How to Select Trailer Winches
A trailer winch uses an engine and system of pulleys and cables to provide mechanical advantage when hauling heavy items and gear. Trailer winches are available with various lengths of cable and in several sizes, all criteria for selecting the proper winch for your needs. A winch works best with a single coil of cable around the spool when extended and ready for pulling, something else to keep in mind when selecting the trailer winch.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Determine the weight of your gear that the winch will pull onto the trailer. An example would be if you wish to use the winch for a boat. Get the boat's weight, and then calculate and add the weight of the fuel tanks, engine and other gear on the boat. Select a winch with the appropriate weight rating for your needs.
-
2
Determine the average length and distance your gear and equipment will need to be pulled when you attach the winch cable. Select the winch with the right cable length for your needs. If you err, err on the long side, as it is better to have too much cable than too little.
-
-
3
Select a winch that is suitable for your climate or environment. If you plan to use the trailer winch in wet or muddy conditions, find an all-conditions winch. If you will have the winch contained in an enclosed trailer, you can save money by selecting a winch for indoor use.
-
1
