Get unstuck: Practical winch tips for overlanders
13 Nov, 2024
For overlanders, a winch is more than just a helpful tool—it’s a crucial piece of recovery equipment that can mean the difference between moving forward or being stranded for hours, if not days. Challenging routes, rough terrains, or muddy paths can often lead to situations where a vehicle gets stuck, sometimes in very remote or hard-to-access areas. In such cases, a winch can make all the difference in getting back on track. Carrying a winch also serves another purpose: it can be a lifeline for others in the overlanding community. Overlanders frequently encounter one another in remote locations, and a winch provides the capability to help fellow adventurers or, conversely, to be helped by someone equipped with one.
Recovery operations with a winch can be lengthy and complicated, often slowed down by factors like the absence of strong anchor points, challenging weather, or nighttime conditions. During these times, having a James Baroud rooftop tent becomes invaluable. With its rapid setup, excellent protection from wildlife and insects, and superior weather resistance, it provides a safe and comfortable space for overlanders to rest or take shelter. This is particularly advantageous for those traveling with children or pets, as it offers a secure space for them to wait while the recovery is underway. James Baroud tents even allow the vehicle to be moved even while it’s open, meaning you can react quickly in shifting situations without worrying about closing down a tent.
Winches are essential for recovering vehicles stuck in challenging off-road conditions
Florida swamp escape: Winches, alligators, and rooftop tents
– By Ruben De Sousa
“I was on a day trip with six friends, two per vehicle. We were in a swamp called Picayune Strand State Forest in Florida. After driving for three hours on dirt roads, we decided to stop and prepare lunch. While we were eating, a storm hit and flooded the entire route, including the path we had driven on for the past three hours, making it impossible to exit the way we came. The vehicles’ tires were fully submerged at all times, and this swamp is full of alligators.
One vehicle took the lead to search for an exit. When the terrain got too soft, we attached a 90 feet winch rope to the lead vehicle so that if it got stuck, we wouldn’t have to jump into alligator-infested waters and walk 90 feet to attach it. We advanced until nightfall. Obviously, we didn’t want to continue in the dark, and those of us with rooftop tents opened them up and rested safely before resuming our search for an exit the next day.”
Ruben De Sousa is the owner of Autobruder with 20+ years of overlanding experience. From a family of outdoor enthusiasts that migrated from Madeira Island to the Americas, he grew up in Venezuela exploring beaches and farmland every weekend.
In 2001 he migrated to the United States, became a Mechanical Engineer and MBA working corporate jobs until getting the opportunity to enter the outdoor space by acquiring Autobruder.
Ruben lives in Southwest Ranches Florida where he enjoys many outdoor activities with his 3 kids including playing soccer, pickleball, beekeeping, and of course plenty of camping and overlanding.
What is a winch?
For overlanders unfamiliar with winches, these mechanical devices are designed to pull in or let out a heavy load, typically using a rope or cable wound around a drum. In overlanding, it’s primarily used for vehicle recovery, enabling drivers to extricate their vehicles from obstacles like mud, sand, snow, or steep inclines.
Types of winches: Choosing the right one for overlanding
There are two primary types of winches that overlanders typically rely on: electric winches and hydraulic winches. Both have their advantages, and the choice largely depends on your specific overlanding needs.
Electric winches
These are the most common winches used by overlanders. They are powered by the vehicle’s battery, making them relatively easy to install and operate. Their convenience, affordability, and versatility make them a popular choice.
Considerations:
Battery drain: Extended use can deplete the vehicle’s battery. It’s crucial to monitor power levels during operation to prevent being stranded with a dead battery. Some overlanders opt to install a second deep-cycle battery to mitigate this issue.
Heat generation: Prolonged winching can cause the motor to overheat. Allowing the winch to cool down between uses can help maintain its longevity and performance.
The WARN ZEON 12-S Platinum winch offers powerful and reliable performance for tough recovery situations
Recommendations:
When selecting an electric winch, ensure its pulling capacity exceeds your vehicle’s weight by at least 1.5 times. This margin accounts for additional forces encountered during recovery, such as mud resistance or steep inclines.
Regular maintenance, including inspecting cables or synthetic ropes for wear and ensuring electrical connections are secure, will enhance the winch’s reliability and lifespan.
