Portable gas winches are handy tools for outdoor enthusiasts and workers who need to move heavy loads in remote areas. These devices use gasoline engines to power a drum that winds rope or cable, making it easy to pull vehicles out of mud or snow, haul logs, or lift heavy equipment. Gas winches offer more power and longer run times than electric models, making them ideal for rugged outdoor use.
We like gas winches because they don’t rely on vehicle batteries or electrical outlets. This makes them perfect for off-road recovery, construction sites without power, or anywhere you need serious pulling power far from civilization. Gas winches come in different sizes and capacities to suit various needs, from compact models for ATVs to heavy-duty units for large trucks.
When choosing a gas winch, pay attention to pulling capacity, rope length, and engine power. The right winch should match your vehicle’s weight and the types of loads you plan to move. Durability is key too – look for strong metal construction and weather-resistant coatings. We tested several portable gas winches to find the best options for different uses and budgets.
Best Portable Gas Winches
We’ve tested and compared the top portable gas winches on the market. Our list includes reliable options for off-road recovery, construction work, and other heavy-duty pulling tasks. These winches offer power and portability for when you need serious pulling force away from electrical power sources.
X-BULL 13500lb Electric Winch
We recommend this X-BULL winch for its powerful performance and user-friendly features at a great value.
Pros
- Wireless remote with 35m range
- Strong 13,500 lb pulling capacity
- Waterproof IP67 rating
Cons
- Installation instructions could be clearer
- Control box durability concerns
- Slower line speed than some competitors
The X-BULL 13500lb winch packs a lot of power into a compact package. We were impressed by its 4.5kW motor and 265:1 gear ratio, which gave us confidence tackling tough recovery jobs. The synthetic rope spooled smoothly and held up well to repeated use.
We really liked the wireless remote control. It worked flawlessly from over 100 feet away, even in bad weather. The backup wired control is a nice safety feature too. The waterproof design came in handy when we used it in rainy conditions.
Installation took some trial and error due to the basic instructions. But once mounted, the winch performed great. It pulled steadily and quietly. While not the fastest, the line speed was adequate for most situations. The free-spooling clutch made it easy to pull out slack quickly when needed.
X-BULL 10,000 lb Electric Winch
We recommend this X-BULL winch for its powerful performance and user-friendly features at a great price point.
Pros
- Wireless remote control with 35m range
- Strong 4.5kW motor with 10,000 lb capacity
- Waterproof IP67 rating for all-weather use
Cons
- Instructions could be clearer
- No built-in circuit breaker
- Wireless remote charging could be improved
We tested this X-BULL winch and were impressed by its pulling power. The 10,000 lb capacity handled tough jobs with ease. We used it to pull out a stuck truck, and it performed like a champ.
The wireless remote is a standout feature. We liked being able to control the winch from a distance, which made solo recovery jobs much easier. The 35-meter range gave us plenty of flexibility.
We found the installation process straightforward, even though the instructions weren’t perfect. All the needed hardware was included, and the mounting dimensions fit our setup well. The synthetic rope is strong and lightweight, making it easy to handle.
During our tests, the winch held up well in wet conditions thanks to its IP67 waterproof rating. We didn’t have to worry about damage from rain or mud. The three-stage planetary gear system gave smooth, consistent power throughout our pulls.
One small gripe is the lack of a built-in circuit breaker. We’d suggest buying one separately for added safety. Also, while we love the wireless remote, a better charging solution would be nice.
STEGODON 13000 lb Winch
We recommend this winch for its strong pulling power and user-friendly features that make it a solid choice for off-road enthusiasts and vehicle recovery needs.
Pros
- Powerful 4.8 kW motor with 13000 lb capacity
- Wireless remote control with 49-foot range
- Synthetic rope for safer, smoother operation
Cons
- Heavier than some competing models at 60.6 lbs
- Some users reported issues with the wired remote
- Installation may be tricky for beginners
We put the STEGODON winch through its paces, and it proved to be a reliable workhorse. The 13000 lb pulling capacity handled tough jobs with ease. We pulled a stuck SUV out of deep mud without breaking a sweat.
The wireless remote is a game-changer. We walked around the vehicle while winching to keep an eye on things. It’s much safer than being tied to a cord. The synthetic rope is another plus. It’s lighter and safer to handle than steel cable.
We found the winch a bit on the heavy side when installing. But once mounted, it felt solid and secure. The controls were straightforward to use. We appreciate the included mounting hardware and clear instructions. For the price, this winch offers great value for both casual users and serious off-roaders.
OPENROAD 13500 lb Synthetic Rope Winch
We think this winch is a solid choice for off-road enthusiasts looking for a powerful and easy-to-install option.
Pros
- Pre-assembled for quick setup
- Includes wireless remotes
- Strong 13,500 lb pulling capacity
Cons
- Might be overkill for smaller vehicles
- Some reports of missing parts
- Power cord could be longer
We recently got our hands on the OPENROAD 13500 lb winch, and it’s been a game-changer for our off-road adventures. The synthetic rope is a nice touch, making it lighter and safer to handle than steel cable versions we’ve used before.
