How to Buy a Winch

For serious off-road adventurers, having a winch on your truck or SUV is a good idea. A winch comes in handy for those times when your vehicle gets stuck or just can't make it up a really steep grade. Tying a winch rope or cable around a big rock or a tree and winching your truck over a rough spot will save time and get you back to off-road fun.

Instructions

1. Determine how much winch you need. Choose too small of a winch and you may burn out the electrical supply in your four-by-four. To calculate the minimum winch capacity that you will need, take the gross vehicle weight and multiply it by 1.5. Consider getting a bigger than necessary winch for those unexpected times like deep mud.

2. Decide how much to spend. Winches that can pull a heavy load will be more expensive because of their size and weight. The lower-load capacity winches might be cheaper, but they won't last as long. It all depends on how much load you need pulled

3. Locate a service center. Make sure you know where to take your winch if it breaks down. The service center will have will also have the parts for you to repair your winch, if you decide to fix it yourself.

4. Find a winch retailer. Call your local SUV and truck dealerships or auto supply stores and ask if they sell winches or know a good winch retailer. Your local off-road clubs will also be able to give advice on winches and the best places to buy them.

5. Arrange to have your winch installed. Find a reliable mechanic who knows how to install the winch and understands your vehicle's electrical system. Have them check your alternator, and consider upgrading to a high-output alternator. Check the battery and make sure it can keep a good charge and handle the extra electrical usage required by the winch.