Bolt-On Winches

Bolt-On Portable Trailer Winches

Bolt-on winches offer the same functionality as a weld-on winch with the added benefit of portability. Because you use heavy-duty bolts to hold the winches in place, you can adjust their placement depending on the type of load you are carrying. Designed for easy mounting and removal, these winches give you the ability to adapt your trailer setup as your loads change.

This type of winch is ideal for customers that carry a couple of different kinds of loads regularly. Since you'll need to drill holes in your trailer rail for each placement, if you're looking for a winch you can move more easily, check out our selection of sliding winches.

What Are Bolt-On Winches?

A bolt-on winch is a flatbed trailer winch that attaches directly to the trailer using bolts instead of welding. This design allows the winch to be installed, removed, or repositioned as needed.

Compared to permanent options, portable winch mounts provide a number of benefits:

• Flexibility to adjust winch placement
• Easier installation without specialized welding
• Simplified replacement or upgrades

For operations that require adaptability, a bolt on winch offers a practical and efficient cargo securement solution.

Types of Bolt-On Winches

While all bolt-on winches share a removable mounting style, different designs support a range of applications.

Standard

The most common style, designed for general flatbed use and mounted to the bottom of the trailer frame. These provide dependable performance and a solid strap storage capacity for everyday hauling needs.

Low Profile

These winches are designed with reduced height, making them ideal for trailers where clearance is limited or where minimizing obstruction is important. They are mounted on the side of the trailer, making them perfect for applications where the trailer is too low to the ground to accommodate a bottom-mount standard winch.

Lashing Winches

Designed to be either bolt-on or weld-on, these winches work with 2" straps and are popular for hoop buildings and car tie downs.

FAQs About Bolt-On Winches

Q: What is a bolt-on winch?

A: They are a trailer winch that is mounted using bolts, allowing it to be installed or removed without welding.

Q: How is a bolt-on winch different from a weld-on winch?

A: They can be repositioned or replaced easily, while weld-on winches are permanently fixed to the trailer. For maximum flexibility, check out sliding winches.

Q: Can I install a bolt on winch myself?

A: Yes. Most can be installed with standard tools, making them a convenient option for many operators.

Q: What types of loads are bolt on winches best for?

A: They are ideal for operations that require flexibility, including mixed or changing cargo types.

Q: Can bolt on winches be moved after installation?

A: Yes. One of the main advantages is the ability to remove and reposition it as needed.

Q: Do bolt on winches require maintenance?

A: Yes. Regularly check bolts for tightness and inspect the winch for wear or corrosion to ensure safe operation.

Questions?

If you aren't sure if a bolt-on winch is right for you, get in touch with our team of product experts!

And don't forget to check out the rest of our trailer tie down systems - we carry winch straps, winch bars, corner protectors, and more!