Abstract: A ground support system for wire rope of a hoist that includes a support, and at least two tension capstans aligned on the support. Each of the tension capstans is rotatable, and each of the tension capstans has at least one annular groove engageable with the wire rope. An inspection device is mounted to the support to inspect the wire rope. A take-up member rotatably is mounted on the support and has an inner receiving area for receiving the wire rope. A drive member is coupled to one of the tension capstans and to the take-up member. The drive member rotates the one of the tension capstans and the take-up member and applies a load to the wire rope.