Winch wiring

anyone know what’s needed to install a winch and hook it up to a power switch?

Also I have an in/out switch from otrattw.net and was wondering if anyone knew how to wire that up. Thanks!!

 

What type of winch? They all wire stuff a little differently

 

Ensure the switch and the wire can handle the amps. A winch can easily draw 400 amps. Also ensure your battery is up to the task.

 

It’s a warn vr12s

 

I have a VR12s too, they are rated at 460amps, so I put one of these next to my battery to power the winch on and off. It’s rated up to 600amps (for 5 minutes) or 350amps (continuous) and it’s marine rated waterproof.

https://www.bluesea.com/products/9003e/e-Series_On_Off_Battery_Switch

They are ugly but work well for heavy amp requirements. Mine is mounted between the battery and the brake master cylinder on the empty threaded holes in the fender wall using heavy duty L brackets. I’ll post a pic later today.

Another option you may consider is using a heavy duty relay and turning it on and off with a small toggle switch in the cab. Be sure to get a relay that can handle up to 500 amps @12v or so...

 

Switch pics:

 

Thanks for the photos although I’d have to mount it somewhere else bc I have my fuses and relays in that position

 

You have options. Personally I’d wire it straight to the main battery. When you add switches and breakers you are increasing the power loss due to resistance.

As for the switch, find the wiring diagram of how the switch goes. Or open up the solenoid cover to see what wires you need to tap. Typically you’ll need a hot, winch in, and winch out. If you want lights on the switch to work then you’ll need a ground.

 

I have the switch lit up. I just need to find the ones to tap into I guess then. Thanks.