Another reason why I go warn. Its hard to tell in these photos but they went away from the Tiny screw and crimp on the Zeon models and now use a "plug" for better words and there is no way it can hurt the line like that.

The load rating on the new Warn drum is as much as the winch .

 

I would suggest using this quick easy tip to secure your rope to your drum
A simple over under "knot" around the drum will save you a lot of hassle.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2nTAATAHjE

 

It is a nice setup, but a pain to install! After tearing several zip ties, including the one they sent in the box, I finally greased up the line and used coat hangers with some pipe insulation to make a handle. Even then it took all of my strength and weight to get it through. But, that sucker ain't coming out that's for sure!

 

X2.
Coat hanger, check.
Didn't use any lube, I didn't know if it would eventually break down the rope.
I'm 220lbs, it took all of my weight and strength. Never sat fully flush but seems good to me. Man oh man I hope it's good.

 

OP: IDK... sounds like you got a new part and are happy?

But... for those that are reading and wondering, there is a better solution. First of all, cut off that little metal piece of junk and put in in the trash, where it belongs. Then, take the rope and wind it about five or six times, nice and tight.... while holding those wrappings, get out some Duct Tape and go to town. Then spool in the rest as you would normally.

I'd stay far away from the previous suggestion to wrap your line messy... garbage in, garbage out.