[UK-CONTEST] AUTOBRAKE WINCHES

[Chris Tran GM3WOJ]

Hi Steve

I have the same type of auto-braked winch on a standard P60,
which is tilted over roughly once every 6 months or so.

There are 2 possible problems if the winch has not been used
for a long time.  Firstly, this type of winch relies on a screw
thread (basically inside the shaft which holds the cable drum)
unwinding about half a turn or more when you turn the handle 
anti-clockwise.   If the winch has lain idle for a while, this
screw-thread will have rusted, and you cannot separate the
two halves even slightly i.e. the brake jams 'on' with no
clearance either side of the brake pads.  (Very little clearance
is needed, just enough to allow the brake pads to do their job)

Secondly, these brake pads are prone to cracking - they
will still work (probably) but will need replaced.  They are
rather difficult to source, but maybe at vast cost  from
Elliot Versatower ?

You will soon know if you have the first problem, because
the cable drum will be very stiff to move, if at all.  The only
solution is to unwind the cable, remove the winch from the
tower, and dismantle it completely (which may be difficult
if the thread is badly rusted) Use graphite grease or copper
grease sparingly on the large thread to avoid a repeat.

I would also examine carefully the eyelet on the end of the 
8mm luffing cable, and replace the whole cable if there is
the slightest sign of corrosion. A cable is very cheap compared
to what could be destroyed !

Hope this helps.
73
Chris   GM3WOJ