Are you searching for the Best Winch for Car Trailer? Whether you are a new or experienced driver, investing in the right Winch can make hauling a trailer easier. With so many varieties of winches on the market, choosing one that enables safe and efficient loading and unloading while meeting all your needs is essential.
A quality winch can save time and energy while ensuring each task is completed safely. If you’re seeking out the best Winch available for a car trailer, this article will provide all the information needed to make an informed decision before purchasing one. Read on as we discuss everything from the types of winches features they offer and much more.
Top 15 Best Winch for Car Trailers
*Note: Score is based on our AI score (Editor’s choice and rating)
1/Smittybilt X2O GEN2 10K Waterproof Wireless Winch
Look no further than the Smittybilt X2O GEN2 10K Waterproof Wireless Winch! Outstanding performance is just the beginning of this product. It is packed with innovation and functionality and is suitable for the toughest winching environment.
The Smittybilt Winch has a 6.6 HP Amphibious motor and a 3-Stage Planetary Gear System, giving you the power you need for offroading. It also has a Dynamic Braking System, Stainless Steel Hardware, and two solenoid mounting options, letting you pick the setup that best suits your needs. You can also operate the Winch with the wireless remote or manually, making it easy to use.
Designed to help you take on any terrain, the Smittybilt X2O GEN2 10K Waterproof Wireless Winch is your go-to solution. Its overall dimensions are 22.3 “L x 5.4″ W x 9.4” H, and its net weight is 67 lbs. Purchase of the Smittybilt X2O Gen2 10K Waterproof Winch includes a wired remote, hawse fairlead with forged hook, rope sleeve, and all the power cables you need to hook up to your vehicle.
2/VEVOR Electric 13000lb Load Capacity Winch Compatible
Are you looking for a piece of equipment that is reliable, durable, and powerful? Look no further; the VEVOR Electric 13000lb Load Capacity Winch is here to save the day! Durable and sturdy, this truck winch stands out for its excellent quality, abrasion-resistant cast-aluminum tie plate, andtrengthened center-mounted control pack.
To put your mind at ease, this Winch also comes with a Waterproof IP67 rating and a state-of-the-art 500AMP solenoid valve.
The powerful 12v, 4.6kw motor is connected to a 3-stage planetary gear train system with revised gear ratios for increased pulling power and lightning-fast line speed.
Plus, you can operate the ATV winch in a precarious situation away from the vehicle from up to 50 feet away with a wireless remote control.
3/Rock-Hulk 13500 lb Waterproof Synthetic Red Rope
You are introducing the Rock-Hulk 13500 lb Waterproof Synthetic Red Rope – your go-to for all your heavy-duty hauling needs! With a special design engineered for optimal performance with ATVs, UYVs, cars, boats, trucks, jeeps, and modified vehicles, you can rest assured that your heavy-duty duties will be handled.
The rope is completely waterproof and soundproof, plus it comes with a double waterproof capstan cover and state-of-the-art 500AMP solenoid to ensure your cargo is secure.
There’s also a 7.2HP 12V series wound motor with a three-stage planetary gear system, free spooling clutch, and an aluminum guidance cable for maximum impact and pulls. And, to top that off, it fits most mounting plates at 20.9″ x 6.3″ x 8.58″, so you know this powerful rope can handle any load!
4/Smittybilt XRC GEN2 9.5K Waterproof Winch
Are you an outdoorsman who loves the thrill of challenging terrains? Then the Smittybilt XRC GEN2 9.5K Waterproof Winch is the perfect accessory for you!
Engineered to provide superior power and reliability, this Winch is perfect for any offroading adventure. It’s lightweight yet offers an impressive 9,500-pound weight capacity, ensuring you can confidently take on tougher challenges.
Completely waterproof, the Winch has a state-of-the-art 500AMP solenoid and a 93.5″ diameter wire rope for greater control on your journeys.
The Winch’s 6.6hp motor is designed to provide powerful and consistent hauling, and the 3-stage planetary gear train ensures smooth and reliable operation. And with all required wiring included in your purchase, you can ensure installation is as easy as possible.