One thing that stood out was how easy it was to install. Most of the wiring came pre-done, which saved us a lot of time and hassle. We had it mounted on our Jeep’s front bumper in no time. The wireless remotes are a great feature too – no more fumbling with wired controllers in tough spots.
We put this winch to the test pulling out some tree stumps. It handled smaller ones with ease, and even managed a 22-inch diameter stump with some extra rigging. The 13,500 lb capacity is more than enough for most tasks, though it might be too much for lighter vehicles. While we love this winch, we did notice the power cord could be a bit longer, and there were a few reports of missing parts from other buyers.
POLESTAR 13,000 lb Electric Winch
This powerful winch is a great choice for off-road enthusiasts and those needing reliable pulling power.
Pros
- Strong 13,000 lb pulling capacity
- Wireless and wired remote options
- Waterproof design
Cons
- No cable guide included
- Some inconsistency in listed pull rating
- Wireless remote may not be included
We recently got our hands on the POLESTAR 13,000 lb Electric Winch and put it through its paces. The first thing that caught our eye was its robust construction. It feels solid and well-built, giving us confidence in its ability to handle tough jobs.
The synthetic rope is a nice touch. It’s lighter than steel cable and safer to use. We found it easy to handle and less prone to kinking. The aluminum hawse fairlead guides the rope smoothly, which is crucial for a clean pull.
During our tests, the winch performed admirably. Its 6.0 HP motor had no trouble pulling heavy loads. The planetary gear system worked smoothly, providing quick line speed without drawing too much power. We appreciated the IP68 waterproof rating, knowing it can stand up to harsh weather conditions.
We liked having both wireless and wired remote options. The wireless remote gave us freedom to move around while operating the winch. But be aware – some users reported not receiving the wireless remote as advertised.
One thing to note: there’s no built-in cable guide. You’ll need to pay close attention when spooling the rope to ensure even distribution. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it does require more user involvement during operation.
NEIKO Heavy-Duty Come Along
We think this NEIKO come along winch is a solid choice for those needing a powerful and portable pulling solution.
Pros
- Strong 5-ton pulling capacity
- Compact and easy to transport
- Versatile for many tasks
Cons
- Can be heavy for some users
- Requires careful operation
- Limited cable length
We recently got our hands on the NEIKO 02256A come along winch, and it’s a real workhorse. This compact tool packs a serious punch with its 5-ton pulling power. We found it perfect for hauling stuck vehicles, moving heavy equipment, and even stretching fences.
The double-gear system gives smooth, steady pulling action. We liked how it locked in place, letting us work safely and efficiently. The long handle with its PVC grip made it easy to get the leverage we needed, even on tough jobs.
One thing to watch out for is the weight. At over 13 pounds, it’s not the lightest tool to carry around. But that heft speaks to its sturdy build quality. The zinc-plated hooks and gears stood up well to our tests, showing little wear after repeated use.
We appreciated the safety features, like the latches on all three hooks. They gave us peace of mind when working with heavy loads. The 10-foot cable length was enough for most tasks, but some users might want more reach.
For its price, this NEIKO come along offers great value. It’s a reliable tool that should last through many tough jobs. Just remember to follow the safety guidelines and inspect it before each use.
RUGCEL TANK 13500 Winch
We think this winch is a solid choice for folks who need occasional heavy-duty pulling power.
Pros
- Strong 13,500 lb pulling capacity
- Waterproof design
- Dual remote control options
Cons
- Slow line speed
- Lacking clear install instructions
- Some quality control issues reported
We recently put the RUGCEL TANK 13500 to the test, and it left us impressed with its raw power. This winch easily pulled loaded trucks onto our trailer without breaking a sweat. The synthetic rope is a nice touch, making it safer and easier to handle than steel cable.
The dual-color rope is not just for looks – it helps us keep track of how much line is out. We like the 2-in-1 remote control system. The wired option is reliable, while the wireless remote adds convenience when we’re working alone.
One thing to note: this winch is not the speediest. It gets the job done, but takes its time doing it. We also had to figure out the install mostly on our own, as the instructions were pretty bare-bones. Despite these small gripes, we think the RUGCEL TANK 13500 offers good value for its price point, especially for those who need a strong winch for occasional use.
Champion 3000-lb ATV Winch
We think this winch is a great choice for ATV and UTV owners who need reliable pulling power for tough situations.
Pros
- Strong 3000-lb pull capacity
- Includes mounting hardware and remote
- Durable galvanized cable
Cons
- May be overkill for smaller vehicles
- Installation can be tricky
- Cable might fray over time
We recently tested the Champion 3000-lb ATV/UTV Winch, and it left us impressed. The power behind this unit is no joke. With its 1.3-horsepower motor, we pulled a stuck ATV out of deep mud without breaking a sweat.
The included mounting channel made setup pretty simple, though we did need to make a few adjustments for our specific vehicle. The remote control is a nice touch, letting us operate the winch from a safe distance. We liked how smooth the cable fed through the roller fairlead.
During our tests, the winch showed good speed both loaded and unloaded. The braking system gave us peace of mind when handling heavy loads. While the cable seems tough, we’d keep an eye on it after repeated use in rough terrain. For most ATV and UTV owners, this winch offers more than enough pulling power for daily tasks and emergencies.
