Recommended Winch to Load 4,000 lb Tractor onto Flat Bed Trailer

Updated 08/08/2013 | Published 08/06/2013

Products Featured in This Question

Superwinch LT2000 ATV Winch - Wire Rope - Roller Fairlead - 2,000 lbs

(80)

$144.41

Bulldog Pulley Block for Powersports

(12)

$25.14

Question:

I have a 56 ford tractor, all fluids and full of gasoline it weighs in at 4,000 lbs. I need to load on a flatbed truck. The height of the flatbed is 40inch from the ground and I have heavy duty ramps that are 8foot long and rated at 5,000 lbs. What winch do I require?

asked by: Gregg H

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Superwinch # 1120210 LT2000 you referenced would be perfect for your needs.

According to my calculations, the ramps you are using have a bit more than a 40 percent grade. According to the table shown in the FAQ article I have linked you to, the Superwinch # 1120210 you referenced is capable of pulling about 4300 lbs of rolling load like your tractor up a 40 degree ramp. Since you are pretty close to the max capacity of the winch, I would recommend mounting your winch to the trailer slightly offset and using a pulley block like part # BDW20004 to load the tractor. Instead of attaching the hook from the winch directly to the load, you attach the pulley block and run the winch line through it. The other end of the line can attach to a stationary hook like part # EM59505 mounted to the trailer. Using a pulley block would prevent the winch from working so near its capacity, and would likely extend its lifespan.

If you look at the diagram I provided, you can see how to set up the trailer. I have also linked you to an FAQ article about electric winches that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L