Replacing my Trailer Winch

[BrianNeil]

I would like to replace my Trailer Winch as there some rust spots on the winch itself as well as the steel hook, and the strap is also starting to fray. How do I determine the type of winch to use ? Is this just based on boat weight/size ? I have an 1800xr with a 125 o/b. Is there a specific weight I would need the winch to exceed for safety ?

[shrew]

Does the winch you have now have a capacity stamped on it?

Defender.com Search Results: trailer winch

[BrianNeil]

I did check that but I dont see anything confirming it. I attached the one pic I have that incorporates the trailer winch, but not sure this will help.

[mmwjr]

Yes they are rated on capacity. Pick one that is rated above the boat and gear weight including fuel.

[BrianNeil]

I assumed that to be the case. I guess I am not sure how or where to confirm the weight of my boat, gear and engine/fuel.

[chrisnwmg]

I have a similar setup with an I/B. Let me look tonight and I will post tomorrow

[Homegrown]

Google your boat and you will find the weight on a review. For example, my 2100SD says 4000 lb in a write up at USBoats. Do the same to check your engine weight. It's going to be a few hundred (my 5.0 MPI V8 is 900 lb), but included as inboard motor.

My fuel capacity is 55g which is 8 lb per gal, so figure another 450 lb. Gear includes skis, life jackets, fishing rods, etc which is unlikely to be much on a smaller boat (<25 ft). Maybe 100 lb of gear total.
So my winch needs to be rated to 5000 or more.

I hope this helps.

[mmwjr]

No capacity label at the helm?

The winches are ussually 3500 and under and 4000 to 6000 and them big ones.

The mid range should work fine.

[shrew]

Does it really need to exceed the GW of the vessel? You're not dead-lifting the boat like a crane. Most of the weight is either floating or sitting on the rollers/bunks.

[Homegrown]

You are right. When he was asking about calculating weight of the boat I took it one step too far.

However, with the 10'000 lb winch strap I added...maybe hanging from the bow would be an interesting way to store the boat!

[mmwjr]

Nope not dead lifting the boat but several things to consider. Roller or bunk trailer, more resistance with the bunk. Towing puts a dynamic load on the winch which should be shared with rear tie down straps.

I think if look at how they are rated it based on GW but not equal to it.

[chrisnwmg]

I can't get the pictures to upload, I have a 1900sr with Inboard and the same trailer. Winch is: Max line pull 1800lbs 1st layer 900lbs full drum. Hope this helps.