WINCH GUIDE EXPERTISE - ANCRA CARGO

Choosing the Right Winch for Your Trailer: A Comprehensive Guide

When selecting a winch for your trailer, several important factors must be considered:

• Do you need a permanently mounted winch?
• Should the winch be easily removable?
• Do you require a Standard or Ratcheting winch?
• Will you be using chains or straps?

Once you’ve answered these questions, you’ll be able to identify the best winch for your specific needs.

Understanding Winch Components

The Frame

The frame is the structural foundation of the winch, housing all the other components. Both Slide On and Clip On winches share the same frame design, though Clip On winches have extended legs for additional security.

Pawl & Pawl Pin

The pawl is the latch that locks the sprocket in place once the desired tension is reached. It works by engaging the sprocket teeth, preventing slippage and maintaining the required tension on the strap or chain. The pawl pin secures the pawl to the frame.

Sprocket

The sprocket is the toothed wheel that rotates to create tension. Once the necessary tension is achieved, the pawl locks into place, ensuring stability. More sprocket teeth allow for finer tension adjustments.

End Cap

Also known as "The Boss," the end cap features holes for inserting a winch bar, which is used to tighten the strap. Traditional winches require users to remove and reposition the winch bar during operation. However, Ancra Cargo has innovated with the Silver-Cap Ratcheting Cap, allowing continuous tightening without removing the winch bar.

The Mandrel

Often referred to as the barrel, the mandrel is the tube around which the strap or chain is wound. Different manufacturers offer various mandrel designs, affecting performance and compatibility.

Types of Winches

Permanently Mounted Winches

Slide On Winches attach to winch tracks on trailers. These tracks can be welded or bolted in place, allowing for adjustable positioning. This design is ideal for highway driving where dirt and dust accumulation is minimal.

Removable Winches

Clip On Winches attach to the tie rail and combing rail of a trailer. They can be easily removed for cleaning, making them suitable for dusty or dirty environments where maintenance is essential.

Standard vs. Ratcheting Winches

Standard Winches

Traditional winches require a winch bar to be inserted into the Boss, rotated to tighten the strap, and repositioned at the top of the stroke to continue tightening.

Ratcheting Winches

Ratcheting winches feature a Ratchet Boss, allowing continuous tightening without removing the winch bar. Ancra Cargo's patented Silver Cap Ratcheting Winch enhances efficiency and ease of use.

Winch Bars

Winch Bars are essential for tightening and releasing winches. It is not recommended to use makeshift alternatives like pipes, as they may compromise safety and effectiveness.

Straps & Chains

Although chains can be used with winches, most are not rated for high-capacity chain lashing. Winch straps remain the preferred option, available in multiple sizes and strengths:

• 50mm straps with a 2,500kg lashing capacity are commonly used.
• 9m and 11m lengths are standard in Australian trucking.
• 75mm and 100mm straps offer higher lashing capacities.

Winches generally accommodate up to 11m of strap when fully wound.

Get Expert Advice

For more information on selecting the right winch for your needs, contact:
Ancra Cargo Australia on 1800 426 272 or
Ancra Cargo New Zealand on 0508 426 272