Long lengths of wire rope usually are mounted on reels. Never attempt to unreel wire rope from a stationary reel. Mount the reel on a pipe or rod supported by two uprights. This method allows the reel to turn as the wire rope is pulled. Unreeling presents no problem, but to spool the wire rope back onto the reel may give you some trouble unless you remember that it tends to roll in the opposite direction from the lay. For example, a right-lay wire rope tends to roll to the left. A rightlay wire rope should be started at the left and worked toward the right when spooling over the top of the reel. When spooling under the reel, start at the right and work toward the left. Left-lay wire rope is handled just the opposite.
If wire rope is being run off one reel to a winch drum or another reel, it should be run from top to top or from bottom to bottom.
Short lengths of wire rope may be made up in coils and stopped off tightly for stowage. When uncoiling wire rope, stand the coil on edge and roll it along the deck, uncoiling as you go, as in.
If a wire rope becomes kinked, never try to get the kink out by putting a strain on either part. As soon as a kink is noticed, uncross the ends pushing them apart. This method reverses the process that started the kink. Turn the bent portion over and place it on your knee or some firm object and push downward until the kink straightens out somewhat. Then lay it on a flat surface and pound it smooth with a wooden mallet.
Once a new coil of wire is unwound properly. it can be coiled down for running, the same as line Because of the general toughness and springiness cf the wire, a bight frequently may back up against yet: and try to flop the other way. When it does, don't fight the wire by trying to force down that bight,it will only spring up again.Throw that bight in a back turn and it will lie down.
