Winch Strap Suggestions to Replace a Wire Rope on a Boat Winch

Updated 03/05/2012 | Published 02/29/2012

Question:

Im looking to replace a worn out rope with a strap for the winch on my ezloader sprinter trailer. The trailer is used for a 12 ft aluminum boat. What length of strap would i need to ensure the spool would be full? Also any suggestions on the lb rating? Thanks!

asked by: Potkin

Expert Reply:

First you are going to need to determine if your particular winch can be used with a strap instead of a cable. Some winches will accept either but other winches must be used with one or the other. Contact your winch manufacturer to determine if your model can be used with a strap.

A 12 foot aluminum boat that is floating is not going to be too heavy and the length that you need is really going to depend on where you are launching and retrieving the boat, how far you back into the water with the trailer, and factors such as these.

You will want a strap to be at least 150 percent of the winch rating. For example, a winch rated at 2,000 pounds would require a strap rated for 3,000 pounds. I have included a link to our winch FAQ article. There is a section that covers winches for boat trailers.

expert reply by: Michael H