Evaluating Allied and PA56 Winches in Heavy Equipment Applications

[MikePhua]

The Role of Winches in Earthmoving and Forestry
Winches are essential tools in heavy equipment operations, especially in forestry, pipeline work, and recovery scenarios. Mounted on dozers, skidders, or specialized carriers, they provide controlled pulling power for dragging logs, repositioning machinery, or tensioning cable systems. A well-functioning winch can mean the difference between a stalled job and a successful recovery.
Two commonly discussed models in this space are the Allied winch and the PA56, each with its own design philosophy, strengths, and quirks. Understanding their mechanical layout, service history, and field performance helps operators and technicians make informed decisions about installation, maintenance, and upgrades.
Terminology Notes

• Drum Winch: A winch design where cable wraps around a rotating drum powered by hydraulic or mechanical drive.
  
• Fairlead: A guide system that ensures cable feeds evenly onto the drum.
  
• Dog Clutch: A mechanical engagement system that locks the drum to the drive shaft.
  
• Brake Band: A friction-based component that holds the drum stationary when not powered.
  

Allied Winch Overview
Allied Systems Company, based in Oregon, has manufactured winches for decades, supplying OEMs like Caterpillar and John Deere. Their winches are known for robust construction, modular design, and wide compatibility across machine platforms.
Strengths include:

• Hydraulic or PTO Drive Options
  • Allows flexibility in installation across different machines
    
• Reliable Brake System
  • Uses a spring-applied, hydraulic-release brake for secure holding
    
• Accessible Service Points
  • Grease fittings, inspection ports, and modular components simplify maintenance
    
• Parts Availability
  

• Strong aftermarket support and rebuild kits available globally
  

A contractor in Alberta used an Allied winch on a D6N dozer for pipeline pulling. After 3,000 hours, the brake band showed wear but was easily replaced without removing the entire unit.
PA56 Winch Overview
The PA56 is a model designation often associated with older, military-grade or industrial winches. While not tied to a single manufacturer, it’s commonly found on legacy machines and repurposed equipment.
Strengths include:

• Heavy-Duty Frame
  • Built for extreme loads and long-duration pulls
    
• Simple Mechanical Layout
  • Easier to diagnose and repair in the field
    
• Manual Engagement System
  

• Preferred by some operators for tactile control
  

However, drawbacks include:

• Limited Parts Availability
  • Sourcing seals, gears, or brake components can be difficult
    
• Noisy Operation
  • Older gear designs produce more vibration and sound
    
• Less Efficient Cable Spooling
  

• Requires careful operator input to avoid bunching or uneven wraps
  

A forestry crew in British Columbia used a PA56 on a repowered skidder. While the winch pulled reliably, they had to fabricate a new fairlead bracket after the original cracked under load.
Common Issues and Field Solutions
Both winch types share some maintenance challenges:

• Cable Bunching or Birdnesting
  • Caused by uneven tension or poor fairlead alignment
    
  • Solution: Install a roller fairlead and train operators on proper spooling technique
    
• Brake Slippage
  • Often due to worn bands or contaminated friction surfaces
    
  • Solution: Clean drum surfaces, replace brake linings, and adjust tension springs
    
• Hydraulic Leak or Pressure Loss
  • Common in Allied units with older seals
    
  • Solution: Replace O-rings and inspect hose routing for abrasion
    
• Clutch Engagement Failure
  

• Dog clutches may wear or misalign over time
  
• Solution: Inspect engagement teeth, replace worn bushings, and verify linkage geometry
  

A technician in Texas rebuilt a PA56 clutch assembly using machined bushings and a custom spring pack. The winch returned to full function and was used for storm debris clearing.
Recommendations for Operators and Fleet Managers
To maximize winch performance:

• Grease all pivot points and cable guides weekly
  
• Inspect brake bands and clutch teeth every 250 hours
  
• Replace cable when frayed or kinked beyond 10% of diameter
  
• Document winch pulls and maintenance intervals
  
• Train operators on safe winch angles and load limits
  

Some fleets retrofit older winches with electronic load sensors and remote engagement systems. A crew in Argentina added a wireless clutch actuator to their Allied winch, improving safety during steep slope operations.
Operator Anecdotes and Field Wisdom
A retired operator in Montana recalled using an Allied winch to recover a stuck grader during a snowstorm. The winch held steady under tension for over an hour while the grader was repositioned, and the brake never slipped.
In Alberta, a pipeline team used a PA56 to tension cable across a ravine. After noticing uneven spooling, they added a guide pulley and trained the operator to feather the clutch during payout. The adjustment reduced cable wear and improved control.
Conclusion
Both Allied and PA56 winches have proven their worth in demanding conditions. Allied offers modern support and modular serviceability, while the PA56 delivers brute strength and mechanical simplicity. Choosing between them depends on machine compatibility, service access, and operational needs. With proper care and thoughtful upgrades, either winch can be a reliable partner in the field—pulling, holding, and hauling when it matters most.