Leaking Gearmatic 8A on my 420c

[maplebones]

The hydraulic line for the clutch on this unit goes through the center of the right side cover. The line makes a connection at that point with the turning assembly, and to seal the connection there is a small rubber fitting. It's a disc about 1/2 inch diameter that looks like a brake cylinder cup, except that there is a 1/4 inch hole in the center for the line to go through. Does anyone know where I might find a replacement? It seems that I remember reading about someone who had parts for these older winches.

I'd also like to replace the cable on this winch. The old one is 1/2 inch which seems excessive for a 420. I'm thinking of going to 7/16 or 3/8 which would be easier for an old man like myself to drag uphill. Does anyone have any thoughts on this ?

[boler76]

As for parts I have no advice, but the cable I use on my crawler winch is 3/8" and it works fine, even made up some 3/8" chokers and they work fine also.

[Lavoy]

I think I have some of the rotator cups on hand, normally try to.
The Gearmatics will hold 3/8", 1/2", or 5/8" cable.
Lavoy

[Ray III]

I think cable size would depend on what you're doing with it, if it's just dragging tree trunks around then 3/8" is fine. If I had a winch on mine I would want to be able to brace the machine against something and pull out big rocks and other stubborn stuff, and I wouldn't be comfortable sitting in the line of fire with less than 1/2" wire rope.

[Paul Buhler]

Just another opinion.
I like 1/2" cable on this small machine; I run two standard chokers with hooks (rather than keyholes) and a grab hook behind the knot giving me the ability to pull three individual stems, or to wrap around a big tree to help back up a steep hill. With the bigger cable, I feel confident when I have to pull out a stuck car or self-assist. A smaller cable may not have the strength needed in these situations, and a broken cable is costly, frustrating and potentially dangerous.
That being said, if you use your machine more gently, a smaller cable is cheaper, lighter, and now has readily available sliders and chokers to match ( ie: Farmi winch accessories)

Hope this is useful. Paul