110v to dc conterter question

[CigarGuy]

I'm looking at buying a 12v atv winch and I want to use it for other things. I don't want to haul a battery around and was wondering if a 110v to dc converter would work for this application??? Thanks......

[Jim Almquist]

I think you would be fine if lifting light stuff. If your lifting something heavy the amount of amps you would draw may need a battery. Maybe connect it to a vex/marcum battery just to keep it portable.

[aanderud]

ATV winches I've seen will draw something like 10 amps pulling very little load, 30 amps pulling a 500 lbs load, and 80-100 amps pulling a 1500-2000 lb load.

I'm guessing a converter that can handle that kind of power draw is going to be expensive and not very lightweight. It might actually cost as much or more than just buying a reasonably capable 120v AC powered winch.

Also, remember that your winch has to be mounted to something (heavy) to be able to pull something else. All things considered, might be easier to just live with the battery.

[Whoaru99]

Yup, lots of current required.

Looked at a Warn 2000lb winch out of curiosity. Here's the load vs current draw.

0lb = 20A

500lb = 42A

1000lb = 64A

1500lb = 90A

2000lb = 123A

Even relatively small batteries can put out quite a bit of current for a short time so it's not like one has to lug around a group 31 deep cycle for short periods of operation.

A power supply of that capacity would be fairly expensive and likely heavier than a small to moderate-sized battery.

I think the biggest factor is how portable does it need to be. Carry a battery (or use jumper cables to the vehicle) or how readily available is AC power where you need it.

[CigarGuy]

oops, just noticed the typo! Thanks for the replies. Looks like I'll use a battery.

[pheasantpete]

Go with a Deep Cycle if you plan on using it for extended times without being charged. Forget that 7amp/hr Vexilar battery suggestion. It in no way can handle that amperage.

[CigarGuy]

Wasn't able to use it for what I intended, so, it's on the shelf for now.

[JeffB]

Battery charger