[Destroyer]

Originally Posted by wildtalk

In picture was an example how much it will fall back from being tight. and if you seen the size of the chain I have as a safty chain,, its probley much larger then I need and I always use because I dont trust my winch ,, it makes an clickingG sound when it fades back just the same as it makes when you tighten it . Getting a new winch ,, just wondering on what size I should get. Thanks for the input

Ok, if it's making a clicking sound the same as when you're pulling your boat onto your trailer I'd be willing to bet that the spring is broken or stretched, allowing the pawl to pop up under the force of the boat pulling against the cable. It might be as little as replacing the spring, but considering that a good winch can be had for under $30 I'd just go buy a new one. This way you're not playing games... you know that it's ok.

And for my money, I'd go with a steel cable, not a strap winch. You've got over a ton of boat pulling against that cable.. and I know that straps are safe, but I'd still go with a cable type. Just my opinion. As to size, I'd go with a 4000# cap.. overkill for sure, but I like overkill when talking about safety... and the difference in price is very little... go bigger, it's better.