Incorporating an electric winch into your overlanding gear equips you to tackle unforeseen challenges, providing peace of mind and enhancing the safety of your adventures.
Hydraulic winches
These winches are powered by your vehicle’s hydraulic power steering pump, meaning they can work for longer periods without overheating or draining the battery. They’re ideal for heavy-duty use, especially if your vehicle is larger or you frequently encounter challenging terrain. Link to hydraulic winches.
Considerations:
Complex installation: Integrating a hydraulic winch requires connecting it to the vehicle’s power steering system, a process that can be more intricate and time-consuming compared to installing an electric winch.
Higher cost: The advanced capabilities and durability of hydraulic winches come at a premium, often making them more expensive than their electric counterparts.
Engine dependency: Hydraulic winches require the vehicle’s engine to be running for operation. In situations where the engine is stalled or submerged, this dependency can pose challenges.
Warn Series G2 12 Hydraulic Winch built for heavy duty use
Recommendations:
For overlanders with larger rigs or those who frequently navigate harsh terrains, investing in a hydraulic winch can be advantageous. However, it’s essential to weigh the benefits against the complexities of installation and cost. Ensuring that your vehicle’s hydraulic system is compatible and in good condition is crucial for optimal performance.
Regular maintenance, including checking hydraulic fluid levels and inspecting connections, will help maintain the winch’s reliability and longevity.
Incorporating a hydraulic winch into your overlanding setup equips you to handle demanding recovery situations with confidence, enhancing the safety and success of your adventures.
When choosing a winch, consider factors such as your vehicle’s weight, the terrain you’ll be tackling, and the frequency with which you’ll need recovery assistance. A general rule of thumb is to select a winch with a capacity of 1.5 to 2 times the weight of your vehicle to ensure safe and effective recovery.
How to choose the right winch rope length
Selecting the right winch rope length is crucial for safe and efficient vehicle recovery in overlanding. The ideal length provides both performance, adaptability and flexibility for various terrains. Here are key points to help you decide:
Vehicle weight and size: If you’re driving a heavier vehicle, opt for a longer rope. Larger, heavier vehicles need more reach to find suitable anchor points, especially in rugged or remote areas.
Proper winch use is vital for safe off-road recovery in overlanding.
Terrain considerations: Think about the environments you frequent. In dense forests, closer anchor points may be available, so a shorter rope can work well. In open desert or wide, obstacle-free areas, a longer rope might be essential for reaching distant anchor points.
Winch capacity: Check your winch’s drum capacity. Longer ropes can exceed the drum’s limit, impacting pulling power. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for maximum rope length to ensure safe and effective use.
Optimal lengths: Standard winch ropes range from 50 to 150 feet. Shorter lengths (around 50–75 feet) are great for compact vehicles and easier recoveries, while longer ropes (100–150 feet) are versatile, giving you flexibility for complex recovery scenarios and diverse terrains.
Safety and storage: Longer ropes provide more reach but can be challenging to store neatly, risking tangling and reduced capacity. A balance between reach and manageability is key.
Winch rope extensions: For added flexibility, consider carrying an extension. This way, you can adjust reach without exceeding the drum capacity.
Correct Anchoring Angles for Optimal Winch Performance and Safety
Using a winch for vehicle recovery is a fundamental skill in overlanding, but achieving safe and effective recovery is more than just hooking up the winch to an anchor. One crucial element often overlooked is the anchoring angle. Correct anchoring angles optimize winch performance, minimize strain on recovery equipment, and increase safety during recovery. Let’s dive into the basics of anchoring angles and some key considerations for safe winching.
A winch can be a lifeline in deep mud, helping to pull vehicles out of challenging spots
The angle of the winch line relative to the vehicle affects how evenly the load is distributed during recovery. Ideally, you want the winch line to pull as straight as possible from the vehicle to the anchor. A straight pull (0° angle) distributes the force evenly across the winch drum, reducing the chance of damage to the winch and improving its pulling efficiency. The more the angle deviates from a straight pull, the more lateral force is applied, which can lead to uneven spooling and increased wear on the winch line and drum.
