Winch Guide

Learn more about the winches PIERCE has to offer to make the right purchase for your needs here. 
30_000_lb_Hydraulic_Recovery_Winch_Long_Drum_Air_Clutch

Recovery Winches

(PS6000, PS9000, PS12000, PS20000)
For rugged recovery jobs, Pierce Recovery Winches deliver 6,000–20,000 lbs of pulling power with automatic drum brakes and 3-stage planetary gears.  Affordable entry models like the PS6000 and PS9000 suit light recovery, while the PS20000 offers premium performance.  Designed for tow trucks, trailers, and off-road vehicles, these winches provide dependable pulling strength where it matters most.

Price Range: $514 – $1,494

Pros & Cons

Applications


Installation Requirements

Pros:

  • Affordable entry models (PS6000 & PS9000 under $700).
  • Automatic built-in drum brake for added safety.
  • 3-stage planetary gears ensure smooth, strong pulling.
  • Wide range: 6,000 to 20,000 lbs capacities.

Cons:

  • Powered only by 12V DC (650 CCA battery required).
  • Duty cycle limited vs. hydraulic winches.
  • Heavy current draw may tax smaller vehicle electrical systems.
  • Off-road recovery
  • Tow trucks and trailers
  • Farm and ranch vehicles
  • 12V DC with minimum 650 CCA battery
  • 2-gauge wiring
  • Reinforced bumper, mounting plate, or trailer frame
SKU Brake Type Clutch Type Construction Gear Ratio Gear Type Included Wire Rope Max Capacity (lbs.) Max Line Speed Motor (hp) Max Amps Operating Voltage Power Source Recommended Battery Recommended Wire
SKU: PS20000
Brake Type: Automatic Built-in Drum Brake
Clutch Type: Sliding Ring Gear
Construction: Cast Metal
Gear Ratio: 420:1
Gear Type: 3-Stage Planetary Gear
Included Wire Rope: ½" x 72'
Max Capacity (lbs.): 20000
Max Line Speed: 20.4 fpm
Motor (hp): 6.8
Max Amps: 520
Operating Voltage: 12 Volts DC
Power Source: Electric, DC
Recommended Battery: 650 CCA
Recommended Wire: 2 gauge
SKU: PS12000
Brake Type: Automatic Built-in Drum Brake
Clutch Type: Sliding Ring Gear
Construction: Cast Metal
Gear Ratio: 265:1
Gear Type: 3-Stage Planetary Gear
Included Wire Rope: ⅜" x 94'
Max Capacity (lbs.): 12000
Max Line Speed: 21.3 fpm
Motor (hp): 5.5
Max Amps: 390
Operating Voltage: 12 Volts DC
Power Source: Electric, DC
Recommended Battery: 650 CCA
Recommended Wire: 2 gauge
SKU: PS9000
Brake Type: Automatic Built-in Drum Brake
Clutch Type: Sliding Ring Gear
Construction: Cast Metal
Gear Ratio: 265:1
Gear Type: 3-Stage Planetary Gear
Included Wire Rope: ¾" x 94'
Max Capacity (lbs.): 9000
Max Line Speed: 24 fpm
Motor (hp): 5.5
Max Amps: 360
Operating Voltage: 12 Volts DC
Power Source: Electric, DC
Recommended Battery: 650 CCA
Recommended Wire: 2 gauge
SKU: PS6000
Brake Type: Automatic Built-in Drum Brake
Clutch Type: Sliding Ring Gear
Construction: Cast Metal
Gear Ratio: 218:1
Gear Type: 3-Stage Planetary Gear
Included Wire Rope: 9/32" x 65'
Max Capacity (lbs.): 6000
Max Line Speed: 13 fpm
Motor (hp): 5.5
Max Amps: 290
Operating Voltage: 12 Volts DC
Power Source: Electric, DC
Recommended Battery: 650 CCA
Recommended Wire: 2 gauge

Hydraulic Industrial Winches

(PSW654-8HK, PSW654-11HK, PSR654-11HK)
Pierce Hydraulic Industrial Winches deliver reliable pulling power for marine, oilfield, and industrial recovery. With continuous-duty worm gear design and robust hydraulic performance, they excel in demanding environments. These winches are engineered to hold heavy loads securely and withstand years of industrial service.

