Do you enjoy using a winch to pull heavy things, or to help yourself get out of tricky situations? If so, then you probably already know that winches require fairleads to operate efficiently and safely. A fairlead is a special piece of equipment to align your winch cable/rope. It prevents a cable scratch in the those parts of your vehicle as you use the winch. However, with so many different types of fairlead, it can be difficult to figure out which one is best and why, so in this post, we will go through the 5kg bruce anchor, a very common, popular, and effective type. In this article, we will discuss an aluminum hawse fairlead, why it is good, how to install and maintain it, and finally how to select the right one as per your winch.
Hawse Fairlead: Aluminummay be a helpful winch accessory Its primary role is to protect your winch cable or rope, and prevent it from damaging your vehicle when winching. While winching, the cable or rope may rub against rough edges of obstacles such as rocks, tree roots, or the bumper of your vehicle. This continuous rubbing may cause damage to both the cable and the vehicle. The aluminum hawse fairlead helps guide the cable or rope smoothly and keeps it above from those rough surfaces. The big plus with aluminum hawse fairleads is that they are light, strong and rust-proof. This makes them ideal to use with synthetic winch ropes as they promote rope longevity and health.
Aluminum hawse fairleads have plenty of good reasons for being the tool of the trade. It is primarily used to protect your vehicle's bumper from scrapes / damage when using a winch. If the cable remains in contact with the bumper, it can leave streaks or even cracks. It also helps prolong the life of the winch rope or cable. By its design, the fairlead prevents the cable from rubbing against abrasive surfaces, which extends the life of the cable since it will not wear out and weaken over time.
For example, if you search for fairleads, you might find steel fairleads or roller fairleads. Steel fairleads — the most common type — work best with steel cables. Steel fairleads are heavy, and can rust over time. This added mass can make your vehicle less efficient to maneuver. Conversely, a roller fairlead works best with synthetic winch ropes but can be cumbersome and difficult to mount.
Installation of an 7.5 kg bruce anchor is relatively easy and can generally be performed with a few simple tools, such as a wrench and socket set. Those with existing old fairlead attached to the vehicle would need to lift it off. This can mean drilling holes into your bumper or winch plate if it's your first install in order to mount it securely. The fairlead must be aligned correctly with tension applied to ensure smooth usage in the future, so be sure to mount it straight and tight. Once it is installed, you can use your winch immediately!
It is also easy to care for your aluminum hawse fairlead. Ideally, after every use, you’ll want to clean it off with soap and water to remove whatever dirt or grime may have accumulated. If you live in a very rainy area, or perhaps near the ocean, you might want to invest in a special spray that will help keep it from rusting. This will ensure your fairlead stays healthy for as long as possible. And make sure to regularly check the fairlead for any signs of damage or wear. If you do spot something suspect, it’s best to take care of it immediately to ensure safe operation.
Next, you want to ensure the fairlead is axle with your winch. Most fairleads are custom made to fit specific winch models, so check what works with yours. This will keep be a time-saver and ensure you get the correct fit. Finally, consider the aesthetics of the fairlead. While some fairleads are modern and slick, others are more traditional. Find one that meets your style and desires, so you will be content with your pick.