Why won't a tow strap work on winch?

[LongLine]

So I looked at at tow strap max rated for 8500# & working load rated for 2830# for $7 and can't think why it won't work as the winch strap on my trailer. Boat only weighs approx 2300 with gas & fishing gear. The one that came on the winch broke end of last year about a foot from the hook. Anyone think of a reason it wouldn't work just as well as any trailer winch strap?

Tom B.
(LongLine)

 

[Outsider]

Re: Why won't a tow strap work on winch?

Bulk? Hook attachment? Sunlight is a killer on nylon straps. I turn mine over every year and have a winch cover that extends over the strap ...

 

[JB]

Re: Why won't a tow strap work on winch?

Length??

 

[JimS123]

Re: Why won't a tow strap work on winch?

It won't possibly work because its too thick. Sure, its strong enough, but by the time you shorten it enough that it'll fit on the spool it will be way too short.

 

[642mx]

Re: Why won't a tow strap work on winch?

I would think that a tow strap would want to stretch and be a pain to deal with. You can buy the correct strap for about $20 online and you won't have to worry about if it will work or not.

Here's a decent one: http://www.autopartsdealer.com/trailer_winch_strap-p791680-p.html?utm_source=froogle&utm_medium=cse&utm_campaign=noaup&utm_content=rank

 

[H20Rat]

Re: Why won't a tow strap work on winch?

I would think that a tow strap would want to stretch and be a pain to deal with.

That is the reason right there... Tow straps are meant to be stretchy to absorb shock. A winch strap needs to be the absolute opposite, as little stretch as possible. A stretchy winch strap is a disaster waiting to happen when it fails!

 

[Alpheus]

Re: Why won't a tow strap work on winch?

I used one of these for years with no problems...

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200337475_200337475

 

[lncoop]

Re: Why won't a tow strap work on winch?

Also, tow straps are stiffer and bulkier and don't roll up as tightly. Kinda reminds me of a girl I used to date..........

 

[tswiczko]

Re: Why won't a tow strap work on winch?

What Coop, Did you date a girl who wasn't wound too tight.

I'm not saying it won't work.. I am saying it won't work as well as the proper equipment...and could cause harm to you, your boat or other people and their property.

I would buy the right part if thats what you're asking

 

[LongLine]

Re: Why won't a tow strap work on winch?

Thanx guys. I didn't think about the stretch or bulkiness factors. They could be a problem.

Tom B.
(LongLine)

 

[robert graham]

Re: Why won't a tow strap work on winch?

Yeah, sorta stiff and bulky,like that girl he used to date!....that's funny!!!

 

[fishrdan]

Re: Why won't a tow strap work on winch?

The one that came on the winch broke end of last year about a foot from the hook.

I had that happen at the launch ramp once... I cut the strap off the hook, cut off the sun rotted section of strap, slipped the hook up the strap about 12",,,, then made an overhand knot. I used the overhand knot strap for several years, no problems at all with the knot after it cinched down tight.

 

[Lion hunter]

Re: Why won't a tow strap work on winch?

Even if you use the best knot for webbing (water knot) it loses about 30% of the strength. A normal overhand knot is about 60% loss. So knot are not recommended, even though a lot of us have used them in a pinch. Wally world sells replacement winch webbing.

 

[jeeperman]

Re: Why won't a tow strap work on winch?

I think the major difference is stretchyness and UV protection.
A tow strap wont have good UV protection if any since it is not intended to be outside 24/7.

A tow strap tends to be the thin strap whereas a snatch strap is bulky and more stiff.

If it has hooks, it is a tow strap and never use it as a snatch strap which should always have loop ends.

 

[sea_goin_dude]

Re: Why won't a tow strap work on winch?

The winchs that 4wheel offroaders are using now are not steel cables. Check with your local offroad shop for the new fiber winch cables. They are super strong and uv protected. Should come in different lengths so you should have a good choice. True tow straps need to stretch and lift straps do not stretch. I'd go with the new fiber winch cables.