How to Clean, Lubricate and Inspect Your Wire Grips

To keep your wire grips in good working condition, it’s important that you properly clean, lubricate and inspect your wire grips on a regular basis. This will help prevent issues and potential accidents out in the field.

Follow the procedures below to ensure your grips are properly cared for.

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Cleaning and Lubrication

• Step 1: Clean the surfaces of the grip jaws using a cloth or round wire brush.
• Step 2: Spray all joints and moving parts, including the jaws, with degreaser. Then, use a round wire brush to remove any dirt from the jaws.
• Step 3: Once clean, wipe the wire grips until they are dry. If grips are still dirty, repeat steps as needed.
• Step 4: Lubricate all joints and any moving parts. The surfaces of the grip jaws should not be lubricated.

Wire Grip Inspection

To inspect the wire grip:

• Step 1: Carefully examine the jaws for clogged, damaged, or missing teeth.
• Step 2: Check that the jaws and other parts of the grip are aligned to ensure that there is no distortion.
• Step 3: Open and close the grip to ensure it completely and smoothly opens and closes.
• Step 4: Finally, check all other parts and joints for any distortion and/or wear.

During the inspection, if you find that the grip is bent or distorted, it should be thrown away and replaced. It should NOT be repaired. 

Columbus McKinnon offers a large selection of hoist and rigging products designed for utility transportation and distribution applications. Learn more.