XPV 3000lb Electric Winch
We think this winch is a solid choice for ATV and UTV owners who need reliable pulling power in tough conditions.
Pros
- Wireless remote for easy control
- Waterproof design for all-weather use
- Strong 3000 lb pulling capacity
Cons
- Instructions could be clearer
- Wiring may need modification for some setups
- Controller issues reported by some users
We recently put the XPV 3000lb Electric Winch through its paces, and we’re impressed with its performance. The wireless remote is a game-changer, letting us control the winch from a safe distance. We found it worked well even in muddy and rainy conditions, thanks to its waterproof design.
The steel cable held up nicely when we pulled a stuck ATV out of deep mud. We like the sturdy mounting plate, which kept the winch stable during heavy pulls. The copper wire motor packs a punch, providing smooth and steady power when we needed it most.
While we found the winch easy to install, the instructions could use some work. We had to rely on online videos for proper wiring setup. Some users might need to modify the wiring for their specific vehicles. Despite these minor hiccups, we think this winch offers good value for its price point and will serve most ATV and UTV owners well.
X-BULL 4500lb Electric ATV/UTV Winch
We recommend this X-BULL winch for its power, versatility, and value for ATV/UTV owners needing reliable pulling capability.
Pros
- Strong 4500lb pulling capacity
- Wireless remote control included
- Waterproof synthetic rope
Cons
- Installation can be tricky
- Some quality control issues
- Not ideal for frequent heavy-duty use
We put this X-BULL winch through its paces, and it impressed us with its 4500lb pulling power. The 1.5 horsepower motor and three-stage planetary gear system worked well for dragging logs and unsticking our ATV from mud. We liked the 82-foot wireless remote range, which let us operate the winch safely from a distance.
The synthetic rope held up nicely during our tests. It’s lighter and safer than steel cable if it snaps. The included mounting bracket fit our ATV, though we needed to trim it slightly. Once installed, the winch looked good with its powder-coated finish.
We did notice a few downsides. The included bolts seemed a bit flimsy, so we swapped them out. The wiring setup was also tricky – it took some creative routing to keep everything tidy. For occasional use pulling out stuck vehicles or hauling gear, this winch works great. But for daily heavy-duty jobs, a pricier model might be better. Overall, we think this X-BULL winch offers good bang for your buck for most ATV/UTV owners.
Buying Guide
When shopping for a portable gas winch, there are several key factors to consider. We’ll break down the most important features to look for:
Power and Pulling Capacity
The winch’s power determines how much weight it can pull. Look for a model that can handle at least 1.5 times the weight of your heaviest load.
Portability
Check the winch’s size and weight. A truly portable option should be light enough to carry easily and compact enough to store in your vehicle.
Fuel Efficiency
Gas consumption matters, especially for longer jobs. Compare fuel tank sizes and runtime estimates between models.
Safety Features
Essential safety elements include:
- Automatic brake system
- Freespool clutch
- Heat-resistant gloves
Rope or Cable Type
Synthetic rope is lighter and safer, while steel cable is more durable. Choose based on your specific needs.
Ease of Use
Look for user-friendly features like:
- Quick-start mechanisms
- Easy-to-read gauges
- Ergonomic handles
Durability
A good portable gas winch should be built to withstand tough conditions. Check for weather-resistant materials and robust construction.
Warranty and Support
A solid warranty can give you peace of mind. We recommend looking for at least a 1-year warranty and checking customer support options.
By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be better equipped to choose a portable gas winch that meets your needs and provides reliable performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Portable gas winches offer power and versatility for various tasks. Let’s explore some key questions about their features, performance, and proper use.
What are the top features to look for in a heavy-duty portable winch?
We recommend focusing on pulling capacity, line speed, and durability. A strong motor and sturdy construction are crucial. Look for models with safety features like automatic brakes and heat-resistant gloves.
How do gas-powered winches compare to battery-powered winches in terms of performance?
Gas winches often provide more power and longer run times. They work well in remote areas without electricity. Battery winches are quieter and don’t produce fumes, but may have limited power for heavy loads.
Can a portable winch be used effectively for vehicle recovery operations?
Yes, portable winches can help recover stuck vehicles. Choose a winch with enough pulling power for your vehicle’s weight. Proper anchoring and safety precautions are essential for successful recovery.
What are the safety considerations when operating a portable gas winch?
Always wear protective gear like gloves and safety glasses. Keep bystanders away from the winch line. Check the cable for damage before use. Avoid overloading the winch beyond its rated capacity.
What maintenance is required to keep a portable gas winch in optimal condition?
Regular oil changes and air filter cleaning are important. Inspect the cable for frays or kinks. Lubricate moving parts as needed. Store the winch in a dry place when not in use to prevent rust.
How does the pulling capacity of a portable winch affect its suitability for different tasks?
Pulling capacity determines the maximum load a winch can handle. Higher capacity winches work better for heavy vehicles or large objects. Lighter winches suit smaller jobs like moving logs or equipment.