Which Winch Strap is Best for a 2007 Ranger Z20 Commanche Boat Trailer

Updated 05/24/2011 | Published 05/23/2011

Products Featured in This Question

Fulton Heavy-Duty Winch Strap with Hook - 20' x 2" - 4,000 lbs

(157)

$23.69

Laclede 27" Long Trailer Safety Chain w/ 7/16" Hook - 1,250 lbs Weight Capacity - Qty 1

(335)

$13.40

Hand Winch Strap with Safety Hook, 2" Wide x 20' Long - Extra Heavy Duty - 4,800 lbs.

(92)

$57.33

Question:

Hi, my winch strap broke last night, I had to tie it in knots to drive home...I think its a fulton, but its for a 2007 Ranger Z20 Commanche, which I think weighs around 3,800 lbs. The strap currently on there, has a 2nd safety catch on it, but I cant find a replacement strap with the safety catch. also, curious if the heavy duty/poly strap is better than this seat belt like material..Ive seen too many of those break. Thanks!

asked by: John S

Expert Reply:

We have several safety straps for trailer winches, but I have not ran into the style with a 2nd safety catch. On my boat trailer I use the winch strap to bring the boat to the appropriate spot on the trailer and then have an additional short length of safety chain, with a hook, item # 2118-605-04, that is bolted to the winch mounting post, for an extra measure of safety, just in case the nylon strap breaks. You will need a hook that will fit in the bow eye with the winch strap hook in place.

As far as durability, the winch strap, either style, is exposed to the elements which, especially the sun, degrades the material over time. It is inevitable that eventually there will be a failure. Where you store your boat and whether the strap is exposed will determine the life of the strap. The heavy duty poly strap, item # FWS20HD0200, may last longer if the weight capacity is higher, but a nylon strap, item # DL24251, with higher capacity would most likely perform just as well as a poly strap of the same capacity.

expert reply by: Robert G