I was looking into winches and determining whether or not to go with synthetic rope. I have read positives for synthetic such as safer and STRONGER. Obviously, negative is the cost. I plan on going off roading when we move to Colorado, but I don't plan on really using it every day or anything. However, I was looking on another thread at a guy that had Recon 10500, but then I went to look at it and it said the rope was rated at 16500 pounds. So, if I went with the XRC 8, which is rated at 8000, if I went with the Comp one that has the synthetic line, would it actually be rated higher? Or should I just stay with steel if I'm not planning on using it much and just keep it covered?

 

The rating is on the pull power of the winch, not the rope.

 

I have cable and like it. I don't have to worry about cutting it on rocks. Usually when you need it it's not going to be a straight pull it's going a rub on something. I have the vr 10, 000 for my jku. Good luck

 

So it's all about the motor and what it can pull? Nothing to do with the rope?

 

I have heard about the synthetic being prone to this. I am leaning toward steel as well, not just because of the cheaper cost. As my buddy said, "Steel cables have been around a long time for a reason."

 

Medical leeches were around for a long time too.

 

Synthetic Pros:

Light weight
Strong
Safer if the line breaks

Cons:
Not as durable
$$$

Steel Pros:
Durable
Strong
Cheaper


Cons:
Heavy
Dangerous if line breaks


Both recoil when something breaks. If half your hook or mounting point breaks on either it will become a dangerous projectile so always use caution.

 

I would go with the synthetic rope. It us far superior IMO. As a matter of fact, it is required in competitions. Synthetic rope is much stronger and safer. It is much lighter and can't rust. Yes you have to be careful with it as far as abrasions, but that is what rock guards are for. Well worth the added cost.

 

Haha. Gotcha. You're right, I think he was just saying it's durable though. Maybe leeches are too? haha. Nice avatar also. We never bothered with the signs in Iraq though .

 

I know they run about 150-200 more in cost. I'm trying to convince myself that it is worth it in the long run because of all the threads I have read about them. I guess I will just have to pull the trigger on one or the other. I want the xrc 10, my buddy said an 8 is too borderline because I have a 4 door. Just have to decide on the rope now. Looks like I got a little decision on my hands...