Using a Winch to Secure A Spare Tire on a Trailer

Question:

What is the height from the mounting surface to the top of the drum, and from the video it seems like this winch might be difficult to release when under a load. Im trying to decide on a winch to hoist the spare tire under my trailer so its important that I can easily release the pawl when it is under tension like with an 80 lb tore hanging from it. Thanks.

asked by: Andrew

Expert Reply:

A winch could be used to lift your trailer's spare tire up into position but it is not a safe method of keeping it in place while underway. Winches are intended to lift a load but not to secure it. You could use the winch to lift the tire into place provided that you had another means to safely secure it to your trailer frame, such as chains or a spare tire mount.

Also, winches require at least a 12-inch straight line pull from the drum; the line or strap cannot go directly from the winch drum down to the spare tire. You would need to add a pulley between the winch and the spare tire. A better and safer option is a spare tire carrier; the link provided will let you see all options.

expert reply by: Adam R