Trailer and Electric Winches

Guide to Finding the Right Electric Winch article.

Guide to Synthetic or Steel Wire Winch Rope article.

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Winches for Every Heavy-Duty Job

Whether you're loading your boat, recovering your ATV, or pulling a car onto a trailer, the right winch makes the job safer and easier. At etrailer, we offer a full selection of electric and manual winches built for hauling, lifting, and recovery—plus accessories like ropes, remotes, and fairleads. Choose from compact hand-crank winches to heavy-duty electric recovery winches with synthetic or steel cables. Need to upgrade your mounting setup or replace a strap? We’ve got the durable gear to help you tackle the toughest pulls with confidence.

With over 75 years of assisting our neighbors and customers, over 1 million photos and videos taken to make sure you’re getting exactly what you need, and over 35 thousand installations completed, we’ve got the product know-how and experience to help you make the right choices for the job at hand.

What kinds of winches are there, and what are they used for?

There are a few types, depending on what you need. Hand winches are great for lighter stuff, like loading small boats or ATVs. Electric winches are perfect for heavier jobs, like pulling cars onto trailers or getting a stuck vehicle out of the mud. If you’re working in an industrial setting with really heavy loads, hydraulic winches are your go-to.

How do I figure out what size winch I need?

Take the maximum weight you’ll be pulling and multiply it by 1.5. So, if your vehicle weighs 4,000 lbs, go for a winch with at least a 6,000-lb capacity. It’s always better to have a little extra pulling power than not enough.

What’s the difference between synthetic winch rope and steel cable?

Synthetic rope is lightweight, easier to handle, and won’t whip if it breaks. Steel cable is abrasion-resistant and built for rugged use. Go with synthetic if safety and ease-of-use matter more, or choose steel if you need durability in rough terrain.

How do I take care of my winch so it lasts?

Regular maintenance makes a big difference. Clean it after use, especially if you’ve been in mud or sand. Check the cable or rope for frays and inspect the other parts for damage. Don’t forget to lubricate the moving parts—it keeps everything running smoothly and prevents rust. Following the manufacturer’s guide is always a good idea too.

How do I wire an electric winch to my vehicle?

Wiring an electric winch can feel tricky, but it’s manageable with the right guide. If you need step-by-step instructions, check out our FAQ on How to Wire an Electric Winch.