Tow Ropes, Chains & Straps
About Tow Ropes, Chains & Straps
Ropes, chains and straps do the pulling and the holding: a winch line that spools onto a drum, a recovery rope that connects one machine to another, or a tie-down that keeps cargo from moving. The group also has small hardware, such as a tow loop for the RZR and a safety pin with a chain.
Decide the job first, because these three kinds of gear are rated differently and should not stand in for one another. For a winch line, match the diameter and length to your winch and its drum. Synthetic winch rope here is listed in sizes such as 3/16 and 1/4 inch at 50 feet, and upgrade kits name the winch models they suit. A recovery rope, such as the 5/8 inch by 20 foot UTV recovery rope, connects two machines and is not meant to spool on a drum. Tie-down sets secure cargo and are not for pulling. Check the stated working load on anything you buy.
Brands in this category include Warn, Curt, Bubba Ropes, Polisport and Open Trail. A line is only half of a recovery setup, so see Winches for the winch itself, along with Trailer Hitches and Plows. All of them sit within Towing, Recovery & Accessories.
FAQs on UTV and ATV ropes, chains and straps
How do I pick a replacement synthetic winch rope?
Match the rope diameter and length to what your winch is designed for, using the winch manual or the listing for the rope. A rope sized for a larger winch may not spool or run through the fairlead properly. Check its stated strength against your winch rating, and confirm the end fitting suits your hook.
Can I use a ratchet tie-down to pull a stuck UTV?
No. Cargo tie-downs are made to hold a load still, not to take the shock of a recovery pull, and a failed strap can snap back. Use a rope or strap rated for recovery, attach it to a solid recovery point, and read its working load before you pull.
Where should I attach a tow rope on my machine?
Use the tow points or recovery loops made for the job, such as a factory tow hook or a frame-mounted loop. Do not attach to a bumper, a cargo rack or a trailer ball, because they can tear off under load. The owner's manual shows the correct points on your model.
What should I check on a rope or strap before using it?
Look for cuts, frayed or melted fibers, stiff or flattened sections and damaged hooks or stitching. Retire any rope or strap that shows damage instead of trusting it. Keep it away from sharp edges and hot parts while in use, and never stand in line with a loaded rope.
How should I look after synthetic winch rope?
Rinse off mud and sand, let it dry, and spool it back evenly under light tension. Keep it away from sharp edges, hot exhaust parts and long sun exposure, all of which weaken the fibers. Inspect it regularly and replace it if it is cut or worn.
