Four Disadvantages of a Hydraulic Winch

The hydraulic winch was introduced in order to compete with winches powered by electricity. However, these winches have numerous disadvantages when compared to the electric variety. Some of these disadvantages include braking, speed, and steering. This article will discuss some of the disadvantages of a hydraulic winch.

Braking

One of the first disadvantages of a hydraulic winch deals with braking. These winches use the power steering pump in order to get hydraulic power. The winch will have to share the pump pressure with your brakes and steering. If you need to have your foot on the brake, the hydraulic winch will not be able to get power. This is a serious disadvantage when you need to anchor yourself by using the brake. In addition to being unable to brake, it will also take a longer time to operate the winch.

Speed

Another disadvantage of a hydraulic winch is the line speed. Electric winch is faster than the hydraulic variety, especially with little to no loads on the winch. A hydraulic winch will maintain a steady but slower line speed no matter what load it has. Besides the reduced line speed, you will also encounter problems if you are unable to have your engine running while operating the winch.

Engine

One of the biggest disadvantages of a hydraulic winch is that the engine has to be running in order for it to work. You won't have to have your engine running for winches powered by electricity to work. If you have a hydraulic winch, you won't be able to use it if you are having engine trouble. In addition to having to run the engine, you also wont' be able to steer very well while using the winch.

Steering

One of the final disadvantages of a hydraulic winch is steering. As mentioned earlier, these winches use the power steering pump in order to get hydraulic power, so you won't be able to use your brakes. While using a hydraulic winch, you will also have a reduced ability to steer your vehicle.

These are some of the disadvantages of using a hydraulic winch instead of one powered by electricity. You will not be able to use your brakes and the winch at the same time, so you will have a problem when you need to anchor yourself by using the brake. A hydraulic winch is also considerably slower than the electric variety.