TM 5-2410-240-10
0005
WINCH OPERATION
0005
WARN I N G
Personal injury or death can result from unexpected movement of objects. Be sure all
persons are clear of cable and objects before a machine is winched or moved. A safe
distance of at least 1 1/2 times working length of cable should be maintained. Tail end of a
moving object can throw debris at bystanders.
When reeling in objects,ensure all personnel are clear of rolling objects.
A minimum of five complete wraps of cablemust be maintained on winch drum. DO NOT
handle a load with a winch drum that has less than five wraps.
DO NOT operate winch under loads that exceed maximum rated bare drum line pull. If
excessive loads are encountered, use a multi-part line and sheave blocks. Any attempt to
exceed capacity of one winch is extremely hazardous. Never try to couple two or more
tractors together.
DO NOT jerk loads and avoid sudden shock toloads. These types of operations cause
heavy loads in excess of winch rated capacity, which in turn may result in cable failure or
winch failure.
Winch is not designed or intended to be used for lifting or moving persons.
Wear leather gloves when handling winch cable.
NEVER attempt to maintain cable tension byallowing cable to slip through your hands.
Use hand-over-hand technique only when necessary.
Keep hands and clothing away from winch drum and rollers.
Verify ground is stable before winching in a load.
Failure to follow these warnings may result in death or injury to personnel.
C AU T I O N
Warm-up procedures are mandatory when ambient temperature is below 40F (4C).
Failure to follow this caution may result in damage to machine.
N OT E
Always attempt to line up rear of machine with load so load can be winched in a straight
path. This avoids unnecessary strain and wear on winch side rollers and helps wind cable
onto drum in level layers.
Maintain a sufficient clearance between machine and load to allow machine to turn.
0005-14