Well it looks like all the major points have been covered but I'll add my 2 cents anyway.
1. I'll never use another winch with a steel cable. Several winches came with steel. I through the steel away and put synthetic on right away. I used to use them until they started to fray. The problem is they cut you easily, kink easily, and are much tougher to work with. Oh and when they snap they come trying to whip you in the face.
2 I don't remember if I got 3/16 or 1/4 but I've never broken a synthetic winch rope. I think they are a lot tougher than they say. I've also heard the "dyneema" synthetic is supposed to be pretty good....I keep a spare as cheap as they are anymore.
3. As previously stated check the fairlead. If its rough it will be hard on your rope. I bought one with the fat roller on bottom for picking up the snow plow. Haven't had any issues with the rope getting pinched. works great!
4. The biggest stressors on a rope is getting them wet and dirty, and when they are walked on or abused. That being said, I have done all those things to mine, I don't take care of them or keep them clean, and they've never failed me.....
Moral of the story, buy a synthetic rope