5/WARN 92000 Vehicle Mounted 2000 Series 12V DC Electric Utility Winch
Get the most out of your vehicle with the WARN 92000 Vehicle Mounted 2000 Series 12V DC Electric Utility Winch! Whether you’re hauling firewood, moving logs around the job site, or just looking for a more efficient way to move material, this versatile Winch has everything you need. We’ve packed this little guy full of awesome features to ensure maximum power and performance without sacrificing size. Equipped with a high-efficiency 1.6 horsepower permanent magnet DC motor and a durable differential planetary gear train, this little Winch will help you get the job done quicker and easier. And to make things even better, its 12-volt power makes it completely portable so that you can take it anywhere. It also includes 35 feet of 3/16″ (10.7m of 4.7mm) wire rope with hook and clasp, a corded remote for easy operation from afar, and a hawse fairlead for unhindered operation. Get the WARN 92000 Vehicle Mounted 2000 Series 12V DC Electric Utility Winch and make every job easier, more efficient, and better for you!
6/ZESUPER 4500 lb Winch Waterproof IP67 Electric Winch
Introducing the ZESUPER 4500 lb Winch Waterproof IP67 Electric Winch– the Winch you can count on to take your outdoor adventures to a new level. This Winch is made with improved material for extra durability and upgraded insulation. The black frosted spray paint reduces external damage and won’t rust, and the powerful all-steel housing keeps your Winch safe and secure. Not to mention its subtle yet stylish orange and black color.
But that’s not all– this Winch also comes with convenient wireless and wired remotes so you can have control of your winching from wherever you are. This Winch has a high-quality motor and 1.5HP permanent magnet that lets you get the line speed of 6.1 feet per minute with a full load, so you won’t have to spend all day winching. Our innovative solenoid and clutch system also ensures heat insulation, durability, and high stability, so you can worry less about your Winch getting damaged or overheating.
7/Champion Power Equipment-14560 4500-lb
Whether at home, work, or on the trails, Champion Power Equipment-14560 4500-lb Winch will make your winching experience hassle-free and efficient. With its convenient wireless remote and antenna, you can operate it from anywhere within 50 feet of your vehicle.
And its 1.6-horsepower (12-volt) DC motor and 38-foot galvanized super-duty aircraft cable ensure your load is quickly and safely secured. Its mounting channel, roller fairlead, and included wiring kit are ready to go right out of the box.
8/Superwinch 1145220
Are you ready to take your ATV experience to the next level? Look no further than the Superwinch 1145220 Terra 45 winch. This reliable, powerful Winch offers an impressive 4,500-LB line pull rating and is compatible with most 4-bolt pattern ATV winch mounting kits. The 1.6 hp weather-sealed permanent magnet motor is easy to connect to the vehicle battery, so you can immediately get the power you need.
The extra-durable all-metal 3-stage planetary gear train featuring twice as wide steel gears as the competition provides uncompromised movement no matter the weather conditions. As if that wasn’t enough, this Winch also includes a handlebar-mounted switch, an ergonomic cam-action free spooling clutch, and a four-way roller fairlead (mounting plate sold separately).
9/OFF ROAD BOAR 13000 Lb Winch
Are you an avid off-roader looking for the perfect Winch? Look no further than the Off-Road BOAR 13000 Lb Winch! With an incredible 6.0HP motor, durable synthetic rope, and impressive pulling capacity of 13000 lbs, you can easily tackle any terrain.
Its differential planetary permanent magnet gear and 265:1 gear ratio ensure a rapid line speed. With a speed of up to 23 feet per minute when empty and 4 feet per minute when fully loaded, you’ll have no fuss getting out of tough predicaments.
Additionally, the Off-Road BOAR 13000 Lb Winch has a wireless remote control that can operate the Winch from up to 90 feet away and a wired control switch. Whether driving through rocks, mud, sand, or snow, the Off-Road BOAR 13000 Lb Winch guarantees a safe and successful off-road experience.
10/FIERYRED 12V 5500LBS Electric Winch
The FIERYRED 12V 5500LBS Electric Winch is designed to take your offroading experience to the next level.
With its superior performance and pulling capacity of up to 5,500lbs, this Winch offers reliable, powerful, and faster pulling power than ever before.
Even better, with its dynamic braking system and free spooling clutch, you can easily spool the synthetic rope for safer operation.
To top it off, it’s constructed with high-grade powder-coated aluminum hawse fairlead and galvanized steel hooks. It has an IP67 rating for optimal water resistance when immersed in up to 1m of water for up to 30 minutes.
