How to Change a Winch Cable on a Four Wheeler

The steel cable on a four wheeler's winch is connected to a turn wheel inside the winch by a nut at the end of the cable. Replace the cable as soon as any damage is visible or if the cable breaks. You can purchase the replacement cable from the winch manufacturer. When you buy the replacement cable be sure to get one specific to your winch; there should be a serial number on the winch that will tell the manufacturer which cable to sell you.

Things You'll Need

• Ratchet set

Instructions

1. Turn the power to the winch off. Flip the gear release button on the face of the winch to release the turn wheel.

2. Pull the winch cable all the way out until you see the turn wheel. The nut securing the cable to the turn wheel will be on the right or left side of the turn wheel in clear view at the end of the cable.

3. Remove the nut from the end of the cable using the ratchet set. Pull the cable from the turn wheel and set it aside.

4. Insert the metal stem on the end of the new cable into the hole that the old cable was in. Tighten the nut as much as possible using the ratchet and socket.

5. Turn the power on and place the winch in reverse. Allow the winch to pull the new cable around the turn wheel, making sure that the cable does not overlap itself.

References

• "ATVs: Everything You Need to Know"; Steve Casper; 2006