Polaris 2014 ATV Sportsman 550 EPS - Manual (Page 77)

75
WINCH GUIDE
Winch Operation
4. Always use the hook strap when
handling the hook.
WARNING! Never put your fingers into
the hook. This could lead to SEVERE
INJURY.
A. Attach the hook itself onto the
load or use a tow strap or chain
to secure the load to the winch
cable.
Tip: A “tow strap” is NOT intended to stretch. A “recovery strap” is designed to
stretch.
WARNING! Never use a recovery strap when winching due to the excessive
energy that can be released if the winch cable breaks. This can result in
SEVERE INJURY or DEATH. See the Shock Loading section on page 80.
B. Never hook the winch cable back onto itself. This will damage the
winch cable and may result in winch cable failure.
WARNING! Replace the winch cable at the first sign of damage to prevent
SEVERE INJURY or DEATH in the event of failure. For your safety, always
replace POLARIS winch parts (including the cable) with genuine POLARIS
replacement parts available at your authorized POLARIS dealer.
C. If possible, keep the winch cable aligned with the centerline of the
winching vehicle. This will help the spooling of the winch cable and
reduce the load on the fairlead.
D. If freeing a stuck vehicle by attaching to a tree, use an item such as a
tow strap to avoid damaging the tree during winch operation. Sharp
cables and chains can damage and even kill trees. Please remember
to TreadLightly® (treadlightly.org).
E. Before operating the winch, be sure
that the safety latch on the winch
cable hook is fully seated when the
load is attached.
F. Never operate your winch with a
damaged hook or latch. Always
replace damaged parts before using
the winch.
NO YES
NO YES