11/TYT 12V Electric 4500 lb ATV/UTV Winch Kit
Look no further than TYT’s 12V Electric 4500 lb Winch Kit! Our high-efficiency Winch provides 4500 lb of steel cable traction, plus a powerful 1.4kw/1.9hp output permanent magnet DC 12V motor.
We also use an all-metal 3-stage planetary gear system and a reliable dynamic brake so your rope won’t slip during loading.
An aluminum winch cable guide and galvanized steel wire rope are included, making your Winch durable and safe. Our TYT 4500LB winch offers strong pulling force and is perfect for ATVs and UTVs.
Plus, you can use our wireless Winch with anything you need, even in high-wear terrain! With TYT’s 12V Electric 4500 lb Winch Kit on your side, you won’t have to worry about any off-road challenges.
12/Superwinch 1585202 LP8500 Winch
Are you ready to take your offroading adventures to the next level? Look no further than the Superwinch 1585202 LP8500 Winch, the ultimate companion for 4×4 vehicles, trailers, RVs, and any similarly sized vehicle.
The second generation of the LP8500 product line, this Winch is designed with your convenience and ease of use. Its powerful 8,500-lb line pull rating and a 94-foot long 5/16″ steel wire rope ensure no obstacle will stand in your way. Whether you’re stuck in mud or need to haul heavy equipment, the LP8500 has you covered.
Under the hood, you’ll find a mighty 4.5 hp sealed series wound motor powered by a simple, permanent connection to your vehicle battery. This means you’ll never have to worry about running out of power when you need it the most. The LP8500 also features a heavy-duty all-metal 3-stage planetary gear train, providing you with the power and reliability to tackle even the toughest terrain.
13/Superwinch 1130220 LT3000 12V DC
Look no further than the Superwinch 1130220 LT3000 12V DC! Boasting a pull rating of 3,000, this powerful Winch will surely be an outdoorsman’s best choice. Its 1.2 horsepower permanent magnet low-amp draw engine and rugged full metal 3-stage planetary gear train offer robust performance while greatly minimizing noise pollution.
Additionally, it has a wired handheld remote with a 12′ lead for easy operation of the free-spooling ergonomic clutch, plus a heavy-duty 4-way roller fairlead to support your loaded rope or cable.
With its 50 feet of tough 3/16″ wire rope and durable construction backed by Superwinch’s renowned reliability and functionality, you can count on dependable results for light towing duties or full snowplowing operations.
14/Superwinch 1595200 Tiger Shark
The Superwinch 1595200 Tiger Shark is perfect for a powerful and reliable winch. With its 5.2 HP motor and advanced engineering, the Tiger Shark can handle whatever your vehicle throws. It is also weather-sealed to protect from rain, snow, and blowing dust.
The Tiger Shark also has a heavy-duty 12-foot rubber handheld remote with a field-proven design, so switching between tasks is effortless. You’ll also appreciate its heavy-duty stainless steel roller fairlead that has a brushed finish, so it can handle whatever wire rope abuse you put it through. Enjoy an ergonomically shaped free-spool control that is easy to grip and effortless to operate.
15/RUGCEL WINCH 12000lb
You are introducing the RUGCEL WINCH 12000lb – the perfect Winch for your job! This designed Winch is perfect for ATVs, UTVs, cars, boats, trucks, jeeps, modified vehicles, and multi-purpose utility trailers.
With its 6.6hp, 12v series-wound motor and three-stage planetary gear system with free-spooling clutch and 100′ length, 3/8″ diameter nylon rope, you get the ultimate combination of power and durability.
It also has a state-of-the-art 500 Amp solenoid that is waterproof and sandproof and a unique clutch brake system for optimal control. All that, and the 20.8 “X 6.7″ X 10” mounting plate ensures the perfect installation for any job.
What is a Car Trailer?
A car trailer is a type of trailer designed to transport automobiles from one location to another. It is a platform with wheels attached to a vehicle, such as a truck or SUV, and used to carry cars or other vehicles. Car trailers come in various sizes and configurations to accommodate different types of vehicles, from small cars to larger trucks and SUVs.
Different types of car trailers
There are different types of car trailers, including:
Open Car Trailers: These trailers have an open design, typically with a flat platform and no sides or roof. They are commonly used for transporting everyday vehicles, race cars, and other types of automobiles.
