2500lb or 3500lb, how to choose a suitable winch?

Electric winches are indispensable equipment for off-road adventures or towing rescues. Many people may not realize the importance of a winch until they really need it, but once they are in trouble, the value of a winch will be revealed. Therefore, it is crucial to install a high-quality, appropriately sized winch on your ATV or UTV.

For off-road enthusiasts, the presence of a winch is not only to increase the sense of security, but also the key to ensure that every adventure goes smoothly. Whether driving on rocks, mud, snow or sand, although the winch will not directly improve the performance of the vehicle like suspension or tire upgrades, it can save you from difficulties at critical moments and make your off-road journey more enjoyable and reassuring.

Off-roading Winch

Choosing the right winch model is crucial, especially when there are various models and pulling specifications on the market. From 2500lbs to 12000lbs, how should you make the best choice between them? This article will detail the characteristics, applicable scenarios and factors to consider when choosing different lbs winches, to help you choose the most suitable winch according to your actual needs and be fully prepared for your off-road adventure.

How to choose a winch with the right poundage?

Consider the weight of the car

First, make sure that the traction of the electric winch is greater than the weight of the car. Generally speaking, the weight of a car is about 1500kg. The traction of the electric winch is calculated in pounds, and one pound is about 454 grams. From this, it can be seen that the traction of a winch of 3500lbs is about 1587kg. Therefore, for ordinary cars, choosing an electric winch with a traction of at least 3500lbs is a starting standard.

Consider the driving environment

It is not enough to just pay attention to the weight of the car, but also to consider the environment in which the car often drives. If your car often drives in deserts, swamps, etc., the resistance in these environments is greater. In order to ensure that the winch can still work effectively in these difficult environments, it is recommended to choose a winch with a traction of twice the weight of the car. For example, for a 1500kg car, it is safer to choose a winch with a traction of about 3000kg (i.e. 6000lbs).

Consider the resistance when the vehicle is trapped

When using a winch to get out of trouble, friction and other resistance cannot be ignored. A 2800kg vehicle in a trapped state weighs much more than the average vehicle. Using a winch that is close to the vehicle's weight for towing may overload it and cause danger. Therefore, consider the extra drag and weight when selecting a winch.

Consider the mounting location of the winch

The mounting location is also very important. If you rarely leave the sidewalk or gravel road and live in an area that is not subject to much snow, water or mud, then a low-mounted winch or one mounted behind the original bumper is acceptable. But if your environment is prone to snow, water or mud, you need to keep the winch and control cable as far off the ground as possible.

If you want to learn more about winch selection, you can also check out our other articles:

• Synthetic Rope vs. Wire Rope: Which Is Best for Off-road Winches?

• How to choose the best winch for ATV or UTV?

ZHME recommended winches

X2500 UTV Winch

If you're driving an ATV or a Side x Side motorcycle on the edge and pushing its limits, then you need a winch that can keep up with your pace.

2500lbs Winch

• Low current and high efficiency minimize battery drain.

• Water resistance o ring seal keeps the winch working well through water.

• Patented matching drum and gear assembly ensures quiet operation.

• Stainless steel for strengthening threaded holes.

• 3 stage all metal gears for maximum strength.

• Large and easy operation clutch lever.

• Independent Mechanical brake system.

PM3500 Electric Winch

3500lbs Winch

• Metal differential planetary gear train.

• Pull and turn free spooling clutch.

• Automatic braking action.

A9500S Off Road Winch

9500lbs Winch

• 12V volt high performance series wound motor for power and fast line speed.

• Fully independent and automatic braking ensures safety and reliability.

• High-efficiency, lower noise steel 3-stage planetary gears.

• New Design & Easy operated Clutch lever.

• Aircraft grade wire rope, or synthetic rope is optional.

• Remote switch & wireless remote control being alternative.

• Multifold mounting options including vertical over tie rod, and over motor.

E12500 Electric Winch

12500lbs Winch

• All sealed high performance motor delivers superior torque output and faster line speed.

• The brand new heavy – duty sealed contactor with silver alloy contacts allows higher duty cycle.

• ZHME patented oil seals with double lips fixed on drum supports for waterproof.

• Automatic full load brake.

• Oversized tie rods strut for maximum strength. Laser your logos freely.

• Aluminum alloy clutch lever makes the operation easily.

• Revolutionary 3-stage Planetary Gear System for ultimate strength and quiet operation. Different gear ratio for options.

• Steel bushing prevents the gear box cover from grinding by end of driven shaft.

• Knurled drum special for synthetic rope.

• IP68