Deuce Winch Questions

[crusty68]

I searched, but (maybe I missed it) I didn't find what I was looking for.

I was given a deuce winch. It is in poor shape, but I would like to make it work if possible. Here's a few questions:
Does the Cable wind out from the top of the drum?
Can someone cover operation? The handleon the pass. side is busted. What does it do/where can I get one?
Where can I get cable?

Thanks in advance

 

[NDT]

Yes, top.
The handle engages the shaft to the drum. You disengage the lever to allow the spool to freewheel and pay out cable by hand. There is also a small plunger that locks the drum from turning during road travel.
The cable is 1/2 and about 130 ft long. Google "wire rope" and your home town.

The handle is available from surplus dealers, just call around and shop price.

The winch is worth about $750 in good shape

 

[cranetruck]

Check TMs for more info, TM9-2320-209-20 for example.

 

[crusty68]

So there isn't anything special about the rope? I can just buy a bunch of it, swage some ends on and have a field day?

Do you guys know if the handle is cast steel? If so, I could fashion a nice custom handle to operate it. I am not looking for a restoration.

 

[cranetruck]

Well, there is wire rope and then there is wire rope, check TM 5-725 (Rigging) for all the good info.

 

[crusty68]

Thanks for the quick replies. I am most likely not putting it on a deuce, so I won't need "as strong" of rope, but it would be nice to have a big factor of safety. For that matter, the winch alone is a big factor of safety

I guess that when I find a local supplier, then I will find out the strength and compare it to stock.

Again, thanks

 

[m16ty]

The winch is worth about $750 in good shape

WOW. Really? I wouldn't think just the winch would bring that.

I've got one I'll take $750 for.