Enclosed Car Trailers: Enclosed car trailers have walls and a roof, protecting the vehicles being transported. They are often used for high-value, classic, or exotic cars that must be shielded from weather conditions and potential damage.
Tilt Trailers: Tilt trailers have a tilting bed that can be raised to create a ramp for loading and unloading vehicles. This design eliminates the need for a separate ramp and makes loading vehicles onto the trailer easier.
Gooseneck Trailers: Gooseneck trailers are designed to be towed by a pickup truck with a specialized hitch that connects over the truck’s rear axle. This design offers increased stability and weight distribution, making it suitable for transporting larger vehicles.
Flatbed Trailers: While not exclusively designed for cars, flatbed trailers can be used to transport vehicles by providing a flat, open platform. They are versatile and can transport various items, including cars, equipment, and materials.
What Is A Winch And How Do They Work?
Winches are versatile devices used to wind or unwind ropes or cables. They find common application in pulling cars onto trailers, lifting heavy objects, and towing boats ashore. Winch motors boast a high power-to-weight ratio, making them ideal for automotive applications or any scenario requiring substantial force without added weight.
What Are The Benefits Of Using A Winch for a car trailer?
Winches are incredibly versatile tools with a wide range of applications. Typically used to pull cars onto trailers, they can serve various purposes. With high power-to-weight ratios, winch motors excel in scenarios where substantial force is required without compromising on weight, particularly in automotive applications.
In addition to their exceptional versatility, winches offer numerous benefits. For instance, electric winches operate quietly, making them ideal for residential and commercial settings. On the other hand, hydraulic winches deliver immense force, making them indispensable in industrial applications.
Winches provide unmatched utility, adaptability, and performance across diverse industries.
Buyer’s Guide: Best Winch for car trailer
When selecting a winch for your vehicle, several important factors must be considered. In this guide, we will explore these key considerations to help you make an informed purchase decision.
What’s The Purpose?
Various winches are designed to meet specific needs and situations. For example, different winches should be employed when extracting vehicles from deep mud or loading them onto trucks. This selection ensures optimal performance and enhances overall functionality.
The Size Of Your Car
Choosing the right Winch for your vehicle depends on its size. A smaller winch will be suitable if you have a smaller SUV or lightweight truck. Conversely, larger vehicles require a more powerful winch capable of handling the extra weight.
When selecting a winch, one of the key considerations is ensuring it has sufficient power to move your vehicle. Smaller cars require less power, allowing you to save money by opting for a more affordable model. Conversely, larger vehicles necessitate a stronger winch.
The Type Of Terrain You’ll Be Using It On
There are two main types of winches which include;
Hydraulic Winch:
A hydraulic winch offers remarkable load-carrying capacity and impressive power, albeit at a higher cost and maintenance level. Nevertheless, hydraulic winches are exceptionally versatile, durable, and capable of effortlessly extracting heavy-duty vehicles without concerns like overheating. Moreover, they can be used for extended periods, making them an ideal choice.
Electric Winch:
In contrast, an electric winch relies on your vehicle’s battery for power, having no independent power source. Primarily suitable for small to medium-sized cars, electric winches are lightweight and more budget-friendly. However, they are not recommended for continuous use over extended periods.
Rope Types
Rope types come in two options for pulling different weight capacities: synthetic rope and steel cable. Let’s explore their characteristics:
Synthetic Rope:
Synthetic rope is a relatively new trend in winching technology. It offers remarkable strength while being lighter in weight, making it user-friendly. Typically used with electric winches, synthetic rope saves costs and enhances the frequency of use with a decent load capacity.
Steel Cable:
On the other hand, galvanized steel cable is the traditional, time-tested choice. It boasts easier maintenance, making it a preferred option for heavy-duty applications. With a higher pull capacity, steel cables are exceptionally durable and cost-effective.
Pulling capacity
To ensure safety and optimal performance, it is important to consider the weight-pulling capacity of a winch.
Manufacturers specify this capacity for each Winch, but keeping the load under 500 pounds is generally recommended.
An excellent choice is a winch with a load capacity of one-fourth of your vehicle’s curb weight. Anything exceeding this ratio should be deemed acceptable.
