Can a Winch Be Powered From a Truck Battery Using Battery Cables

Updated 09/26/2022 | Published 09/24/2022

Question:

Im going to add a trailer winch that Ill only use a few times a year. Can I wire it for power with a 15-20 lead with clamps to the truck battery? This would run outside the truck only when using the winch. I do not want to wire to the truck or add a battery to the trailer. What gauge wire for a 5000lb winch? Thanks.

asked by: Tom

Expert Reply:

Yes, you can wire your winch with clamps to the truck battery. 2 gauge wire should be sufficient for a 5,000 lb. winch. If you wanted to be sure, you can look in the owners manual to verify the wire gauge needed for your particular winch.

You can use something like the Bulldog Winch Booster Cable Set # BDW20233. You would just likely need to cut off one end and wire it to your winch.

expert reply by: Scott S