Price Range: $1,132 – $1,236

Pros & Cons

Applications

Installation Requirements

Pros:

  • Continuous-duty operation without overheating.
  • Worm gear brake provides excellent load holding.
  • Built tough for marine, oilfield, and industrial use.

Cons:

  • Slower line speeds vs. hydraulic recovery winches.
  • Requires hydraulic pump and system plumbing.
  • More complex installation than DC winches.
  • Oilfield rigs
  • Dockside and marine recovery
  • Industrial trailers and heavy-duty vehicles
  • Under installation, it should hydraulic system rated for max of 2500 psi and 15 GPM
  • Secure steel mounting platform

Electric DC Industrial Winches

(PSW654-8K, 8MK, 11K, 11MK)
Pierce Electric DC Industrial Winches combine worm gear durability with the convenience of 12V power. Built for trucks, trailers, and field work, they deliver 9,000–12,500 lbs of pulling capacity without requiring hydraulics. Rugged and reliable, these winches are a proven choice for mobile industrial applications.

Price Range: $1,235 – $1,390

Pros & Cons

Applications

Installation Requirements

Pros:

  • Operates on 12V DC—no hydraulic system required.
  • Worm gear brake provides solid load holding.
  • Strong 9,000–12,500 lb pulling capacities.

Cons:

  • Lower line speeds (9–14 fpm) compared to planetary electric winches.
  • Requires heavy-gauge wiring (2-gauge).
  • Duty cycle limitations under continuous use.
  • Utility trucks
  • Service trailers
  • Agricultural equipment
  • 650 CCA battery minimum
  • 2-gauge wiring
  • Reinforced steel mounting base

Electric AC Industrial Winches

(PS654-8EK/8EMK, 11EK/11EMK)
Pierce AC Industrial Winches are ideal for stationary use in shops, factories, and warehouses. Powered by standard 110/220V AC, these winches deliver up to 11,000 lbs of pulling strength with rugged worm gear construction. Perfect for fixed indoor applications where steady power and long service life are essential.

Price Range: $1,700 – $1,854

Pros & Cons

Applications

Installation Requirements

Pros:

  • 110V/220V AC powered for stationary installs.
  • Worm gear brake ensures dependable holding.
  • Long-lasting, low-maintenance construction.
  • Motors are TEFC, giving a 100% duty cycle.

Cons:

  • Very slow line speeds (about 4 fpm).
  • Requires stable AC power—non-portable without generator.
  • Limited to fixed-position use.
  • Warehouses
  • Workshops and factories
  • 110V/220V AC outlet or hardwired connection
  • 12–14 gauge wiring
  • Sturdy fixed mounting platform

Performance Hydraulic Series

(PSHV10000, PSHV15000, PSHV18000)
Pierce Performance Hydraulic Winches provide 10,000–18,000 lbs of pulling capacity with fast line speeds and continuous-duty operation. Designed for towing, logging, and heavy recovery, these winches deliver professional-grade reliability. Rugged construction ensures lasting performance in demanding applications.

Price Range: $1,582 – $2,075

Pros & Cons

Applications

Installation Requirements

Pros:

  • Faster line speeds than worm gear hydraulic units.
  • Durable aluminum die-cast housings with steel drums.
  • 10,000–18,000 lb pulling capacities.

