Winches 1x1: Everything you need to know about the electric winch

The winch is more than just a useful tool — it was the first product from horntools and has always been the heart of our range. As experienced experts in the field of off-road and overlanding accessories, we know that a reliable winch is often the decisive factor when it comes to freeing your vehicle from extreme terrain. In this magazine article, we give you a comprehensive overview of all the important aspects of the winch — from the right selection to safe use and optimal care.

Electric winches are powerful mechanical devices powered by an engine to pull or lift heavy loads. They consist of a sturdy rope wound around a drum and are often used in off-road and overlanding situations to extricate vehicles from difficult terrain. Especially on steep, muddy or impassable terrain, winches are indispensable for safely recovering yourself or other vehicles, thus avoiding breakdowns or prolonged downtime.

How to make the right choice

Several factors play a decisive role when choosing the right winch. First, you should consider the pulling force: This should be at least 1.5 to 2 times the mass of your vehicle when it is ready to travel. This factor is particularly important so that the winch has enough power to recover your vehicle safely and effectively, even in extreme conditions such as steep or muddy terrain.

Another thing to consider is the voltage. There is a choice between 12V and 24V models: 12V winches are more common and suitable for smaller to medium-sized vehicles, while 24V winches offer higher power and faster working speed, making them ideal for larger, heavier vehicles.

In addition to pulling power, the choice of rope material is a key factor. Steel ropes are known for their strength and durability, especially in harsh conditions. However, they are heavier and more prone to rust, so they require regular maintenance and greasing. On the other hand, synthetic ropes offer advantages such as being lighter and safer in the event of breakage, as they have less risk of kickback. Synthetic ropes are also easier to handle and less prone to corrosion, but also require regular maintenance to maximize their lifespan. Both types of rope have their advantages and disadvantages, so you should make your choice based on the specific needs of your vehicle and your usage conditions.

🔎 We know how difficult it can be to choose the right winch. So take a look at our winch finder to find exactly the model that suits your needs.

Safe use of the winch: installation, connection and use

When using an electric winch, there are a few important points to consider to ensure a safe operation. First, you must make sure that the installation location can handle the pulling forces of the winch. The winch should always be mounted on a sturdy steel frame that is perfectly aligned in horizontal and vertical directions. The electrical connection of the winch should be carried out by a professional to ensure that everything is connected correctly and safely. For detailed step-by-step instructions and additional tips for safe use, you will find all the necessary information in the user manual that comes with your horntools winch.

When (self-)rescuing, the correct use of the electric winch is crucial. First, make sure that the winch is correctly positioned and the guide is free of obstructions. Use the winch ring to make optimal use of the pulling force and to distribute the load evenly. Make sure that the is correctly wound on the drum to prevent tangling. During use, you should always monitor the cable tension and ensure that the vehicle is not overloaded. Always wear protective gloves and keep the area around the winch free of people to avoid injuries from rope breakage or sudden movements. When performing a self-rescue, it is also helpful to use an extension rope or a tree strap for attachment in order to gain additional flexibility and stability. You can read about the 5 must-haves for your rescue in this magazine article.

⚠️ Note: Before each use, it is important to check that all components of the winch, such as rope, pulleys and fastenings, are in perfect condition.

Top 3 winch accessories

With the right winch accessories, you can optimize the performance of your winch and expand its possible uses.

Winch Rings	The pulley allows the direction of the rope to be adjusted and thus overcome difficult rescue situations by optimizing the angle and reducing the force on the rope.
Soft shackle	Shackles function as a secure connecting element between the winch, rope and other components. They are perfect in combination with the pulley.
Rescue and plastic ropes	Recovery and synthetic ropes serve as flexible connecting elements that transmit tensile and load forces. In off-road applications, they are used for vehicle recovery.

👉 Here you can find other suitable accessories for your winch.

Care and maintenance: How to keep your winch in top shape

Proper care and maintenance of your electric winch is critical to its long-term performance and safety. Start by regularly checking the tightness of mounting bolts and electrical connections. Remove any dirt or rust and keep the unit clean at all times. If the chrome steel parts become oxidized, gently clean them with scotch or fine sandpaper. Damaged powder coatings should be repaired to prevent further flaking. Grease all electrical contacts, especially the remote control plug, with commercial terminal grease to prevent corrosion.

Ropes are also important maintenance components: synthetic ropes should be impregnated and cleaned with a mild soap solution every 6 months or after 30 winching operations. Steel ropes require a grease treatment every 2 months or after 30 winching operations and should always be wound up in the correct position. Defective ropes — whether plastic or steel — must be replaced immediately as they can pose a safety risk when in use. If your winch is frequently exposed to water and salt, it is recommended that you have regular professional maintenance carried out by an authorized service center. For more detailed information, refer to your winch user manual.

🎓 For in-depth knowledge and practical applications, we and our partners offer special workshops that give you comprehensive insights into the operation and maintenance of winches. In our training courses, you will not only learn how to optimally use and maintain your electric winch, but also how to master various scenarios and challenges in off-road and recovery operations.

 

Winches are an essential tool for all off-road and overlanding adventures, and knowing how to select, use and maintain them correctly can make the difference between a successful operation and a failed recovery attempt. By familiarizing yourself with the basic aspects of winching and performing regular maintenance, you can ensure that your equipment is always in perfect condition and working reliably. Use the resources available, from our winch finder to the user manual and specialized workshops, to prepare yourself as best you can. This way, you will be well equipped to overcome any challenge on your off-road adventures and arrive safely at your destination.