Just installed my winch and noticed a problem. There is very little room between the back of the winch and my grill. The wires coming off the back of the winch are rubbing on the grill and already starting to wear a groove in the grill. Any ideas on what I can put between the wires and grill for protection? I already have the wires pulled back about as far as they will go.

 

I used some rubber hose I had left over from other projects (like you buy at the parts store..coolant hose, heater hose, etc.) Cut to length, split with a knife or razor, and then wrap the wire. I did this not only going under the grill but anywhere there could be some rubbing all the way to the battery. The inside diameter of the hose should be close to that of the wire for a snug fit, then secure with zip ties.

 

Ya..I guess I didnt describe it well enough. The wire is wrapped good enough but I am worried about rubbing a hole in my grill.

 

Can you post a picture of what is happening?

Might be able to offer better suggestions for you.

 

Mine rubs the grill to, but doesn't bother me. You honestly can't see it, but depending on the winch, some are real close. The grill is flexible so I wouldn't be real concerned

 

I guess I am looking for something with an adhesive back to stick on my grill to stop the wires from rubbing a hole in the grill. Couldnt find anything at the hardware store.

 

Judging by he pictures, I think it will be fine. You could try and stuff a small piece thin cloth or something there if your worries about it but it really shouldn't move

 

I have the same issue on mine. I also zip tied the wires to the rear bar of the winch like you have done. The issue I ran into there was the first time I used the winch the cable caught the zip tie and immediately removed it. Only one wire is barely contacting a portion of the grill and is secure but with normal vibration just driving it has dulled the paint slightly where it is making contact. Given enough time it is going to work its way through the paint which is my concern. I was looking for something that was self adhesive and could be trimmed to fit. I think I'm about to take a trip up to Wally mart and see if they have any of the soft side Velcro pads I can trip down or a thin pad you'd put on furniture legs to prevent floor scratching. Let me know if you come up with a better option.

 

Can you route the wires straight back and through the opening in the grill?

Clear abrasion material like 3M makes for paint protection on the front of cars might work.

 

How about going through one of the grill slots instead of trying to go under the grill?

Like this....