Trailer winch strap vs cable

[Sculpin67]

On my trailer, I currently have a 20' strap. it's too long and rubs against the mounting bolt, making it a PIA to pull out the strap or reel in.

Anyone know of a shorter strap or would a metal cable get rid of this problem?

[JerryA]

Just cut the strap off at the length you want it and remove the hook. Burn the edges of the strap so they don't fray. Tie the hook back on with a good double knot. Doesn't look quite the same but will work just fine.

My strap frays along the edges of the last few feet. I just cut it off when it gets too bad and re-tie. Once the strap gets too short, I replace the whole thing and start over. You can buy a 16 ft strap from places like Bass Pro. They're not expensive and are easy to install.

I've seen people with cables. I didn't think they wound on very well. Decided to stick with a strap.

[wajski]

pull the strap off the winch, cut it from that end reinstall it

[c. j. stone]

If you can "power load"(or allowable where you do the majority of your boating), you do not need much length of strap, cable or rope at all to lock down the boat for trailering. Never quite understood why they make them so long! Makes it easier to center the boat on the trailer too (IMHO). Most offload with a rope attached to a boat cleat also. In any case, I'd shy away from cable. It will fray in short order, and eat your hands and fingers up!!