Determining Boat Capacity of Dutton-Lainson StrongArm Electric Winch # DL25215

Updated 02/20/2018 | Published 02/19/2018

Question:

I recsently bought the strongarm tw9000 electric winch. It comes with a 4800 lb break strength strap. My boat weighs 8500 lbs. So i assume i should change the strap. Im confused about all the wll and break strength. Can you please recomend a 2 inch strap that can handle my boat? Not a very steep boat ramp and can get the boat a foot from the trailer hook.

asked by: Scott K

Expert Reply:

The 4,800 pound break strength strap that was included with your Dutton-Lainson StrongArm Electric Winch # DL25215 actually should not need to be replaced. The included strap, like the winch itself, features a working load capacity of 3,000 pounds but can handle a boat of up to 9,000 pounds. If your trailer is equipped with high-quality rollers and is typically used on ramps where the boat will essentially float most of the way onto the trailer, a 3:1 ratio can be used for winches. Which is why a 3,000 pound winch like this one can be used for boats of up to 9,000 pounds.

As long as this describes your trailer and loading application, both the winch and included strap are properly rated and do not need to be replaced. If your trailer has wooden bunks or more commonly used on ramps where the boat needs to be winched most of the way onto the trailer, the ratio might creep down closer to 1:1, in which case a higher capacity winch will be needed.

If this is the case, please let me know and I will be happy to recommend a better option. I have also attached a great article on winches that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R