Recommended Hand Winch Weight Rating for 6000 lb Boat on EZ Loader Trailer

Updated 05/24/2020 | Published 08/16/2012

Products Featured in This Question

Fulton High-Performance 2-Speed Trailer Winch with Handbrake - Cable Only - Zinc - 3,700 lbs

(268)

$377.45

Fulton Galvanized Winch Cable with Hook - 50' x 7/32" - 5,600 lbs

(67)

$51.84

Question:

F142430, how is the load rated, compared to the Dutton-Lainson 2 spd.,I think is rated at the 3rd wrap on the drum. Which would be the better choice, boat weighs at 6 k, is on a EZ loader trailer, and size of cable recomended . Regards

asked by: Fred M

Expert Reply:

The capacity of each hand winch is stated with one layer of rope, cable or strap around the drum. The Fulton # F142430 you mentioned has a 3700 lb capacity, which would diminish by 10 percent each time the cable is wrapped around the drum. With the cable wrapped around three times, the capacity would be about 3000 lbs.

This is our highest rated hand winch, I am not sure which Dutton-Lainson winch you are speaking of. When choosing between two winches, I would recommend always choosing the one with the higher weight rating. I would rather have some unneeded capacity in reserve than not enough.

Generally speaking, you want your winch capacity (with one layer of cable) to be at least half the weight of your boat. The longer the winching distance and the steeper the incline, the closer the winch capacity would need to be to the weight of the boat.

Typically, most boat ramps will allow you to back the trailer far enough into the water so that you are not winching more than a few feet. If this is the case, the Fulton winch you referenced is just about perfect for the weight of your boat.

The winch is recommended for use with 7/32 inch cable like part # FWC7500100.

I have linked you to our FAQ article about hand winches.

expert reply by: Mike L

Ray R.

5/19/2020

I have a 5 Star tandem axle roller trailer for a 23' Grady Seafarer weighted at 3700 lbs and 6,000 lbs fully loaded. I want to replace the 25' cable on the winch but not sure what guage/width cable I should purchase. Can you help given the above information? Thank you

Chris R.

5/22/2020

Can you tell me what model winch you're using? Most winches have a max cable width or length that can be used, so I want to make sure my recommendation is compatible.

Ray R.

5/24/2020

Chris, Thanks so much for helping with advice. My boat is two hours away right now and I'll be driving to it this week and will check on the winch as per your recommendation. It has the original cable, 23 feet in length. I will try to contact you again for advice when I take a closer look. Thanks and happy Memorial Day weekend.