Winches consist of a line and a rotating reel or drum. To use a winch, you attach the line to an object and then turn the drum, either by hand or by machine. This action winds the line around the drum and moves the object toward the winch. The line is usually a cable or rope, but it may also be a web, strap or wire.

Manual winches have a crank handle similar to those on fishing rods; power winches are either electric winches or those that operate by a pneumatic or hydraulic motor. Still other winches operate by gasoline engine.

When comparing winches for sale, there are a number of specs to consider:

1. Load capacity: Keep in mind that circumstances play a role in this figure. For instance, pulling at an angle or over a high friction surface will lower a winch's load capacity.

2. Line-type: Braided cable is common for winches, but so are many other materials. You'll also want to know line diameter and length.

3. Loaded line speed: This figure is usually measured in feet per minute.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Know what you need, then buy winches

A capstan winch has a spool cylinder and works well for horizontal applications. Worm gear winches are also usually for heavy horizontal use. Theater winches are made to withstand the vertical applications needed for stage. There are also a variety of hand and utility winches for an array of lighter jobs.

I recommend: WinchDepot carries a wide variety of winches nicely organized by category, including ATV winches and some industrial winches. J.R. Clancy has the theater scene handled. The Gilmore-Kramer Company is a good site to shop for industrial winches, including a variety of powered units, like electric winches or the hydraulic winch.

Look for a winch with special features

Some industrial winches feature pulley blocks that multiply the load capacity. Keep in mind, though, that the increase in pull corresponds with a proportionate decrease in speed. Other features to look for, especially for vertical applications, are reverse direction (if you need to lower and raise an object) and holding brakes.

I recommend: In addition to the winch manufactures and sources already mentioned, Northern Tool + Equipment has a selection of winches with and without brakes, as well as a heavyweight pulley block. Ramsey Winch is another great place to look around. They have a wide variety of winches for sale.

Install and maintain your winch

Industrial and heavy duty winches come in a wide variety of styles and capabilities for marine, industrial, auto, oilfield and many other types of applications. This means installation and maintenance also vary widely.

I recommend: Pay attention to literature from winch manufacturers, especially ratings that spell out things like load capacity. Also, make sure to get a clear estimate of the load capacity. For automotive applications, consider investing in this Safety On/Off Switch from Ramsey to prevent damage to the winch or your car. If you need to repair the winch on your trailer, check out these repair kits and parts at The Trailer Parts Depot.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  To maintain constant tension on the winch line without any fuss, get a winch that has a stripper or cleat.