Winches

About this range

Our winch range runs from a compact 4,000lb TJM Torq ATV winch up to 12,000lb electric winches built for loaded dual cabs and wagons. We stock the TJM TORQ series and Bushranger's COVERT and REVO winches, in both synthetic rope and wire rope options, along with safety switches and vehicle specific winch option kits. As an authorised TJM stockist with a workshop in Burwood, Melbourne, we can ship your winch Australia-wide or fit and wire it in-store, tested before you drive out.

10 products

Buying guide

How to choose recovery gear

Recovery gear stores enormous energy when it's working, so the right ratings and the right attachment points matter more than anything else in the kit.

  1. Rated recovery points

    Only attach straps to rated recovery points. Never to a tow ball, tow bar, tie-down point or tow hook: that warning is required on every recovery strap sold in Australia.

  2. Strap strength

    A snatch strap's minimum breaking strength should be about 2 to 3 times the gross vehicle mass of the lighter vehicle. Wet straps are weaker.

  3. Winch size

    Choose a winch rated at least 1.5 times your vehicle's gross weight (Warn). Size it on the loaded vehicle, not the empty one.

  4. Shackles and dampers

    Use rated shackles (ARB says 3.25 t minimum for bow shackles), put a damper over the strap, and keep everyone back at least 1.5 times the strap's length (ARB).

Choosing the right winch

The usual rule of thumb is a winch rated to at least 1.5 times your vehicle's GVM. For most dual cab utes and 4x4 wagons that puts you in 9,500lb to 12,000lb territory, which is exactly where the TJM TORQ 9500 and 12000 and the Bushranger REVO 12,000lb sit. The 4,000lb TJM Torq ATV winch suits quads, side by sides and trailers, not a full size 4x4.

Rope choice matters. Synthetic rope is lighter, easier to handle and safer under load because it stores far less energy if it fails, but it needs to be kept clear of abrasion and checked regularly. Wire rope shrugs off rocks and rough drum wear but is heavier and demands gloves and more care when spooling. The Bushranger COVERT 10,000lb comes in both, so you can pick what suits how you tow and recover.

Finally, think about mounting and wiring. A winch needs a winch compatible bull bar or cradle, and some vehicles need a specific option kit, like the kit we stock for the 2016 Holden Colorado. Winches also pull serious current, so a healthy battery and an isolator such as the TJM TORQ safety switch are worth doing at the same time.

Related categories

Common questions

Can I use my tow ball as a recovery point?

No. The national recovery strap standard requires a warning never to attach straps to tow balls, tow bars, tie-down points or tow hooks. Use rated recovery points only.

What strap rating do I need?

A minimum breaking strength of around 2 to 3 times the gross vehicle mass of the lighter vehicle, under the recovery strap safety standard.

What size winch do I need?

At least 1.5 times your vehicle's gross weight (Warn), based on the loaded vehicle with all its accessories.

Snatch strap or kinetic rope?

Both stretch to store energy for a recovery. Whichever you use, it isn't for lifting or towing, and it must go between rated points with a damper draped over it.

What should be in a basic recovery kit?

A strap rated for your vehicle, rated shackles or soft shackles, a damper, gloves and recovery boards. A winch extension strap and tree trunk protector help if you have a winch.

Keep going

Recovery PointsRated points by vehicle20 in range Recovery KitsKits to start with8 in range StrapsSnatch straps and ropes13 in range Recovery Boards & TracksBoards and tracks13 in range