Choosing a heavy duty winch starts with determining how you are likely to use the device. Winches come in a variety of sizes, and the most appropriate one will vary depending on your needs. A person using the heavy duty winch for an off-road vehicle, for example, will need a different model than someone using the device in a warehouse or factory for moving extremely heavy items. Once you have determined how you are going to use the winch, do a bit of research into the various brands that are reputable and offer a strong warranty.
Consider how the heavy duty winch will be powered. An electric winch is most appropriate for off-road vehicles as well as various purposes within the weight capacity of the motor and cable. Each manufacturer will set forth weight capacity guidelines that will help dictate for what purposes the device can be used. Exceeding this weight capacity will risk damage to the device as well as potential injury to bystanders. This is perhaps the most important consideration when choosing a heavy duty winch, and it is best to choose a device that can handle more than the weight you intend to haul or lift on a regular basis.
The weight capacity will be determined by the size of the motor as well as the cable. Larger diameter cables are usually more able to haul heavier weights, though they will require a larger drum around which the cable is wrapped, as well as a larger motor and housing. Industrial applications, such as moving or hauling objects in a factory setting, often require exceptionally large heavy duty winch models, and these can feature motors that run off gasoline or diesel fuel. While unlikely, a heavy duty winch can also be powered manually by turning a crank arm. This is usually not practical for exceptionally heavy duty applications.
If the unit needs to be mounted to a vehicle, make sure the winch and the vehicle will work in conjunction with each other. The device is mounted in most cases using heavy duty bolts, and the bumper or frame of the vehicle will need to be able to accept such bolts. The frame or bumper of the vehicle will also need to be strong enough to handle the weight of the device as well as the pulling forces of heavy objects when the winch is in use.
