I am looking to purchase the X20 by Smitybuilt.

But, there is $200.00 or so difference between wire rope and synthetic rope. Other than weight and rust, what is my extra $200.00 buying me?

I am thinking the 10K for my JK Wrangler.

Thanks,
John

 

Primarily it buys you safety. Also synth somewhat easier to handle and respool etc.

 

WOL posted a little piece comparing the difference between the two. It's on the forum somewhere, I can't seem to find it now. Synthetic is less than half the weight of steel. They don't carry nearly as much of a kinetic load as steel so if they fail there isn't an arm removing whip flying about. ect..

 

Synthetic is also very gentle to bare hands, that + weight is why I use it.
My hands thank me every time I use my winch!

 

Be careful when using synthetic on rock ledges, I've read somewhere that it can tear/burn from friction on a rock face/ledge. I plan to switch out my cable for synthetic exclusively for the weight saving.

 

you also have to keep it very clean otherwise it will wear and snap which i witnessed on the weekend.because of this i will never switch to synthetic

 

No kinks is another reason, when a wire rope gets a kink, it can become weakened at that spot.

Synthetic don't kink or cut your skin.

I would use an insulator on a rocky edge to prevent wearing or damage to the line.

I am going with synthetic, its also stronger at the same size.

 

Thanks guys. I am leaning toward synthetic as well.
My problem is trying to find a front bumper that I like.

 

True. When you get synth rope it will come with a sleeve that will protect the rope for this exact purpose. Like with my Warn 9.0 RC it has like a 5ft sleeve thatyou can slide where ever you need it so it wont rub on and sharp surfaces/objects. i like they synth better personally and I believe it is stronger than steel.

 

Good to note. I'll have to pay attention to that. Thank you