Winch Recommendation for Boat that Weighs 1,600 lbs

Published 04/17/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Dutton-Lainson Hand Winch - Single Speed - Freewheel - 20' Strap - 1,500 lbs

(51)

$93.99

Dutton-Lainson Hand Winch - TUFFPLATE Finish - 2 Speed - Direct Drive - 2,000 lbs

(481)

$116.71

Question:

My boat total weight is approx 1600lb. Should I go with the 1500 or 1900 DLX winch? There is a DL1300 winch on the boat now which seems weak when winching boat up steeper access. Also, will the 1500 or 1900lb winches mount in the same holes on the trailer as the 1300? Thanks for any info you can provide.

asked by: James 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.

Based on your current 1,300 lb winch struggling with a 1,600 lb boat I'd recommend matching the winch capacity with at least the weight of your boat. The 2,000 lb capacity Dutton Lainson part # DL14725 would be what I recommend. It will fit the same mount you have now, has 2 speeds, and since it has more than enough capacity will make winching in your boat much easier.

expert reply by: Jameson C