Cons:

  • Requires integration with hydraulic systems.
  • More expensive than electric recovery winches.
  • Professional installation often recommended.
  • Tow trucks and wreckers
  • Heavy equipment recovery
  • Logging and forestry
  • Hydraulic pump and reservoir with proper GPM/PSI
  • Hydraulic system rated for max of 2175 psi and 15.9 gpm
  • Reinforced mounting frame
  • Quality hydraulic fittings and hoses

Heavy-Duty Performance Hydraulic Series

(PSHDH20000M, PSHDH30000, PSHDH50000)
Pierce Heavy-Duty Hydraulic Winches deliver unmatched pulling power for industrial and military-grade applications. With capacities up to 50,000 lbs and multidisc braking systems, they are built for mining, marine, and extreme recovery operations. Engineered for severe-duty performance, these winches are the ultimate solution for the heaviest pulls.

$4,600 – $15,224+

Pros & Cons

Applications

Installation Requirements

Pros:

  • Extreme pulling power: 20,000–50,000 lbs.
  • Multidisc brakes with optional air spool controls.
  • Engineered for mining, rail, marine, and military.
  • Handles continuous severe-duty work.

Cons:

  • High price point (up to $10,000+).
  • Heavy, complex installation.
  • Requires high-capacity hydraulic flow (up to 26.5 gpm).
  • Mining and oilfield operations
  • Marine and offshore lifting
  • Military and extreme recovery environments
  • High-capacity hydraulic pump and cooling system
  • Engineered structural support frame
  • Professional-grade hoses, valves, and fittings
SKU Brake Type Clutch Type Construction Gear Ratio Gear Type Hydraulic Motor Max Capacity (lbs.) Max Line Speed Max Oil Flow (gpm) Operational Pressure (psi) Power Source Recommended Wire Rope
SKU: PSHDH20000M
Brake Type: Multidisc Brake
Clutch Type: Output Shaft Disengaged
Construction: Aluminum Die Cast Housings with Steel Drum
Gear Ratio: 30:1
Gear Type: 2-Stage Planetary Gear
Hydraulic Motor: 9.5 in³ / rev
Max Capacity (lbs.): 20000
Max Line Speed: 23 fpm @ 15.9 gpm
Max Oil Flow (gpm): 15.9
Operational Pressure (psi): 2175
Power Source: Hydraulic
Recommended Wire Rope: N/A
SKU: PSHDH50000
Brake Type: Multidisc Brake
Clutch Type: Output Shaft Disengaged - Air Spool
Construction: Aluminum Die Cast Housings with Steel Drum
Gear Ratio: 44:1
Gear Type: 2-Stage Planetary Gear
Hydraulic Motor: 15.4 in³ / rev
Max Capacity (lbs.): 50000
Max Line Speed: 19 fpm @ 26.5 gpm
Max Oil Flow (gpm): 26.5
Operational Pressure (psi): 2900
Power Source: Hydraulic
Recommended Wire Rope: ⅞" x 157' Wire Rope (1,770 N/mm2 (EIPS) breaking strength of 305 kN (68,442 lbf) required for SAE J706 rating)
SKU: PSHDH30000
Brake Type: Multidisc Brake
Clutch Type: Output Shaft Disengaged - Air Spool
Construction: Cast Housings with Steel Drum
Gear Ratio: 41:1
Gear Type: 2-Stage Planetary Gear
Hydraulic Motor: 9.5 in³ / rev
Max Capacity (lbs.): 30000
Max Line Speed: 16 fpm @ 15.9 gpm
Max Oil Flow (gpm): 15.9
Operational Pressure (psi): 2540
Power Source: Hydraulic
Recommended Wire Rope: ⅝" x 250' (1,960 N/mm2grade a minimum breaking strength of 179 KN required)

Warranty & Support

The warranties PIERCE offers vary by product. Please explore available warranties by product series below.
Recovery Winches (PS6000, PS9000, PS12000, PS20000)
Limited Lifetime Warranty

Mechanical Parts guaranteed free of Defects.
Mechanical parts are guaranteed to be free of manufacturer defects.
Parts will be replaced at the manufacturer's discretion.

Electrical Components have a 2 Year Warranty
Warranty ensures that electrical components are free from defects.
The Warranty period is taken from the date the goods leave our factory, although we will accept a later date if the Distributor can confirm date of purchase.

