MTFCA Forum

I use a small Triton aluminum open trailer to tow my 1915 runabout. I am interested in getting a 12v winch to make loading my T onto the trailer easier. I am looking for suggestion / recommendations.
Thanks

I use a Harbor Freight winch, intended for ATV's, plenty of power to load your beauty.

Hello Wayne

Harbor Freight 2500 pound 12VDC
electric winch w/ wireless remote

@ https://www.harborfreight.com/automotiv ... 56258.html

Sometimes they go on sale ….


FJ

Hello Wayne,

I am using a Harbor Freight winch as well, although mine is a larger size.

REMEMBER: the weight rating on the winch is with a 2 part line set up. This means you have to use a snatch block. 2 part means the cable comes off the winch to the item being winched, though a device with a cable sheave inside it (snatch block or sheave block) and back to the winch area. The hook end of the cable can be secured to anything near the winch. The effect of doing this is to double the line pull of the winch. A 2500 lb rated winch will barely make 1250 lb of pull with a full drum of cable and on one part (straight from the winch to the car or load) of cable. When you double back on the cable, you double your pulling capacity, but you cut your overall winching speed in half. Also, keep in mind low cost winches have a duty cycle to protect them from overheating. Using a 2 part reduces the strain on the motor thus causing less heat and giving a longer duty cycle.

Harbor Freight uses that trick in advertising to make consumers think they are getting more than they really are. It is deceptive but is also accurate IF you know how to achieve the rated capacity. They do the same thing with their 9000watt generator. A buyer will think he's getting a huge generator for a great price until you read the fine print: 9000 watts produced by the engine to start up but only some 7000 watts generated output power when running.

Also, purchase a web strap to use around the FRAME. Pulling on an axle may have enough weight to bend or displace an axle, pull the wishbone out of it's socket, or screw up the front end wheel alignment. It is safer to go around the frame/spring near the crank handle in the front. You will have to find a good secure spot on or near the frame in the rear if you winch from the rear. I am unaware of any damage having been done to the rear axle when using it as a winch point. BUT, do you want to take a chance?

Harbor Freight sells a lightweight small snatch block in the same area as the winches are shelved. I believe you will need a shackle to connect a strap to that snatch block.

Good Luck

I use a Harbor Freight 3500 lb winch directly. I prefer the cable control (have both) because of the lag time on the remote controls. I attach the winch using a axle strap around the axle as close to the right spindle as I can get. I do not pull from the center for fear of bending the axle. The 3500 handles a T quite easily. I try to load /unload where there is a very slight downslope. You don't want much but a little will make things easier.

My neighbor that boughs my trailer quite a bit bought me a 12000 lb. HB winch so he would not have to come-a-long cars on the trailer. Just a couple of notes on the HB winch, the power cables corroded off @ the ends and the overload breakers corroded @ the contacts. This was not due to battery corrosion because I don't leave the battery on the trailer when not in use. The price of the smaller units is inviting but keep in mind if something happens and the rear wheels will not turn or you need to haul something larger they may not do the job. I'm not poo pooing HB I have been buying tools and ect. since 1977 when they where a small where house in California the advertised in small trade news papers. ( I still have & use some of those tools)
Craig.

I have had good service from Warn winches. They have several to choose from.

I have a small Warn winch. It works well. Got it for a good price at Summit Racing.

John

Again HF winch with cordless remote. I mounted mine on the driver's side of the trailer so I'm not pulling from the middle of the axle. Also the winch then pulls straight. I also use a snatch block to help the load.
With the cordless I can walk around watching all angles or jump in and ride it up.
I have a hook and an extra battery in the trailer for the remote and battery.

I won’t comment on winch brands. I will describe my installation. I connected the winch to a trailer coupler(1-7/8”) and then SECURELY installed a ball on the front of the trailer deck. Added cables that can reach to the tow vehicle battery. The winch is then stored out the weather and away from thieves. Just my method.