Recommended angling: The 0-30° Rule
According to recovery experts and equipment manufacturers, an angle of 0-30° from the winch line to the vehicle’s centerline is generally considered safe. At angles within this range, the winch line maintains a nearly direct pull, minimizing lateral strain and allowing for smoother operation. If the anchor point is off to the side of the vehicle, snatch blocks can be used to redirect the line, reducing strain on the winch and helping achieve a safer pulling angle.
Snatch block increases winch efficiency for challenging recoveries
According to the Overland Journal and winch manufacturer WARN Industries, keeping the winch line as close to straight as possible helps avoid unnecessary strain on winch components and improves pulling power, especially in high-stress recovery situations. Using snatch blocks for angling adjustments in cases where a direct line is impossible, a snatch block (a type of pulley) can be used to alter the angle of the winch line. By attaching the snatch block to a secondary anchor, you can create a double line pull or even a multi-angle pull, which not only changes the direction of the pull but also distributes the load more effectively. Using a snatch block allows you to adjust the angle to within a safer range, even if the anchor point is not directly in front of the vehicle.
Safety risks of extreme angling
When the winch line angle exceeds 30-45°, the lateral force on the line increases significantly. This added force strains the winch drum, can cause the winch to spool unevenly, and in severe cases, can lead to line breakage. A broken winch line under tension can recoil dangerously, posing a serious risk to anyone nearby. When you must pull from an extreme angle, setting up multiple anchor points with additional snatch blocks is recommended to distribute the load evenly and keep the line within a safer angle.
If the vehicle rolls due to difficult terrain, the winch is the solution
Off-road safety guidelines from the International 4-Wheel Drive Trainers Association emphasize that improper anchoring angles are a leading cause of winch line failure. They recommend using multi-anchor setups with snatch blocks to reduce the risk of lateral load-induced line failure .
Angling and anchor setup
Assess the terrain: Before setting up your winch, evaluate the available anchor points and try to choose one that allows for the most direct pull.
Use a tree saver strap: If you’re anchoring to a tree, use a tree saver strap to prevent damaging the tree and ensure a strong, stable anchor point.
Winches provide essential recovery support for vehicles stuck in sand
Plan for multi-point anchors: In situations with limited direct anchors, set up multiple anchor points with snatch blocks to achieve a safer, straighter angle for the winch line..
By understanding the importance of anchoring angles and how to adjust them safely, you can maximize your winch’s performance and protect your recovery equipment from excessive wear. Keeping angles within the recommended range of 0-30°, using snatch blocks when necessary, and always prioritizing safe anchoring techniques can make a world of difference in effective, safe overlanding recoveries.
Synthetic vs. Steel Cable Ropes
Both options have their unique strengths and weaknesses, so understanding how they perform in different situations can help you choose the best option for your adventures.
Durable synthetic winch ropes are lightweight and ideal for overlanding pull outs
Synthetic Rope:
Synthetic ropes, typically made from high-strength polyethylene, have become increasingly popular for overlanders due to their lightweight and user-friendly nature. It offers significant advantages for overlanding, including being lightweight and easy to handle, which reduces winch strain and aids in solo recoveries. They float on water, making them ideal for swampy conditions, and are safer under tension, posing less recoil danger if they break. However, they are more susceptible to abrasion, UV exposure, and heat, requiring regular inspection and maintenance. Synthetic ropes are typically more expensive than steel cables, and routine cleaning after muddy or wet recoveries helps preserve their durability.
Equipped with a front winch, this vehicle is ready for self-recovery in remote areas
Synthetic ropes are ideal for overlanders who prioritize safety, ease of use, and lightweight equipment. They are especially beneficial for vehicles that frequently traverse soft terrain, like sand or snow, and for solo travelers who may need to handle the line alone.
Steel Cable:
Steel cables, a traditional winch line choice, are valued for their durability and affordability, making them well-suited for rugged, abrasive conditions. Their resistance to high temperatures and long recoveries adds to their reliability. However, steel cables are heavy, rigid, and can be difficult to handle in adverse conditions, potentially causing kinks or burrs that require gloves for safe use. Additionally, steel cables carry a higher risk of dangerous recoil if they snap, making safety gear like a winch damper essential for safe operation.
