How do you install a new winch strap on to an existing winch?

This is a fairly easy job. First you will have to pull the old strap off. Do this by releasing the winch lock, and pulling the strap off the spool all the way to the end. Be careful while you do this, as the winch handle will rotate while the spool is unloading. When you're down to the end of the old strap, remove the cross bolt securing it to the winch spool. Often times this bolt will need to be replaced due to rust or salt corrosion. Replace if needed. At this point, you need to measure the width of your old strap as well as the length. Your new strap should be of the same size. To install the new strap slide cross bolt through hole in side of spool, through the sewn-in loop in strap, out through hole in opposite side of spool. Don't forget to re-install nut on end of the bolt. While holding tension on the strap, begin to winch it onto the spool turning the handle in a clockwise direction. Once you have a couple of rounds winched on, flip your lock back on and continue winching while holding tension on strap. When all the strap is wound onto spool, slide hook in the bow eye of the boat and winch a few more turns until tight. Hope this helps.