Superwinch LP8500 Winch Gen II User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation, installation, and maintenance of your Superwinch LP8500 Winch Gen II. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure proper function and to prevent injury or damage.

Figure 1: Superwinch LP8500 Winch Gen II, showing the main unit, steel hawse, and handheld remote control.

Safety Information

Always prioritize safety when operating the winch. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or property damage.

• Read the Manual: Understand all instructions and warnings before operation.
• Wear Protective Gear: Always wear gloves and eye protection.
• Keep Hands Clear: Never touch the wire rope or hook when the winch is under load or operating. Use the provided handsaver strap.
• Maintain Safe Distance: Operate the winch from a safe distance using the remote control.
• Check Connections: Ensure all electrical connections are secure and free from corrosion.
• Avoid Overloading: Do not exceed the winch's rated line pull capacity.
• Inspect Regularly: Before each use, inspect the wire rope, hook, and all components for damage or wear.
• Automatic Braking: The winch features automatic load holding braking to prevent wire rope slippage.
• Sealed Components: The sealed solenoid and circuit breaker provide reliable operation in various weather conditions.

Package Contents

Verify that all components are present in the package:

• 1 x Superwinch LP8500 series winch
• 1 x Powder coated hawse fairlead (mounting plate not included)
• Color-coded leads for battery connection
• 1 x 94' (29m) length of 5/16" (7.9mm) steel wire rope
• 1 x Heavy-duty latched hook with thimble
• 1 x Rubber handheld remote with 15' (4.5m) cable
• 1 x 4" handsaver strap
• Mounting hardware
• 1 x Sealed solenoid
• 1 x Circuit breaker component
• 1 x User manual (this document)

Setup and Installation

Proper installation is crucial for the winch's performance and safety. A mounting plate (sold separately) is required for installation.

1. Mounting: Secure the winch to a suitable mounting surface using the provided mounting hardware. The bolt pattern is 10" x 4.5" (254mm x 114.3mm). Ensure the mounting surface can support the winch's weight and rated pull capacity.
2. Electrical Connection: Connect the color-coded leads to your vehicle's 12V DC battery. Ensure connections are tight and free from corrosion. The sealed solenoid and circuit breaker component should be integrated into the wiring as per the wiring diagram (refer to the full user manual PDF for detailed diagrams).
3. Fairlead Installation: Install the powder-coated hawse fairlead. This guides the wire rope and protects it from abrasion.
4. Wire Rope Spooling: Before initial use, carefully unspool the entire length of the 5/16" (7.9mm) steel wire rope. Then, re-spool it under a light load (e.g., pulling a vehicle on flat ground) to ensure even layering and prevent damage to the rope.
5. Remote Connection: Connect the 15' (4.5m) rubber handheld remote to the winch's control port.

Operating Instructions

Familiarize yourself with the winch controls and operation before attempting a recovery.

1. Preparation:
   • Ensure the vehicle is securely braked.
   • Identify a suitable anchor point.
   • Unspool enough wire rope to reach the anchor point. The lever-action freespooling clutch allows for fast manual payout.
   • Attach the heavy-duty latched hook to the anchor point.
   • Place the 4" handsaver strap over the wire rope near the hook to assist in handling and prevent injury.
2. Winching In:
   • Ensure the freespooling clutch is engaged (lever in the "engaged" position).
   • Using the handheld remote, press the "Winch In" button to begin retracting the wire rope.
   • Maintain a safe distance from the winch and wire rope during operation.
   • Monitor the wire rope spooling onto the drum to ensure it layers evenly.
3. Winching Out (Power Out):
   • To power out the wire rope, press the "Winch Out" button on the remote. This is useful for controlled payout or when the freespooling clutch is not desired.
4. Freespooling:
   • To quickly unspool the wire rope manually, disengage the lever-action freespooling clutch. This allows the drum to rotate freely.
   • Always re-engage the clutch before winching in.
5. Post-Operation:
   • Once the operation is complete, disconnect the remote control.
   • Ensure the wire rope is neatly spooled on the drum.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and reliable performance of your Superwinch LP8500.

• Wire Rope Inspection: Regularly inspect the steel wire rope for kinks, fraying, broken strands, or corrosion. Replace the rope if any damage is observed.
• Electrical Connections: Check battery terminals and winch connections for corrosion. Clean and tighten as necessary.
• Lubrication: The winch's internal components are pre-lubricated. Refer to the full user manual for any specific lubrication points or schedules.
• Cleaning: Keep the winch clean from dirt, mud, and debris. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior. Avoid high-pressure washing directly on seals.
• Storage: When not in use, store the winch in a dry environment, ideally covered, to protect it from elements.

Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your winch.

Specifications

Warranty Information

Superwinch, LLC provides a limited warranty for this product:

• Mechanical Components: Two (2) years from the date of purchase.
• Electrical Components: One (1) year from the date of purchase.

This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Any product determined to be defective by Superwinch will be repaired or replaced at Superwinch's discretion, free of charge, upon compliance with their stated procedures. Please retain your proof of purchase.

Support and Contact

For further assistance, technical support, or warranty claims, please contact Superwinch customer service. Refer to the official Superwinch website or the full user manual PDF for the most current contact information.

You can also find additional resources and product information by visiting the Superwinch Store on Amazon.

A comprehensive user manual in PDF format is available for download: User Manual (PDF).