Recommended Boat Winches For 1,000 lbs Boat

Updated 12/15/2025 | Published 11/08/2024

Question:

I have a 16 ft Key west boat ~ 1000 LBS on a trailer and my medical condition prevents me from cranking the one speed winch. Is there a replacement with a better gear ratio or an electric winch.

asked by: Fred S

Expert Reply:

Hello Fred.

Sorry to hear you have some health issues that are causing you to not be able to use your hand crank, but I love the fact you are finding a way to be able to get on the water! I would definitely be doing the same.

I am not sure what winch you currently have on the trailer now, and what the gear ratio is. For a hand crank option we do have the Fulton F2 Fully Enclosed, 2-Speed Trailer Winch with Adjustable Handle - 3,200 lbs # FW32000101. It's a 2 speed, and the different gear ratios are: High gear: 3.17:1 Low gear: 5.1:1.

For an electric winch, the Dutton-Lainson TW4000 StrongArm Electric Winch - Marine - 1,500 lbs # DL25200 is going to be your best option. The gear ratio is not the fastest at 324:1 but its the quickest electric one we have. I know how fast we want to get our boats loaded at the boat ramp, but sometimes we need to learn some patience in order to do the things we love.

I've also included the review videos for each product, this way you can get a good feel for them without having them in you hands.

Happy Boating, wear your life jacket, and be safe!

expert reply by: Kate F

Kate F.

12/15/2025

Hey Fred, how did things go with the Dutton-Lainson electric winch on your Key West boat trailer? Your update could make it easier for others looking for a simpler way to load their boats.