Conditions
Does not include normal wear and tear, misuse, water damage or other forms of abuse.
Electrical components must have proper wiring verified and be protected by appropriate fuses, breakers, and power disconnects to qualify for any warranty coverage.
This warranty only covers the original products sold by PIERCE. Labor, down time, loss of work and other expenses are not included in this warranty.
You must contact us first to receive a return merchandise authorization number and instructions to return and receive warranty.
All return shipping logistics and costs are non-refundable and the responsibility of the buyer.
Call us to explain the problem, making sure you have both the model number and the serial number on hand. Often, we can resolve the matter over the phone.
Hydraulic Industrial Winches (PSW654-8HK, PSW654-11HK, PSR654-11HK)
Limited Lifetime Warranty

Mechanical Parts guaranteed free of Defects.
Mechanical parts are guaranteed to be free of manufacturer defects.
Parts will be replaced at the manufacturer's discretion.

Electrical Components have a 2 Year Warranty
Warranty ensures that electrical components are free from defects.
The Warranty period is taken from the date the goods leave our factory, although we will accept a later date if the Distributor can confirm date of purchase.

Conditions
Does not include normal wear and tear, misuse, water damage or other forms of abuse.
Electrical components must have proper wiring verified and be protected by appropriate fuses, breakers, and power disconnects to qualify for any warranty coverage.
This warranty only covers the original products sold by PIERCE. Labor, down time, loss of work and other expenses are not included in this warranty.
You must contact us first to receive a return merchandise authorization number and instructions to return and receive warranty.
All return shipping logistics and costs are non-refundable and the responsibility of the buyer.
Call us to explain the problem, making sure you have both the model number and the serial number on hand. Often, we can resolve the matter over the phone.
Electric DC Industrial Winches (PSW654-8K, PSW654-8MK, PSW654-11K, PSW654-11MK, PS654-8EK, PS654-8EMK, PS654-11EK, PS654-11EMK)
Limited Lifetime Warranty

Mechanical Parts guaranteed free of Defects.
Mechanical parts are guaranteed to be free of manufacturer defects.
Parts will be replaced at the manufacturer's discretion.

Electrical Components have a 2 Year Warranty
Warranty ensures that electrical components are free from defects.
The Warranty period is taken from the date the goods leave our factory, although we will accept a later date if the Distributor can confirm date of purchase.

Conditions
Does not include normal wear and tear, misuse, water damage or other forms of abuse.
Electrical components must have proper wiring verified and be protected by appropriate fuses, breakers, and power disconnects to qualify for any warranty coverage.
This warranty only covers the original products sold by PIERCE. Labor, down time, loss of work and other expenses are not included in this warranty.
You must contact us first to receive a return merchandise authorization number and instructions to return and receive warranty.
All return shipping logistics and costs are non-refundable and the responsibility of the buyer.
Call us to explain the problem, making sure you have both the model number and the serial number on hand. Often, we can resolve the matter over the phone.
Performance Hydraulic Series (PSHV10000, PSHV15000, PSHV18000PSHDH20000M, PSHDH30000, PSHDH50000)
1 Year Warranty

All Parts guaranteed free of Defects.
Mechanical, Electrical, and Hydraulic parts are guaranteed to be free of manufacturer defects.
Parts will be replaced at the manufacturer's discretion.
The Warranty period is taken from the date the goods leave our factory, although we will accept a later date if the Distributor can confirm date of purchase.

Conditions
Does not include normal wear and tear, misuse, water damage or other forms of abuse.
Electrical components must have proper wiring verified and be protected by appropriate fuses, breakers, and power disconnects to qualify for any warranty coverage.
This warranty only covers the original products sold by PIERCE. Labor, down time, loss of work and other expenses are not included in this warranty.
You must contact us first to receive a return merchandise authorization number and instructions to return and receive warranty.
All return shipping logistics and costs are non-refundable and the responsibility of the buyer.
Call us to explain the problem, making sure you have both the model number and the serial number on hand. Often, we can resolve the matter over the phone.