•Clevis/D-Shackle:The
D-Shackle is a safe means for
connecting the looped ends of
cables and straps. The shackle’s
pin is threaded to allow easy
removal.
•Choker chains:These can be used to hook-up another vehicle or
sharp objects for an anchor point. Chains, however, will damage or kill
trees.
•Tow hooks:Secured properly to your vehicle’s frame, tow hooks
provide an attachment point for wire hooks, straps and chains.
•Tree trunk protector:Typically made of tough, high-quality nylon a
tree trunk protector provides an attachment point for the winch rope
to a wide variety of anchor points and objects, as well as protect living
trees.
•Heavy blanket:In certain situations you may decide to throw a
heavy blanket or similar object over the wire rope. A heavy blanket
such as a quilted mover’s blanket can absorb energy should the wire
rope break. Place it on the wire rope midway between the winch and
the anchor point. Do this before the wire rope is put under tension.
Do not approach or move the blanket once tension is applied. Do not
allow it to get pulled into the fairlead. If necessary to move or remove
the blanket, slack the tension on the wire rope first.
•Recovery strap:Used to “snatch” out a stuck vehicle. Never use a
recovery strap in a winching operation.
Never attach a recovery strap to the winch hook to the increase
the length of a pull. Never attempt to tow a vehicle with the
recovery strap attached directly to the winch hook. Never use “bungie”
straps that develop tremendous and potentially dangerous amounts of
force when stretched. The recovery strap is designed to stretch;
because of this, it stores energy and could react like a rubber band
should your rigging fail.
•Shovels and hand tools (i.e., axe or off-road jack):These come
in handy when additional assistance is needed during winching
activities.
2008 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Supplement
USA(fus)
Driver Controls
7
