What Type of Battery is Needed for Powering Trailer Winch and Way to Charge it

Updated 03/29/2016 | Published 03/27/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Bulldog Winch Trailer Winch - Synthetic Rope - Hawse Fairlead - 4,400 lbs

(57)

$485.72

Bulldog Winch Rear Wiring Kit - Quick Connect to Terminal End - 2 Gauge - 24' Long

(22)

$347.57

Question:

I am considering the BDW15020 winch or one with similar capacity for my flatbed trailer. The winch I have full specs for lists 240 peak amps, a line speed of 6.9ft/min and has a 43foot cable. Im assuming Id need to use AT LEAST a 25AHr battery based on 240 peak amps, a line speed of 6.9ft/min and 43foot of line = 0.104hr of use per pull? I see that some small powersports batteries example - the Duracell AFM model DTX30LA shown at fall in this range at around 26AHr and 400CCA. Can I use a small battery of this type - or do I need to use a full-size automotive battery? What options do I have for wiring this battery into my trailers 7-pin to make sure it stays charged?

asked by: Jason S

Expert Reply:

You would want to go with a deep cell battery. Having a battery larger than you would need would be the way to go as having a battery that is similarly rated as the draw of the winch will drain it quickly. We don't carry any deep cell batteries but you should have no problem tracking one down.

If you are wanting to put a larger deep cell battery in your trailer to power your winch and recharge it from the battery on the tow vehicle you will need to wire it directly with the Trailer Wiring Kit, # BDW20207, depending on what size winch you are using. This will be about the only way you will be able to supply enough amperage to your trailer battery to keep it charged.

expert reply by: Jameson C