Winch cable keeps breaking

[Guest Al]

I have a 2014 Polaris 550 and the winch cable keeps breaking.  All I use it for is plowing.  It has 3/16" cable on it now. Should I replace with a larger diameter cable or go with a synthetic rope?  Any advice would be welcome.  Thanks!

[leechlake]

I had the same problem with the rope.  In my case it was user error winching it in too far and stressing it.  Either get a stopper or just keep retying it when it happens.  Normal knot works.

[LindellProStaf]

Yup operator error.  I break mine once a year.  Used to be 3 times a year.  I now just barely raise my plow off the ground.  Just give the switch another tap if needed.

[rundrave]

leechlake is right about winching in too far and stressing. I would get the stopper as suggested but also swap out to the synthetic rope as well

[Walleyehooker]

I break mine once in a while too from stressing it to much. I only use it for the plow so I have plenty of cable left but ive cut off a few feet over the years. Its an easy 5 minute fix when it breaks so I just live with it.

I guess I would rather have it stress and break rather than going with heavier cable that will stress and break other things that are more expensive

[Cheers]

synthetic rope breaks almost as often as cable . The benefit is that it is much easier to work with , you can cut the damaged piece with a knife and tie a simple knot to re attach the plow . Also no wire strands to hurt your fingers .

[gunner55]

We put a stopper on ours as soon as we got it. 

[Guest Al]

Ok I changed my name and account.  I have added a stopper and have been careful how far I bring it in.  Still keeps breaking.  I think part of the problem is from the cable winding and pinching itself as it goes into the winch.  I only use the winch for the plow and that is why I was wondering if maybe a heavier cable would be ok.

[ESSGuy]

I have a friend who replaced the cable with a boat winch type strap. Says it works great. Also make sure the rollers are free and roll smoothly.

[Walleyehooker]

Same problem but like mentioned I would rather repair cable once in a while then bend or break the other stuff.

[Mike89]

I have had 4 different Wheelers and have never broke a cable, just lucky likely, but friends have they are a quick fix for the most part