There's a lot of good information on winching techniques here... thanks! One question that I have not been able to find an answer for... if I am using my winch to recover another vehicle, should I avoid having my Jeep in Park? What's the safest technique to avoid damage to my own transmission if I'm on the open road and don't have a rock or bolder to wedge my front tires behind?

 

Anchor your Rig to a tree or land anchor, this is the best way to go.


Go Topless :-)

 

The park pawl isn't designed to hold much. I would not risk it.

 

The Pull-pal is good to 11,000 lbs and works great for anchoring a rig for a rescue.. Pull-pal website uses this method in there demonstrations.


Go Topless :-)

 

The Pull Pal may be rated for 11,000 lbs, but it can pull out of the ground at much less.

I still wouldn't risk the park pawl in the transmission. It's not even good to park on a hill against it.

 

I totally agree about the transmission..

 

Great suggestions about the land anchor! So, let me amend the scenario a bit... pulling a car out of a snowy ditch with no place to use the anchor (due to cross traffic). What's the recommendation then? Neutral with parking brake? Are there chocks that should be used?

 

I understand your desire to be a good Samaritan, and help those stuck in the winter but you are neither mechanically equipped, nor sufficiently indemnified to do so. Any damage to another car, regardless of the owners statements to the contrary at the time, can end up being liabilities that you'll absorb. It is one thing to assist persons on the trail or off-road, and quite another to engage in providing emergency services on public roads. That is what tow trucks, with their proper equipment, lighting, and insurance are for.

 

You may be over thinking it. I just keep my foot on the brake while winching from inside the Jeep. You are out of harm's way, and you can keep the Jeep from moving.

I have helped many people out. I make it clear I am not responsible for damage, etc. Then I am very careful to get them out safely. If they are too stuck or it is a dangerous situation, I let the pros handle it.

 

Personally if I was assisting someone who has skidded into a snowy ditch with traffic on the same road, I'd just pick them up and take them to a safe warm place.. Putting more people in harms way is crazy..


Go Topless :-)