What winch capacity should I get?
Documented on the Winch on hitch | Let's build it PT 2 build
Published July 12, 2026
Select a winch rated at least 1.
Full Answer
Select a winch rated at least 1.5 to 2 times the vehicle's gross vehicle weight for reliable recovery performance. For most light trucks and SUVs a 9k–12k lb winch is common; bigger vehicles require higher capacity.
Documented In This Build
Related Knowledge
How do I wire the winch safely to the battery?Can I mount the winch in a 2" receiver or do I need a special hitch?What maintenance should I do after installation?What torque should I use on the driveshaft flange bolts?Can I use an F100 driveshaft in my '65 Mustang?What size U-joints do I need?How do I determine the correct driveshaft length?Do I need new U-joints when installing an aluminum driveshaft?
Related Parts
Electric Winch (12V, ~10k-12k lb)
$450
Roller Fairlead (or hawse fairlead)
$40
Winch Mount Plate / Hitch Cradle (steel)
$120
Synthetic Winch Rope (or steel cable)
$150
Grade 8 Mounting Bolts & Hardware Kit
$20
Hitch-mounted winch cradle/adapter (if not fabricating)
$100
Shackles / D-rings (pair)
$40
Hitch Pin & Lock
$25
Winch Hook / Soft Shackle
$20
Paint / Rust Preventative (spray)
$15
Winch Wiring Kit (battery cables, inline fuse/portable solenoid/contactor, remote lead)
$80
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Torque Wrench
Jack Stands / Floor Jack
Multimeter
MIG Welder (or TIG/Stick as available)
Drill & Metal Drill Bits
Impact Wrench / Ratchet and Socket Set
Wire Crimper / Cutters, Heat Shrink
Clamps & Measuring Tape / Marker
Personal Protective Equipment (gloves, welding helmet, eye protection)
Angle Grinder (cutting and grinding discs)
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