Trailer Winch

[krazykatz911]

The trailer I have is a nicely built one by heritage. The main winch has a lock on it to hold once your done cranking. But I was wondering, should I have some sort of safety chain from the boat to the winch mounting, in case the winch lock let go?

I have rear straps on my boat, but didn't know if that is enough.


If you recommend something, can you direct me where to get it / what it is called?

 

[BUDDY123]

Re: Trailer Winch

Great question, never thought much about that winch letting loose. I will be adding a safety cable from the boat to some part of the trailer, just in case, or with my luck, when it does let loose.

 

[NYBo]

Re: Trailer Winch

Yep. Safety chain from bow eye to base of winch post.

 

[rwidman]

Re: Trailer Winch

If you've ever read the instructions that come with the winch, they will caution you not to rely on the winch to hold the boat on the trailer. The winch is to pull the boat onto the trailer or let it into the water gently.

You need a safety strap or chain (or both) holding the bow eye to the trailer. And straps holding the stern to the trailer.

Secure your load!

 

[eedwards]

Re: Trailer Winch

I thought it was the law to have a safety chain.

 

[gozierdt]

Re: Trailer Winch

I've researched this on the forum, and found a lot of recommendations to have a better bow tie-down than just the winch strap. Here's what I added after looking at a lot of pictures showing way's to do it. It's a turnbuckle with chain on each end, all tied together with shackles. Angle iron strap on the bottom, attached to the trailer tongue with a 3/8" U-bolt.

 

[cribber]

Re: Trailer Winch

The bow strap on the winch will keep your boat snug... a safety chain will keep it out of your back seat or bed of your truck.

 

[rwidman]

Re: Trailer Winch

The bow strap on the winch will keep your boat snug... a safety chain will keep it out of your back seat or bed of your truck.

And that is why I had both on my trailer boat.

 

[krazykatz911]

Re: Trailer Winch

I am putting on a short safety strap. I am really surprised that the trailer manufacturers don't have them as standard option.

 

[scca vette]

Re: Trailer Winch

And that is why I had both on my trailer boat.

I like your idea of the box mounted to the trailer in the front. I will have to do some measuring and see if I can do the same on mine.

Thanks for the idea!

 

[bassman284]

Re: Trailer Winch

I am putting on a short safety strap. I am really surprised that the trailer manufacturers don't have them as standard option.

My 2001 Shorelander came with a safety chain. I think it's standard on most trailers anymore. Not sure when they started.

 

[SangerTom]

Re: Trailer Winch

I got a strap for the bow eye/post from West Marine - works great.