Waterproof
Waterproofing is a critical aspect of winch maintenance. It protects your Winch from corrosion, minimizes humidity, and safeguards goods from water damage.
When selecting a winch, ensure it is properly insulated and completely waterproof. This is particularly important for winches used in challenging situations, such as freeing a stuck car from mud or loading and unloading a car onto a trailer.
Capacity
Ensure a relaxing and secure loading experience by selecting a winch with a 9,000 to 12,000 lbs or more loading capacity. With such a winch, you will effortlessly be able to haul your vehicle or any heavy load with confidence.
Remote Control
Nowadays, remote control winches have gained significant popularity. Not only do they offer safety by allowing the Winch to be operated from a distance, but they also come highly recommended by experts. If you prioritize safety and convenience, opting for a winch with this feature is wise.
Material
We recommend investing in a high-quality winch made of durable material for superior performance. This choice lets you enjoy enhanced features such as weather resistance and rust protection.
The cause of purchasing a car trailer winch
Having an affordable winch on hand can be incredibly useful for getting yourself or someone else out of trouble. Instead of relying on expensive recovery services, a winch allows for easier and more efficient solutions. It’s about more than just safe riding; a winch can assist with various problems.
Whether it’s a broken-down vehicle or the need to load a boat onto a trailer, a trailer winch is the simple answer. A winch can make almost any utility work much easier. The true value of a great winch lies in its ability to provide safety and independence in challenging situations where no one else is available to lend a hand.
How Much Should You Spend On A Winch?
The amount you’re willing to spend on a winch depends on your needs and the size of your vehicle. If you have a small car, an electric winch that costs around $250 should be suitable.
But if you’ll be using it for heavier applications such as hauling boats or recovering larger vehicles, spending around $500-$600 is recommended. This will ensure you get a well-constructed, reliable winch that lasts.
Ultimately, the best Winch meets your needs without breaking the bank. Consider it an investment in your safety and convenience. With the right Winch on hand, you’ll be able to tackle whatever situation comes your way with confidence and ease.
On the other hand, investing in higher-end models with more robust features like waterproofing and remote control may be worth considering if you’re a professional who uses winches regularly. This will ensure optimal performance and extended service life of the Winch.
How Do I Know What Sort Of Pulling Power I Need?
Your Winch should be able to handle the weight of whatever you’re pulling. Choosing a winch with enough power to safely and securely pull your car or other loads is important.
Before deciding which Winch to buy, consider the vehicle’s curb weight, the amount of load you want to carry, and whether it’ll be used for offroading or other purposes. Also, remember that the higher your Winch’s load capacity, the more expensive it is likely to be.
It’s important to choose a winch with an appropriate pulling power for your needs. This will help ensure safety and optimal performance whenever you use your Winch.
FAQs About Best Winch for Car Trailer
How do I choose a winch for my car trailer?
When choosing a winch for your car trailer, consider the Winch’s weight capacity and compatibility with your vehicle. The best Winch should have enough power to safely and securely pull the car or load. It’s also important to consider material durability, waterproofing, and features like remote control.
What weight rating winch for pulling cars?
Choosing a winch with a load capacity of one-fourth of your vehicle’s curb weight is recommended. Anything exceeding this ratio should be deemed acceptable.
How big of a winch do I need for a car trailer?
The size of the Winch you need for a car trailer depends on the weight capacity of your vehicle. Generally, it’s recommended to choose a winch with one-fourth of your vehicle’s curb weight. That way, you can be sure it will have enough power to pull heavier loads.
Is a deep-cycle battery good for winches?
Yes, a deep-cycle battery is ideal for winches. It’s designed to deliver consistent power over lengthy periods, making it the best choice for long-term applications such as hauling heavy loads.
How to take care of a winch cable?
To keep your winch cable in good condition, it’s recommended to spool and unspool the cable slowly. This will ensure the cable stays intact and kinked. Inspecting for frayed wires regularly and replacing them when necessary is also important. You should also lubricate the parts of the Winch with grease every few months to maintain optimal performance.
How to best attach a winch to the car trailer?
To attach a winch to the car trailer, use an appropriate mounting bracket that is compatible with your car trailer and Winch. Make sure to secure the bracket in place with bolts, washers, and nuts while ensuring that all connections are properly tightened.
How do you wire the Winch on the trailer?
