Newsletter excerpts

ATV Safety

Submitted by Mike Micucci

ATV's get stuck sooner or later.  If you ride with me it will be sooner.  Having a winch is like having a tire repair kit or a canteen, or a compressor, or a raincoat.  Having a winch and using it properly can probably get you out and home in time for dinner.  Here are the basics that you need to know.  First, purchase a winch that will handle your wheeler (ATV).  Install it or have it installed properly.  It's best to mount it so that the bracket is connected to the frame and not just the rack or bumper. All wiring should be routed to remain free from sharp edges and moving parts.  The ON/OFF control should be within easy reach.  A free spooling unit will have a selector that let's you reel out cable quickly.  Once you engage the selector the winch motor can spool the cable out or retract the cable back onto the winch drum.

OK, now you're stuck and you have your winch mounted on your wheeler.  I guess that you think that those "mud eating" tires that you paid extra for didn't work.  Leave your motor running; dismount the wheeler (if you dare).  Reach for your selector switch and go to free spool.  Pull out the cable and secure it to a tree or rock.  Use a nylon strap (tree saver) to protect the tree and the cable.  Never hook the cable back to itself.  Go back to the selector switch and engage the winch.  Get back on the wheeler and turn the On/Off switch to tighten the cable and pull you out.  You can help it along by putting your wheeler in gear and driving along.  Once you're on solid ground disconnect the cable and retract it fully.  Remember, a winch is a powerful tool.  Keep your fingers free from the moving parts, wear your helmet and goggles while you're winching.  If the cable breaks or becomes unhooked, all "heck" is going to break loose. Placing your jacket midway over the cable can help lessen any cable kick back.  For more information, you can go online to Warn Industries Inc., or Superwinch Inc.  That's all for now, have fun and ride safely.