How to Fix Winch Cable

[BFD8]

My winch cable broke while I was plowing.  I figure I will strip off about 5 feet, tape it, cut it off....then what?  From what I see it looks like U clamps are my only way to go unless I buy a tool to crimp with....haven't looked too far into it yet which is why I'm posting here, I'm sure you guys have done this before. 
Also, since I'm at work and plan to go to the hardware store on my way home, do you know what size my cable probably is.  I've never changed it...I'm fairly certain it's the one that came on the machine......warn winch on '03 sportsman.  I'll get what I think is right and return it if I'm wrong but I could save a day by getting the right stuff today. 
For now I have it tied and duct taped!!!  Don't laugh, it works.   

[BFD8]

Got some 3/16" U clamps...hope that's right.......I didn't really want to use them....they had the sleeves (I'll call them sleeves for lack of a better term) that you crimp with a special tool or with a hammer but they say not for use in high load situations.  ???? 

[himiler]

Got some 3/16" U clamps...hope that's right.......I didn't really want to use them....they had the sleeves (I'll call them sleeves for lack of a better term) that you crimp with a special tool or with a hammer but they say not for use in high load situations.  ???? 

  The local Home  DEpot has a 3/16 flat clamp,it's 2 pieces flat steel with 2 grooves for cable,and 2 screw to tighten down,they also have a hoop for the cable with 2 cable ubolt works great!

[BFD8]

  The local Home  DEpot has a 3/16 flat clamp,it's 2 pieces flat steel with 2 grooves for cable,and 2 screw to tighten down,they also have a hoop for the cable with 2 cable ubolt works great!

Thanks.

[mixerdriver]

that is the reason i use the winch rope i just tie a knot  on the hook an back to plowing i go

[GreenToysRider]

A bit late but for maybe future reference??

TSC or most hardware stores sell "ferroules"  (aluminum piece thats side by side, just slide it in one side, make a loop back thru the other and smack it flat with a hammer).

Way stronger than a U clamp (as that connection will be your weak point) + it lays flat so it doesn't really get bound up if you suck the cable in too far
 They were .40 a piece for a 3/16 sized one which fit the Warn cable on his '08 500 Sportsman. Fixed in 2 minutes with the trusty BFH!