Skip to main content
How-tos

How To Install and Pretension a Synthetic Winch Rope

We've all seen those Facebook or YouTube videos of various Jeeps using a winch to pull someone out of trouble. And as Jeep owners, it is certainly a powerful feeling knowing your vehicle can step up and answer the bell if needed.

However, if your plans include adding a winch to your vehicle soon, you may not realize these great recovery devices are more than just simply bolt up, wire up applications. So for today's Mod Monday, we're going to look at how to correctly get your winch line stretched out and spooled to the drum under load, so your new winch is ready to go when you need it most.


-----

We all love Jeep mods - whether its something installed on our own rigs, or one we ogled in the local supermarket parking lot. Each Monday we'll share one of these mods and provide helpful reference tips, useful modification advice, or handy repair tricks designed to kick start your week. Have tips on a mod you've done and want to share? Email us: [email protected].

Top Jeep Articles

  • October 16, 2026
  • 8 min read
Jeep Lift Kit Q&A
A Jeep suspension lift can be a great modification for your vehicle. And if you have questions, here is what you need to know.
READ MORE
Red Jeep Wrangler with no doors, and aftermarket wheels and tires.
  • October 14, 2026
  • 6 min read
Fender Flare Q&A: Everything Jeep Owners Need to Know
From size and style to installation and maintenance, here’s everything Jeep owners need to know about choosing the right fender flares for their Wrangler.
READ MORE
  • October 12, 2026
  • 4 min read
Jeep Wrangler Switchback Ends Twelve 4 Twelve With A Factory Parts Swap
Jeep closes its yearlong special-edition campaign with contrasting body panels, Gecko-colored beadlock rings and a premium Rubicon X foundation built for far more than visual impact.
READ MORE
  • October 7, 2026
  • 3 min read
Expert Review: Quadratec Ascend Alloy Wheels
Lightweight construction, Jeep-specific fitment and a 2,500-pound load rating give this aggressively styled wheel plenty of substance behind its design.
READ MORE
  • October 1, 2026
  • 3 min read
Expert Review: RES-Q 30 Amp Portable Air Compressor
We take the RES-Q portable compressor to the trail to see how its setup, inflation performance and value stack up on Jeeps running 35- and 37-inch tires.
READ MORE