Recommended Boat Trailer Winch For 5,000 lb Boat

Updated 03/04/2021 | Published 03/01/2021

Question:

I have a Fulton T2605 Boat Trailer winch. Some of the gears are stripped and sometimes the strap will not stay tight when trailering. The winch is rated for 2600 lbs but the boat is easily over 5000lbs. Can you recommend a heavier duty winch which will fit the same hole pattern. I like the design of the Dutton-Lainson 3500 lb winch, but I'm not sure if it will fit on my trailer. Also the strap is also ripping with the weight of my boat. Would a cable be better ? Thanks

asked by: Wayne M

Expert Reply:

We can get you set up with a good replacement for your 2,600 lb Fulton winch, but let's start with what you asked in regards to the strap vs. the cable, with the latter being the better choice. A strap is fine but there is a risk of fraying or tearing, which doesn't exist with the use of a cable, so I do recommend a winch and cable set up.

In regards to the winch itself, winch capacity is at least 2-to-1, so if your boat weighs over 5,000 lbs, it is understandable why your 2,600 lb winch might be struggling. The best option that you'll be able to mount is a bit heavier-duty than 3,500 lbs; instead, I highly recommend another Fulton winch:

- 3,700 lb Fulton High-Performance 2-Speed Trailer Winch with Handbrake # F142430

This winch is similar to the DL, but I really like that added extra bit of capacity, as well as the fact this is a 2-speed winch so you can adjust for speed or power, as well as the fact the entire thing is zinc-coated for corrosion protection while the DL is not.

The only other thing you will need with this winch is a cable, the Fulton Galvanized Winch Cable with Hook - 50' x 7/32" # FWC7500100.

I've added links below to video reviews for you to check out as well if you'd like of the cable and the Fulton Trailer Winch # F142430.

expert reply by: Kyle S