Can a Winch Cable Be Replaced with a Hand Winch Strap On a 2006 Aluminum Loadrite Trailer

Question:

I have a 2006 Aluminum Laodrite Trailer reated at 5200lbs carrying a boat the weighs aprox 4500 with gas and gear. I currently have a hand winch utilizing a cable and would like to convert to a winch strap. Do I have to replace the winch or can I convert existing wiinch? Also what load rating strap do I need an winch if changout is required?

asked by: Ed D

Expert Reply:

With a 5,200 pound rated trailer and a 4500 pound boat you are getting to the upper end of the capacity rating for winches with a strap. That is most likely why your winch has a cable installed on it.

Some winches are set up so that a cable or a strap with hook can be used. If a strap, item # DL24251, can be used on your winch there will be holes in the cable drum sides, directly across from each other, to put a bolt through that the strap attaches to. If your drum is not set up in this way a new hand winch would be required.

The Dutton-Lainson Trailer Winch. # DL15440, is the highest rated hand winch I have available, that accepts a hand winch strap. This winch will have the capacity needed to load your boat as long as the trailer is backed into the water sufficiently. If the boats full weight is on the trailer and needs to be moved this winch will not have the capacity to move the boat.

Along with this winch you will need the hand winch strap with safety hook, # DL24249.

expert reply by: Robert G