To avoid the open problems of the leading wheel and get a more rational structure, the paper uses PRO / E and the finite element software to analyze the leading wheel of JKM-3.25/4 multi-rope friction hoist. The results show that in the leading wheel the rib plates between the channel steel and wheel hub are removed or added the same ones will have little effect on the overall force situation, and only affect the stress of the weld bead. To solve the problem of open weld of rib plates, can consider the rib plates to be removed. When the radial angle between support wheel and drum is bigger than 6°, the overall force of the leading wheel is affected seriously. But when the radial angle is 5°, the amplitude of stress fluctuation is the minimum, which can improve the leading wheel working conditions and increase the service life of the leading wheel. Therefore the suggestion is to take the radial angle of 5° when to design the new multi-rope hoist. Study conclusions provide the theoretical supports for the leading wheel of multi-rope friction design and technical renovation.