2002 Qwest 12A winch issue

[tgcoates]

Just purchased a used 2002 Qwest 12A pop up that is in excellent condition. I have set it up twice since purchase and have noticed an issue with the winch. Once the top is raised, the winch starts to 'creep' and let some cable out and then seems to stop on its own. The camper has only been set up for a few hours and then lowered and stored so I do not know how much it would creep or lower over night.

I have read the owners manual and searched the forum and can not find any information on this issue and am not sure if it is fixable or if I should replace the winch for the sake of safety.

I contacted the previous owner and he mentioned that he had noticed it but never had any serious issues.

Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks you in advnace. Travis.

[mcfarmall]

Welcome to the forum!!

Look the winch itself over carefully and find the manufacturers name. Look for a model number on the winch then hit the internet. I bet a dime you can get a manual for the winch online somewhere. Some winches have a friction brake the locks when the drum is pulled backwards slightly by a load. Others have a ratcheting pawl that locks into teeth on the cable drum. If you or someone else doused the friction lock with oil or WD-40 then you will accomplish the same result as lubricating the brake pads on your car.