Weld-On Winch

What it is

The Weld-On Winch mounts directly to the trailer frame rail for decks that have no C-channel or L-track system. Working load limit is 6,600 lb (3,000 kg). At 17.19 lb (7.8 kg) it is heavier than the sliding models, because the mounting bracket carries the load into the frame rather than into a track.

Fixed position — plan the layout first

Once welded, the winch cannot be repositioned. Work out anchor spacing before installation: The § 393.110 minimum tie-down count scales with article length, so plan the layout around the longest and heaviest load the trailer will carry, then add margin. Order one winch per anchor point.

Welding should be done by a qualified welder to the trailer manufacturer's frame specification.

Why a gear drive

Tensioning uses the same 22:1 worm gear as the sliding line, turned by a handle rather than a levered winch bar. Roughly 40 lb of force at the handle reaches working tension, and no bar enters the drum.

Patented mechanism

The two-stage clutch that makes this possible is protected by U.S. Patent No. 11,603,029 ("Winch for Securing a Load", granted 14 March 2023). The patented element is the clutch assembly between the drum and the gear: in one configuration the gear is locked to the drum so the worm drives it, and in the other the drum spins free of the gear entirely — which is what lets you pay strap in or out by hand instead of cranking it through a 22:1 reduction.

Cargo securement

Functions as a tie-down anchor under 49 CFR 393.104 and the general securement rule at 49 CFR 393.106, contributing its full 6,600 lb rating to the § 393.106(d) aggregate requirement.

Service and inspection

Grease with Showa Shell Alvania RA-J (−40 °F to 266 °F) or Valvoline Full Synthetic Moly Fortified. Keep tensioning force below 2.5 tons. Inspect welds and straps on a regular cycle.