winch cable snapped

[dbstepside]

not really sure where this would go forum wise but i have a question. my buddies rearend locked up in his truck 2 hours from home. when i went to load it my winch cable snapped. i was wondering if there is a way to replace that cable or even better reuse that cable as i only lost about 5 feet of cable. my problem is that my cable is clamped around the hook and i don't know where i could get another one that big. my buddy said he'd pay for fixing it and since he's gonna be out alot on a rearend and driveshaft since it snapped at the yoke at bounced off the ground a few times i was gonna try and do this as cost efficent as possible. thanks for any advice in advance.

[OJ1988]

A lot of the jeep guys I know have gone to a rope to replace the cables on their wenches. They are a lot safer when they snap. Not sure brand or anything, but I'm sure a little googling might bring it up. May be another option for you.

[PanelDeland]

You need to first inspect the cable.If it is frayed,rusted or has broken wires,it needs replacement.Also check your pulleys etc. on the winch and cable run.If it all looks good,cut the cable square and cut the hook loose from the cable.Then use a metal sleeve(looks like a half round metal guard) on the loop you put thru the hook eye.Then a couple of cable clamps,turning one each way.They should be available at any Farm supply or hardaware store.
If the cable is damaged ,replace it.You will need to completely unwind it from the drum and look to see how it attaches.You can use the same method for attching the hook.

Tou didn't say what type winch or it's use but be warned that a wrecker cable or other lifting type winch/cable should be checked and replaced often.Keep it lubed to make it last longer and fray less.There will be more/better info on 4X4 forums for the rope type cables and probably on winch cables and repair.

[Stocker]

Any logging or heavy construction shop should be able to cut and re-crimp that cable for you.

[MARKDTN]

Also any place that makes slings for industry can re-crimp a cable swage. If it is damaged at all (rust, frayed, crimped, etc.), you will want to just replace it.

[Ackattack]

I would probably just replace it. I would bet its old and corroded already, and you'll just break it again. Sometimes being safe isn't cheap.

[chisler]

Just remember if you go with the clamps...that the live end of the cable takes the saddle part....and the short end of the cable takes the u-bolt.....remember this phrase....Never saddle a dead horse!!

[crushermechanic]

a sling shop can make a new cable for you while you wait. i had to replace the cable on my crane winch a few weeks ago. it was a 3/8 cable and was less than $150. i wouldnt take a chance with clamps. swedged cable ends are the only way to go.

[TrkEnvy]

Originally Posted by chisler

Just remember if you go with the clamps...that the live end of the cable takes the saddle part....and the short end of the cable takes the u-bolt.....remember this phrase....Never saddle a dead horse!!

That phrase brings me back to my Ironworker apprentice days.. building safety cables..

[dbstepside]

thanks for all the help. i knew there would be smarter people than me on here. i'm pretty sure i'm gonna replace the cable, it has a few more suspect areas and better safe than sorry. again thanks and good advice from all.

[MARKDTN]

That is a good idea. If you ever see what a loaded cable can do when it snaps....well you don't want to.

[chisler]

Originally Posted by TrkEnvy

That phrase brings me back to my Ironworker apprentice days.. building safety cables..

Thats too funny TrkEnvy...I got that from my millwright apprentice days!!!!