Winches
About Winches
A winch is the recovery tool that gets a stuck machine out without waiting for another rig. It pulls through a cable or rope wound on a drum, driven by an electric motor from the machine's battery. For trail riding, hunting, farm work and plowing, it is one of the most useful accessories you can add to a UTV or ATV.
The main thing to match is the pulling rating. A common rule of thumb is a winch rated at least one and a half times the loaded weight of the machine, because mud, water and an incline all add resistance. Next is the line. Steel wire rope is tough and handles abrasion, while synthetic rope is lighter, safer if it breaks and easier on your hands, but it needs more care around rocks and sharp edges. Finally, the winch has to mount to your machine, usually with a model-specific plate or mount, plus a remote or switch to run it.
Winches in this category come from brands including Warn, Open Trail, Kolpin, Kimpex and KFI Products. Model-specific winch mounts and mounting kits are listed here too, along with accessories such as a snatch block. For the rest of a recovery kit, see Tow Ropes, Chains & Straps, Plows and Trailer Hitches, all part of Towing, Recovery & Accessories.
FAQs on UTV and ATV winches
What size winch do I need for my UTV or ATV?
Take the loaded weight of the machine, including gear and passengers, and multiply by about 1.5. Choose a winch rated at or above that number. Heavier side-by-sides usually need a higher rating than a small ATV.
Is synthetic rope better than steel cable?
Each has a place. Synthetic rope is lighter, does not store as much energy if it fails and is easier to handle. Steel cable resists cuts and abrasion better, so it suits rocky or rough ground. Either way, wear gloves and inspect the line before use.
Do I need a special mount to install a winch?
Usually yes. Most machines use a model-specific mounting plate that bolts to the front frame, and it is sold separately from the winch in many cases. Pick your machine in the Ride Finder to find the right mount.
How do I use a winch safely?
Keep hands and clothing clear of the drum and line, keep bystanders back, leave a few wraps of line on the drum, and use a strap or damper on the line when pulling. Never use a winch to tow or lift people, and read the manual before the first pull.
Will a winch drain my battery?
A winch draws a lot of current, so run the engine while using it and keep the battery and charging system in good shape. Short pulls with rests in between are easier on the battery and the winch motor.