Steel cables are well-suited for vehicles with larger winch setups, heavier vehicles, or frequent use in rocky, abrasive environments. They are ideal for overlanders who prioritize durability and work in environments where weight is less of a concern.
Popular winch brands for overlanding
Choosing a reliable winch brand can make a significant difference in performance, durability, and safety. Here are some well known brands used worldwide:
WARN: Known as a leader in the winching industry, WARN offers high-quality, durable winches that are popular among both professionals and recreational overlanders. Their extensive range of products includes both electric and hydraulic winches, along with a wide variety of accessories. WARN winches are often praised for their reliability and long lifespan.
Comeup: It offers both electric and hydraulic winches, catering to a wide range of vehicle types and recovery needs. Comeup winches are built for heavy-duty use, with features like high-resistance synthetic ropes and waterproofing, ensuring they perform optimally in harsh weather and challenging terrains.
Equipped for adventure, this rig’s winch setup provides peace of mind on remote trails.
Superwinch: With a focus on durability and functionality, Superwinch produces rugged winches capable of handling extreme conditions. Superwinch is known for its user-friendly designs and robust construction, which makes it a favorite among off-road enthusiasts.
When selecting a winch, it’s important to choose a model suited to your vehicle’s weight and the type of terrain you’ll be encountering, and to look for features like IP-rated waterproofing, wireless remote options, and solid customer support.
Use of remote controls for winch operation
Remote controls add an extra layer of safety and convenience in winch operations by allowing you to stand at a safer distance while operating the winch. This reduces the risk of injury if the line snaps or the vehicle shifts unexpectedly.
Types of remote controls:
Wired remote controls: The traditional remote controls for winches connect directly to the winch via a cable. While they limit your distance, they are reliable and do not require batteries or pairing, which is advantageous in emergencies.
With a powerful winch and a James Baroud rooftop tent, this classic overlander is ready for remote trails
Wireless remote controls: Wireless remotes offer greater freedom by allowing you to control the winch from a distance, typically up to 50 feet away. It allows flexibility to move around and maintain clear visibility, which is crucial for monitoring obstacles during recovery. They also make winching easier on challenging terrain, where frequent adjustments are needed. Many reputable brands offer wireless remote options as an upgrade or add-on feature.
When choosing a remote control, ensure it is compatible with your winch and consider waterproof models for added durability in harsh conditions. For overlanders frequently working alone, a remote control is a valuable addition to the recovery kit, providing flexibility and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choose a winch with a capacity at least 1.5 times the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of your vehicle. For instance, a vehicle with a GVWR of 5,000 lbs would require a winch with a minimum capacity of 7,500 lbs.
Establish an exclusion zone
Keep bystanders at a safe distance during winching to prevent injuries from potential cable failures or sudden movements.
Use protective gear
Always wear heavy leather gloves when handling winch cables to protect against cuts and abrasions. Winch dampers (also known as winch line dampers) are essential safety accessories used in winching and vehicle recovery. They are designed to reduce the risk of injury if a winch line snaps under tension. When a winch cable or rope breaks, the stored kinetic energy can cause the line to recoil at high speed, potentially leading to severe injury or damage to anything in its path. A winch damper absorbs and disperses this energy, helping to minimize the whip-back effect and making winching operations significantly safer.
Monitor equipment load
Avoid exceeding the winch’s rated capacity to prevent equipment failure. Use a snatch block to distribute the load and reduce strain on the winch when necessary.
To ensure your winch is always ready when you need it, regular maintenance is essential. One key step is to inspect your winch cable or synthetic rope regularly. Look for any signs of fraying, cuts, or wear, as damaged cables can fail during recovery, putting you and your vehicle at risk. If any damage is found, it’s important to replace the cable immediately.
Additionally, it’s important to check the winch drum and gears to ensure they are clean and free of debris like dirt, mud, or sand, which can cause the winch to jam or operate inefficiently. Keeping these components in good condition will help your winch run smoothly when it’s needed most.
For electric winches, it’s also vital to test the electrical system. Make sure all connections are secure and free from corrosion to prevent power loss during recovery operations. This ensures that your winch operates at full capacity without any issues.
Got a story where your winch saved the day on an overlanding trip?
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