Difference Between Curt 2-Speed Boat Trailer Winch and Fulton High-Performance 2-Speed Trailer Winch

Updated 06/18/2025 | Published 06/12/2025

Question:

What is the difference between the Curt C45Zj and the Fulton Trailer Winch - F142430? Are both winches designed to be used with steel cables, or can they be used with nylon straps also?

asked by: Rich

Expert Reply:

Hey Rich! The Fulton High-Performance 2-Speed Trailer Winch # F142430 can only be used with a cable. The Curt # C45ZJ can be used with a cable or a strap. The Fulton also includes a handbrake. Outside of that they are pretty similar in terms of capacity, hub size, gear ratio, and warranty. The Fulton winch comes with the Z-Max 600 zinc finish as well so it will hold up longer compared to the Curt.

What are you planning to use the winch for?

expert reply by: Robin H

Fulton High-Performance 2-Speed Trailer Winch
(click to enlarge)

Rich

6/17/2025

Replacement boat trailer winch.

Robin H.

6/17/2025

@Rich then if you're fine with a cable I would definitely choose the Fulton. If you need a cable you can use the # FWC7500100.

Rich

6/17/2025

@RobinH. Why would you recommend the Fulton, @ almost twice the price of the Curt, if the real only difference is that the fact Fulton has a hand break, and can ONLY use a cable?

Robin H.

6/18/2025

@Rich higher quality, better finish, honestly wasn't paying attention to the price at the time just the part itself. If you're throwing it on an old boat trailer, or need the strap, or hardly use it there is no reason to take on the additional cost of the Fulton.