Marine

Marine

The marine industry demands corrosion-resistant, heavy-duty equipment for boat launches, dock operations, and vessel recovery. Pierce Arrow Inc. offers hydraulic winches rated up to 50,000 lbs for hauling boats and barges, along with industrial electric winches for marina and shipyard use. Our Lodar wireless controls enable safe remote operation around water, and our full hydraulic component line supports custom marine equipment builds.

Hydraulic Winches

Marine operations demand high-capacity hydraulic winches for hauling boats onto trailers at ramps, pulling vessels in and out of dry dock, positioning barges, and anchoring in commercial operations. Hydraulic drive provides the sustained, high-load pulling power that marine environments demand — salt water, continuous duty, and loads that shift unpredictably as boats come out of the water. The range from 10,000 to 50,000 lbs covers everything from large recreational boat ramps to commercial marine yards. The narrow drum option fits tighter transoms and mounting spaces on marine trailers.

Electric Winches

Electric winches handle marine applications where hydraulic infrastructure isn’t practical — dock-side pulling, boat lift operations, and shore-based hauling. The 110V winch runs off standard marina power for stationary installations at docks and lifts. The 12,500 lb electric unit handles trailer-mounted and mobile applications where battery or generator power is available but hydraulic lines are not.

Controls & Remotes

Marine operators need to control equipment from a distance — standing on a dock while a boat winches onto a trailer, positioned at the bow while a lift operates, or on deck while shore-side equipment runs. Wireless remotes eliminate the need to be at the power unit during operation. The 10-function Lodar system handles the complex multi-circuit setups on commercial marine equipment where an operator needs to control winches, lifts, valves, and auxiliary functions from a single weatherproof transmitter.

Hydraulic Power Units

Hydraulic power units run the winches, lifts, and deck equipment used in marine operations. The 2-way power up / power down unit provides controlled operation in both directions — important when lowering boats on cradles or controlling descent on marine lifts where gravity alone could be dangerous. The 4-way pump handles multi-circuit setups common on commercial marine equipment, where winch, lift, and auxiliary functions all run off one power source.

Industrial Winches

The industrial hydraulic winch serves mid-range marine pulling duties — positioning boats in maintenance bays, pulling equipment along docks, and running anchor or mooring lines in smaller commercial marine operations. The industrial mount and drum configuration handles the horizontal pulling and positioning work that’s common in marina and boatyard operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What precautions should I take when pulling heavy loads?
Place a heavy blanket, jacket, or winch dampener over the wire rope during heavy pulls. If the rope snaps, the cloth can help absorb energy and reduce dangerous backlash. Ensure the item is thick, secure, and placed midway along the taut rope. This simple step protects you and others nearby during tasks like vehicle recovery or heavy towing.
How can I provide a safe anchor point while winching?
Use a D-ring or bow shackle rated for your winch’s pulling capacity with a tree trunk protector or similar anchor strap. Select a sturdy anchor like a healthy tree or vehicle tow point. Wrap the protector around the anchor, attach the shackle, and connect the winch cable. Ensure all gear is rated for the load and check connections before winching. This prevents equipment failure or injury during tasks like vehicle recovery.
How can I double my winch pulling capacity?
You can double your winch’s pulling capacity by using a snatch block, which is a pulley system that redirects the winch cable. Here’s how it works: Attach the snatch block to the load or a secure anchor point, then run the winch cable through the pulley and back to a fixed point, like the tow hook on your vehicle. This setup effectively halves the load on the winch by distributing it across two cable lines, allowing it to pull twice as much weight.
How much pulling power do I need from my winch?
Choose a winch with a pulling capacity at least 1.5 times your vehicle’s gross weight to handle obstacles like mud, snow, sand, water, or steep hills. For example, a 6,000-pound vehicle needs a winch rated for at least 9,000 pounds. This ensures enough power for safe recovery in tough conditions without overloading the winch.
How do I secure a load with my winch?
Use ratchet straps or tie-downs to secure a load safely. Winches are not suitable for tying down loads, as constant movement or vibration can damage their gears. Choose high-quality ratchet straps rated for the load’s weight and attach them to secure anchor points on your vehicle or trailer. Check straps for wear and ensure they’re tight to prevent shifting during transport.
What maintenance is required on my winch?
Regular maintenance extends your winch’s life. Lubricate all grease points, tighten bolts, and inspect electrical connections, especially at the battery, for corrosion or loose fittings. Check the wire rope for wear, flat spots, or broken strands; replace if damaged. Refer to your winch manual for specific checks. Routine care prevents breakdowns and ensures safe operation during tasks like vehicle recovery.
How do I re-spool the wire rope onto my winch?
Always wear leather gloves when re-spooling wire rope to protect your hands. Never use bare hands, as the rope can cause cuts or burns. Keep a slight load on the rope to spool it evenly. Guide the rope with one gloved hand while using the remote control in the other to operate the winch. This ensures safe, tight spooling for effective winching.
What should I do about my vehicles wheels while winching?
Place wheel chocks or sturdy blocks under your vehicle’s wheels before winching. This prevents the vehicle from rolling forward or backward, keeping it stable and safe during the pull. Use solid materials like wood, rubber chocks, or stones, and position them snugly against the tires. This is especially important on slopes or loose terrain during tasks like vehicle recovery.
Can I use a fuse to protect my winch and vehicle?
Yes, a fuse or circuit breaker is highly recommended to protect your winch and vehicle from electrical damage. A 400-amp circuit breaker is ideal, as it handles amperage spikes during winching and resets easily, unlike costly 400-amp fuses. Alternatively, a cut-off switch is a budget-friendly option to disconnect power during a short circuit, though it won’t prevent spikes. Always use properly rated devices for safety.
Can I increase the line speed of my worm gear winch?
Yes, but it reduces pulling power by about 50%. For electric winches, swapping gears can boost line speed up to 50%. For hydraulic winches, replacing the motor with one of different displacement can increase speed. Consult your winch manual or a professional for proper modifications to ensure safe operation and avoid damage during tasks like vehicle recovery.

Videos

PIERCE 110V Electric Winch – 11,000 lb, 8" Drum (Planetary Drive)

PIERCE 110V Electric Winch – 11,000 lb, 8" Drum (Planetary Drive)

PIERCE 110V Electric Winch – 11,000 lb, 8" Drum (Planetary Drive)

PIERCE 110V Electric Winch – 11,000 lb, 8" Drum (Planetary Drive)

PIERCE 110V Electric Winch – 11,000 lb, 8" Drum (Planetary Drive)

PIERCE 110V Electric Winch – 11,000 lb, 8" Drum (Planetary Drive)

12,500 lbs. 8" Drum Industrial Electric Winch

12,500 lbs. 8" Drum Industrial Electric Winch

12,500 lbs. 8" Drum Industrial Electric Winch

12,500 lbs. 8" Drum Industrial Electric Winch

12,500 lbs. 8" Drum Industrial Electric Winch

12,500 lbs. 8" Drum Industrial Electric Winch