Choosing your Winch

Below are guidelines that should to be taken into consideration before deciding on which winch to buy.

In order to ensure the correct winch selection and correct method of use please take time to read the following information.

Failure to select the correct winch and incorrect operation can potentially reduce the life expectancy of your winch and result in reduced life span.

Winches used under certain conditions for example Salvage, recovery and off road conditions would require a much higher rated winch than that of a less frequently used winch used for a rolling load such as a small boat, caravan or car onto a trailer. Winches mounted on a ATVs, or trailers can reduce effort. The choice of winch size for each condition needs to be carefully considered. Your Winch need to be powerful enough to pull your load but also the added resistance caused by obstacles such as gradients, mud, rock, water, snow or sand.

For vehicle pulling, 1.5 times the gross weight of the vehicle gives rough idea of the capacity required to pull out of a recovery position. Speed and Load vary according to the amount of cable on the drum, the 1st layer of cable produces the slowest speed and the maximum load. Hence vehicle winches are rated at first layer capabilities.

If the winch is to be used on a regular basis a freewheel will speed up cable lead out, without this a cable cannot be pulled out by hand. A roller fairlead will highly reduce cable damage enabling an even distribution from the drum.

Remote control makes useage more easily and can provide a more safe working condition.

Pulley blocks give mechanical advantage. One placed in the cable doubles the rated capacity, and two triple. However they are not ideal to try and make a small winch perform a large job.

D shackles also add to the capability of your winch. These combined with tree savers can be useful in a difficult pulling operation. But always make sure when using winches that the basic safety guidelines are followed, it is also recommended that when winching safety gloves are used.

This information is a guideline only. It is the responsibility of the winch user to ensure they have adequate knowledge and knowhow to operate the winch safely.

If you need further information please contact us at admin@winch-winches.com

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