Winches
Winches for 4WDs, boat trailers, ATVs and the workshop. Most are 12V electric winches with steel cable or synthetic rope and a wireless remote.
There are also hand winches, electric hoists, a truck crane and accessories such as covers, dampers, solenoids and replacement rope.
What winch rating do I need?
A common rule of thumb is a rated pull of at least 1.5 times the loaded weight of what you are pulling.
Ratings here start at 3000lb (1360kg) for ATVs and small boats, then 4500lb, 5000lb and 6000lb, up to 12000lb and 14500lb for heavier 4WDs.
| Rating | Good for | Watch for |
|---|---|---|
| 3000lb | ATVs, small boat trailers | Mounting points on the ATV |
| 4500–6000lb | UTVs, boats, light trailers | Rope length |
| 12000–14500lb | 4WD recovery | Bar or mounting plate fit |
| Hand winch | Trailers without power | Crank effort |
Is synthetic rope better than steel cable?
Synthetic rope is lighter and easier to handle, while steel cable copes better with rough edges and heat.
Many ratings come in both versions. Replacement 5.5mm x 13m synthetic rope is available for smaller winches. Wear gloves when handling steel cable and keep a few wraps on the drum.
Do the winches come with a remote?
Most electric winches in the range list a wireless remote.
A twin set of 12V wireless handsets is sold separately if you want a spare or are upgrading an older winch.
What accessories should I add?
Add a damper blanket for recovery work and a cover to keep dust and water out.
The cover fits 8000–17000lb winches. A 500A solenoid relay suits 9500–17000lb units, and one bundle includes a mounting plate.
Which winch suits lifting in a shed?
For lifting rather than pulling, use an electric hoist or a hoist frame.
Hoists are rated from 125/250kg to 500/1000kg, and the hoist frame is rated to 600kg.
What do I need for a boat trailer winch?
A bow winch stand carries the winch and support at the front of the trailer.
Pair it with the 1134kg hand winch, or a 12V electric winch if you launch often and want less cranking.
Can I pay it off?
Yes. Pay with Afterpay or Zip, or check out with PayPal. A $181.25 4500lb electric winch is four fortnightly Afterpay payments of $45.31.
Pair it with
- Others – recovery tracks and roof racks
- Lights – lighting for night recoveries
- Air Compressor – reinflate tyres after a recovery
