How to Pick Out Boat Winch for 17 Foot Bay Boat

Published 06/28/2016

Question:

I have a 17` bay boat with a 90 hp motor what size winch would I need

asked by: Jerry G

Expert Reply:

Generally when picking out a winch for a boat trailer the ratio is 2 to 1 meaning you would need a winch with roughly half the capacity as the weight of the boat. With good rollers and a short winching distance the ratio increases to 3 to 1, but with long winching distances and wooden bunks like what you currently have the ratio is 1 to 1.

The Dutton-Lainson Hand Winch # DL14725 should work well for you. It has a 2,000 lb capacity and has a small enough mounting plate that it should fit your trailer well.

expert reply by: Jameson C