So I tried to pull a buddy out the other day and my winch won't pull with with a load on it. It spools in and out fine but as soon as its hooked up to something it wont pull and the drum on the side spins. I don't know much about winches this is my first one so please help.

 

1 - Pull your winch line all the way out
2 - Check the end of the winch if is connected to the drum
3 - If not connected, there is your problem

Solution: Change the end or Change your winch line with a better (Heavy duty) end.

Tell me how was it, good luck body.

 

Well I think it's connected cuz the drum itself isn't moving. Only part moving is the end piece on the other side of my free spool switch I'll post a picture of what I'm talking about. The winch is a Chicago electric I think. Has no name just rew10000 on it and I've seen those at harbor freight so it's not the greatest winch. It came with my bumper cuz I bought the whole set up used.

 

Take some pictures, that will help.

 

The end part on the right is the only part spinning and I don't think it's suppose cuz it never has before.

 

Mmmm... The best way it is to open the winch (4 bolts maybe) and check the inside. The important part is the mechanism, try to pull the winch line and check the inside at the same time, im 100% sure you will find the problem in that way. Try to take a picture from the inside or a video will be the best. Good luck!

 

Ok I'll give it a shot. If something is messed up inside, do you know if anyone can rebuild it cuz I've never heard of anyone getting a winch rebuilt.

 

Yes it is expensive, if your winch cost more 1000$ i say yes do it, but a winch for 300$ 500$, just buy a new one or buy the broken part and DIY and safe some money. But first, check if you have any warranty with the winch, some companies give between 1 - 3 years warranties.

 

Yea even if there was a warranty it's no good. I have no papers or anything for it cuz i bought it used but I'll rip it apart and see what's goin on. If its something I don't feel comfortable doing I'll just end up gettin a new one when I get the money I guess.

 

Good choice to wait and buy a new one, for example my RECON winch cost me 429$ including 3 year warranties, 10500lb, water proof and synthetic rope.