the mud anyway), wire may be a better choice.

Mine never sees mud and I have never cleaned it (and don't really plan to).