Connect the Winch to the car’s battery using the right gauge wiring. To do this, use two sets of wires, one connecting the positive connection and another connecting the negative one. Then, ensure that all connections are properly sealed with electrical tape or waterproof connectors.
What should you not do with a winch?
When using a winch, it is important to remember that it should never be used for pulling heavy items like logs or boulders. Also, do not use the Winch to lift someone or anything else. This can cause serious injury and damage. Finally, avoid overloading the Winch as it may become underpowered and malfunction. Keeping these precautions in mind will ensure a safe and efficient winching experience.
How often should you run your Winch?
It is recommended to run your Winch at least once a month. This will help keep the parts lubricated and in good condition. To do this, use the Winch to pull a light load (e.g., a few hundred pounds) for a few minutes each time you use it. Also, inspect your Winch regularly for any signs of wear and tear, especially in high-use areas. Regular maintenance will extend the life of your Winch and ensure it remains safe to use.
How to best attach a winch to the car trailer?
To attach a winch to the car trailer, use an appropriate mounting bracket that is compatible with your car trailer and Winch. Make sure to secure the bracket in place with bolts, washers, and nuts while ensuring that all connections are properly tightened.
For extra safety, consider using a flexible mount that will reduce vibration during operation. Additionally, use a locking system to keep the Winch securely in place.
How big of a winch do I need for a car trailer?
The size of the Winch you need will depend on the size and weight of your car trailer. Generally speaking, for smaller trailers, you can get away with a lower-capacity winch (e.g., up to 3,000 lbs). However, if your trailer is larger or heavier, you’ll want to invest in a high-capacity winch (e.g., up to 10,000 lbs).
Where do electric winches get power?
Electric winches get power from a car or other vehicle’s 12-volt battery. You’ll need to run the appropriate wiring to connect it, with the negative connection going to the ground and the positive connection going directly to the fuse box. You may also want to install an inline circuit breaker and waterproof connectors for extra safety.
Is a deep-cycle battery good for winches?
Yes, deep-cycle batteries are an excellent choice for winches. They’re designed to provide a steady energy source without getting damaged by repeated discharging and recharging cycles. They also feature thicker plates, making them more resistant to vibration and shock. As such, these batteries can help ensure your car trailer winch continues to deliver optimal performance for longer.
How to take care of a winch cable?
To keep your winch cable in good condition, it’s important to inspect it regularly for any signs of wear and tear. Additionally, avoid using the cable if it is frayed or damaged in any way, as this could cause serious injury and damage. When not in use, store the winch cable neatly on its drum, and lubricate it regularly with a light oil or grease. This will help protect it from corrosion and ensure optimal performance.
How big of a winch do I need to pull a car on a trailer?
The size of the Winch you need to pull a car on a trailer will depend on the weight and size of your vehicle. Generally speaking, for smaller vehicles, you can get away with a low-capacity winch (e.g., up to 5,000 lbs). However, if your vehicle is larger or heavier, you’ll want to invest in a high-capacity winch (e.g., up to 10,000 lbs). It’s important to choose a winch that can handle the weight of your car and its trailer and provide enough power for safe and secure pulling.
How do you attach and connect the Winch?
You must use an appropriate mounting bracket compatible with your car trailer and Winch to attach and connect the Winch properly. Make sure to secure the bracket in place with bolts, washers, and nuts while ensuring that all connections are properly tightened.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best Winch for a car trailer depends on your specific needs and budget. Regardless of your type, investing in a high-quality winch will help ensure your trailer stays securely mounted to your car during transport. Be sure to weigh all considerations before making a purchase.
Additionally, remember that all winches require regular maintenance and inspections to ensure proper functionality and increase their longevity. Taking the time to care for your Winch properly will ultimately translate into greater savings over time. If you are still determining what type of Winch is right for your needs, seek assistance from a professional, as they can provide invaluable tips and insight into selecting the best options for you.
With these tips in mind, you can have confidence knowing you are getting the best Winch for your car trailer! So don’t wait any longer- get shopping today and find the best Winch for car trailers for you now!
I’m Timothy Ballard, owner of a used car dealership in Springfield. I love just about everything automotive, but I have a special place in my heart for trucks. I’m an ASE Certified Master Technician, so I know my way around a car. In my spare time, I enjoy traveling with my family and hiking new trails.