What Benefit Is Higher Gear Ration For Dutton-Lainson Hand Winch

Question:

What is the benefit of the 17:1 gear? I will be using the winch to replace an OEM winch on a Tracker trailer for a 17 1/2 ft aluminum boat.

asked by: Gary L

Helpful Expert Reply:

The 17.3:1 ratio is normally used when you have a heavier load or boat you want to winch in. Sort of like the gears on a bike. When going up a hill you put the bike in a highwer gear so it is easier to reach the top. when on a flat surface you drop it into a lower gear so it gets more power with less effort.

The lower gear of 5.4:1 for the Dutton-Lainson Hand Winch, part # DL14825 will probably work great for most of the time with your aluminum boat, but if you are ever on a steep incline or boat ramp you may want to change to the higher gear ratio to make turing the handle easier. It is slower but requires less effort.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L