Hi Guys,
Couldn't really find a definite answer - so maybe there isn't one?
I have an xd9000i with 125' of 5/16 steel cable. Does that mean I should replace it with exactly the same in synthetic or would I be better off going to 100' of 3/8?
Kinda spendy stuff so I only want to buy it once.
thanks guys!

 

Get 3/8's it will last long in the sun. Also get a winch cover for summer to make your rope last longer. I've got about 8 years on my current TJ rope and 3 years on my JKU rope.

Rope is a great safety feature.

 

I got the 3/8” with the same thimble as Boosted. I also got the warn neoprene winch cover to protect the line from the sun. The sun fades the blue before too long. I also protected the rope around the thimble with electrical tape.

 

I went with 125 ft of 5/16 superline xd. I would recommend 100 ft though because if not wound properly the line will rub the bottom of the winch plate and I am
not able to pull the line out by hand. I either need to power out a little or hook to a tree and back up. Best part of the superline xd is the covering on the winch line to protect it from the elements.

 

I got 3/8" for my M8000. You do lose some length because of the thickness but you gain that much more strength. 5/16" steel cable breaking strength is about 9800lbs. AM Steel blue 3/8” line is rated at around 17,600lbs so you almost double the strength of the line. If you need more line you can always get a line extension. Shorter line can also benefit you if you are doing a relatively short pull because it will reduce the raps on the winch drum and increase the pulling capacity of the winch.

 

Superline Xd from Masterpull has a 21,000 break strength in 5/16". Over 26,000 for 3/8". I think the 5/16" is more than sufficient for my 2 door even if it's mired to the doors in mud.

 

I have 3/8s and it hasnt failed me yet, lots of hard pulls.

 

3/8" is stronger and not much price difference

 

I'm thinking of going with the rope to save weight. How strong is the rope compared to cable?
Thanks

 

I have the same winch you do. Go with 3/8; you'll benefit more from the additional strength than extra length (they make line extensions for that). Remember, it's not just your rig's weight to consider, but the heavier one you may have to pull. Buy lines made from Amsteel Blue or Dyneema SK-75, and consider a Viking Safety Thimble over a hook. They require using a d-ring shackle which is a more secure connection. CM makes 3/4" shackles rated at 6.5 tons, not the more common 4.75 tons, and are US made.