- 1). Compare drive train configurations among electric winches. A spur gear drive train has a fast line speed and it's reliable, but it can be unstable and you may end up losing your load because of it. Worm gear drive trains, most popular for use on tow trucks, are for use when you need to hold or lower an object. Worm gear drive trains typically operate slower than other types of electric winch drive trains. Planetary gear drive trains are a combination of both spur and worm gear drive trains. They are smaller, weigh less and cost less. Planetary gear drive trains are the most popular type of drive train used with electric winches.
- 2). Choose a winch with the motor that can best handle your application. There are two main types of electric winch motors: permanent magnetic (PM) and series wound (SW). PM motors have a lower amp draw, which means they are more energy efficient. Less power, however, means they aren't for use in extreme terrain or recovery situations. Expect to pay more for SW electric winch motors, but they are for extreme use and they have a large power pull. You may need to upgrade the alternator, battery and other electrical components in your vehicle to operate an SW motor.
- 3). Buy an electric winch that's the right size. You need a winch capacity that's at least 1.5 times your gross vehicle weight. For example, if you anticipate using a winch on a 5,000-lb. vehicle, you need an electric winch with a capacity of 7,500 lbs.
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