Double L vs. C Channel Winch Track: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve decided that sliding winches are the way to go, the next step is picking your winch track profile. US Cargo Control offers two profiles: Double L track and C Channel track. The track you choose determines the type of sliding winches you’ll need, since sliding winches are built for their specific track type and aren't interchangeable. So, what’s the difference between the profiles, and which one do you need?
The real difference comes down to how the winch connects to the rail. C Channel track has a C-shaped profile, and the winch contacts the rail at the edges. Double L track has two L-shaped indents, so the winch engages at more points along the rail. Both have the same strength when the winch is properly locked in. What changes is how they feel in daily use: tightness of the winch fit, weight of the track, and movement of winches along the track
Here’s how they stack up:
C Channel Track |
Double L Track |
|
| Profile |
 |
 |
|
Winch Contact |
 |
 |
|
Fit |
Standard | Snug with less lateral movement |
|
Materials |
Steel or Aluminum | Aluminum |
|
Weight |
20 to 38 lbs. | 13 lbs. |
C Channel Winch Track
C Channel is the most common winch track and is compatible with sliding C track winches. The winch slides along the C-shaped channel until you apply tension to lock it down. The fit allows for a bit more play than Double L, which is useful if you reposition winches often.
C Channel winch track is available in two material options: Steel and aluminum. Steel track is heavier at 38 lbs. per 6’ track, and it’s the most budget-friendly. Aluminum comes in at 20 lbs. per 6’ track.
US Cargo Control offers two compatible winches – 4” Standard Sliding C Track Winch and the 4” Low Profile Sliding C Track Winch. The standard version holds up to 50 ft. of excess webbing, so it is a better choice if you run longer straps.
Double L Winch Track
Double L track gives the winch more contact with the rail. The result is a snugger fit between winch and track that reduces lateral movement better than C track. The tradeoff is that Double L winches can jam more easily, especially if you’re moving winches around often.
The aluminum Double L track is the lightest at 13 lbs. per 6’ rail, a great option if you’re concerned about trailer weight. It pairs with the 4” Standard Sliding Double L Winch and the 4” Low Profile Double L Winch. The standard winch holds up to 20’ of excess webbing, so you’ll store less on the winch than with the C version.
Already Have Track on Your Trailer?
If you have track already installed on your trailer, you’ll want to match the winch to your track profile. To identify which profile you have, look at your rail’s cross section. C channel has a C-shaped channel. Double L has two L-shaped slots along the top.
Choosing Track for a New Trailer
If you’re starting fresh on a trailer without any track installed, consider the following factors:
-
How often you move your winches.
- C channel is better if you plan to move them regularly, as it is more forgiving and less prone to jams.
- Double L is better if you plan to move them infrequently, as it offers a tighter fit.
- How concerned you are about your trailer weight.
- If you’re very concerned, choose Double L. It is the lightest weight option at 13 lbs.
- If you’re not concerned, steel C channel track is a more affordable, heavy-duty option.
- How much strap you need to store on the winch.
- If you like to store more than 20’ of strap on the winch, C Channel is the best option.
- If you like to store less than 20’ of strap on the winch, Double L track is a great choice.
Track is sold in 6’ sections. Weld quality determines how well the track performs, so make sure to have it installed by a qualified professional. Whatever track profile you choose, make sure to keep the rail clean. Mud, road debris, and ice can gum up the track and make sliding difficult.
Winch Track FAQs
Can I use a C track winch on Double L track, or the other way around?
No. Each sliding winch is built for one track profile.
What's the difference between C channel and Double L winch track?
The shape of the rail and how the winch contacts it. C channel touches along the edges. Double L engages the winch at more contact points, which makes it more stable.
Is Double L track stronger than C channel?
No. The strength of winch track is determined by the quality of the installation. Both C channel and Double L winch track winches have a 5,500 lb. working load limit when correctly locked into the corresponding track. Double L adds contact points between the winch and track for a steadier fit.
Is steel or aluminum winch track better?
It depends on your trailer and how much weight matters to you. A 6' steel C channel section is 38 lbs. Aluminum C channel is 20 lbs. Aluminum Double L is 13 lbs.
How do I know which track I have?
Look at the rail’s cross section. C channel is a single C-shaped channel. Double L has two L-shaped slots along the top of the rail.
Why does my sliding winch stick in the track?
Grit, mud, and ice are the usual suspects. A snug-fitting track can also jam more if you move winches often, so clean the rail regularly.
How much webbing can a sliding winch hold?
It depends on the winch. The standard sliding C track winch holds up to 50 ft of excess webbing, and the standard sliding Double L holds up to 20 ft.
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