The loose track surface combined with the steepness of the grades made the going difficult for many of the vehicles. This enterprising member constructed his own electric winch using the starter motor from a DC3 aircraft. This required significant electrical work as well because a DC3 does not operate on a 12 volt electrical system. This particular winch drew very high amps during load which required the vehicle's motor to be kept running. To reduce the chance of the radiator overheating the vehicle's bonnet had to be kept raised. The estimated rating of this winch, on a bare drum was about 8,000 lbs.