Winch Size Calculator
Calculate the required winch capacity for vehicle recovery operations
Calculate Winch Size
Distance from front axle to center of mass
Winch Size Results
Safety Analysis
Example Calculation
Jeep Recovery Example
Vehicle: Jeep Wrangler (3,750 lbs)
Scenario: Stuck in mud (surface factor: 2)
Surface: Mud with 2 damaged wheels out of 4
Slope: 15° uphill grade
Calculation
Damage Resistance = 3,750 × (2÷4) = 1,875 lbs
Rolling Resistance = 3,750 ÷ 2 = 1,875 lbs
Gradient Resistance = 0 lbs (under 15°)
Total Pull = 3,750 lbs
Recommended Capacity = 5,625 lbs (1.5x safety)
Winch Types
Electric Winch
12V/24V powered
Easy installation, moderate duty
Hydraulic Winch
Power steering driven
Heavy duty, continuous operation
Manual Winch
Hand operated
No power required, portable
Winch Safety Tips
Always use 1.5x safety factor minimum
Inspect cable/rope before each use
Use proper anchor points and rigging
Never exceed rated capacity
Consider environmental factors
Understanding Winch Size Calculations
What is a Winch?
A winch is a mechanical device used to pull, lift, or haul objects using a rotating drum around which a rope or cable is wound. In vehicle recovery, winches provide the mechanical advantage needed to move stuck or overturned vehicles.
Why is Proper Sizing Important?
- •Ensures safe vehicle recovery operations
- •Prevents winch overload and failure
- •Optimizes recovery time and efficiency
- •Protects against cable/rope failure
Calculation Methods
Righting Formula
Pull = (CoG × Weight) ÷ Height
For uprighting rolled vehicles
Moving Formula
Pull = Damage + Rolling + Gradient
For pulling/towing operations
Safety Factor: Always multiply by 1.5 for recommended capacity