Winch-zilla: Strap or cable?

[gdeangel]

Based on material strength, I always thought galvanized cable would have more pulling power than a strap (not considering load torsion and shear forces, just straight up tensile strength) .

I was poking around on the forums here for ideas about my persistent difficulty winching up, and it seems like perhaps the right strap would actually be stronger, or at least more durable than cable.... yes or no?

Are folks here with ~20' boats using 3" strap, 2 1/2" strap, cable, or other for regular trailering?

 

[Bamaman1]

Re: Winch-zilla: Strap or cable?

We mostly see straps now. The cables have a tendency to not wrap around the winch barrel uniformly. But I would think either will perform well within the limitations of a hand crank winch.

 

[GA_Boater]

Re: Winch-zilla: Strap or cable?

If you're having trouble winching the boat onto the trailer, a different cable or strap won't make any difference. What difficulties are you having?

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Winch-zilla: Strap or cable?

With cable, you can use a single reduction pulley and hook at the bow eye and winching will take half the effort--twice as long but half the effort. Can't do that with straps. That's why I still have cable on my power winch.