Thread: Using a winch with synthetic rope

The 130 I've just bought has a 9,000lb Warn winch fitted with synthetic rope. I've had winches with steel cable for years, never used this stuff. What considerations are there when using it (apart from the obvious avoiding sharp rocks etc)? I did see something on here a while back about not winding it on the drum in neat layers, couldn't find the thread.

Fibre Rope needs to be kept free of sand/grit from mud etc., any grit in the rope can cut individual fibres, weakening the rope. Nylon type ropes have continuous fibres (strands) from one end of the rope to the other, each one contributing to the overall strength of the rope. So if you cut a number of strands (with grit or abrasion) it affects the total strength. Hemp and Sisal ropes only have strands (fibres) around 150mm long and friction holds the rope together when woven (twisted) into rope, so a few fibres broken doesn't affect the whole rope.
Main points are keep away from heat, abrasion and wash thoroughly after immersion in mud or sand, good luck, Regards Frank.