In the process of selecting a new portable winch, accurately determining the load you'll need your winch to pull or lift is paramount. This guide will walk you through the specifics of the two main winch types: battery-operated winches and gas winches, aiding your decision-making in how to choose a winch.

Determining the Winch Capacity

The first thing to keep in mind when figuring out how to choose winch capacity for your new gas winch is its maximum load capacity. To avoid any mishaps, select a winch with a pulling force that's double the load you plan on towing. Plus, it's prudent to include a 50% safety margin.

Winch pulling capacities are typically denoted in kilograms or pounds. Keeping in mind that 0.45 kg equates to one pound will help you calculate the load you need to lift, ensuring you pick a winch of the right strength.

When selecting your new gas or battery-powered portable winch, pay special attention to the declared load-lifting capacity. If it's described as a 'hauling load,' this refers to the force required for pulling, not lifting the load.

It's worth noting that a gas or battery-operated winch's pulling power can be significantly boosted through the use of a pulley system.

Understanding Gas Winches

While a gas winch does require gasoline and oil to function, it's known for its robustness. On some models, you can switch out the drum to increase the device's speed. Gas winches can handle load forces from 700 to 1000 kg.

vIt's worth mentioning that the PCW4000 model of gas winches includes a quick-release anti-recoil device, which securely holds the load when the winch's rope is let go, thanks to a centrifugal clutch.

Getting to Know Battery Winches

If you're aiming to steer clear of gasoline, choosing a battery-powered winch will fulfill this need. These portable winches offer an operating time between 20 and 40 minutes.

With this option, be prepared for the possibility of needing to recharge the battery mid-use. However, this task only takes a few seconds, so it doesn't interfere with the winch's operation speed or cause long delays. Moreover, the battery won't suffer damage if recharged before it's entirely drained. It's worth mentioning that battery winches can also lift loads up to 1000 kg.