Topic: Synthetic Winch Line Options

[acreves]

I am getting ready to replace my steel cable with a synthetic winch line. I have the option of adding a safety thimble instead of the link hook. Any opinions on the safety thimble? I have used a hook before, but am wondering what the negatives would be if I switched to the safety thimble with a shackle.

[Rocksnail]

whats a safety thimble? I have been buying winches and cables for years and never heard of it. Is it just a eyelet?

[acreves [OP]]

Safety Thimble

[John Doe]

I have 1 and have not had a problem with it. Just remember to carry a shackle.

[Bigredwelder]

I don't have one anymore on my current rig, but I do like them for the fact that you can suck it up to the fairlead and not have to worry about a place to attach the hook and not damage the aluminum fairlead.

[Rocksnail]

Looks a little differnt then the ones i use on my cables. But its what i was thinking it was. I really like using them. As said above, make sure you have your shackle with you.

[acreves [OP]]

Went with the safety thimble.

[Rocksnail]

Good choice. You'll be happy. I never really like a hook. My straps don't fit in them that well. Where a shackle works perfect.

[Dick Foster]

I don't trust hooks either. I have always used a thimble with a shackle.

Good choice. You'll be happy. I never really like a hook. My straps don't fit in them that well. Where a shackle works perfect.