First Impressions of Dutton-Lainson Dutton Lainson Dlx1200 Trailer Winch With Strap – 1200 Lb.
The Dutton-Lainson Dutton Lainson Dlx1200 Trailer Winch With Strap – 1200 Lb. is a manual winch designed for horizontal pulling applications, primarily for boats and trailers. Manufactured by Dutton-Lainson, this winch boasts a 1200 lb. capacity and a patented reversible ratchet, features that immediately caught my eye. It promised to be a reliable and straightforward solution, and I was eager to see if it lived up to that expectation.
My old trailer winch had finally given out after years of saltwater exposure and heavy use. I needed a replacement that was durable, easy to use, and wouldn’t break the bank. After researching various options, the Dutton-Lainson Dlx1200 seemed to strike the right balance of features and affordability.
Unboxing the Dlx1200 revealed a well-constructed unit. The powder-coated charcoal gray finish on the base looked tough, and the zinc-plated reel seemed adequately protected against corrosion. The included 15-foot polyester strap felt robust, and the snap hook appeared heavy-duty.
Compared to a cheaper, generic winch I considered, the Dutton-Lainson felt significantly more substantial. I also looked at a higher-end electric winch, but for my small fishing boat, it felt like overkill. The Dlx1200 seemed like the perfect middle ground.
My initial impression was positive. The winch felt solid and well-made, and I was optimistic that it would be a dependable replacement for my old unit. I was particularly impressed by the inclusion of the strap.
Real-World Testing: Putting Dutton-Lainson Dutton Lainson Dlx1200 Trailer Winch With Strap – 1200 Lb. to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Dutton-Lainson Dlx1200 while retrieving my 16-foot aluminum fishing boat from a brackish water ramp. The ramp was slightly submerged, and the conditions were damp, but not overly challenging. The main test would be the effectiveness of the winch and strap in pulling the boat securely onto the trailer.
The winch was surprisingly easy to use right out of the box. The reversible ratchet mechanism worked smoothly, allowing me to crank the boat onto the trailer without any binding or slippage. I especially appreciated the ergonomic handle grip, which provided a comfortable and secure hold even with wet hands. The freewheel operation made it easy to release the tension on the strap when launching the boat.
Initially, there were no significant issues. Everything operated as expected, and I felt confident in the winch’s ability to handle the load. The strap worked without fraying.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Dutton-Lainson Dlx1200 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. I’ve used it in various conditions, including saltwater, freshwater, and even on a particularly steep and slippery boat ramp.
The powder-coated finish has held up remarkably well, with no signs of rust or corrosion despite constant exposure to moisture. The strap also remains in excellent condition, with minimal wear and tear. The ratchet mechanism still operates smoothly.
Maintaining the winch has been relatively easy. After each use, I simply rinse it with fresh water to remove any salt or debris. I also occasionally apply a light coat of marine grease to the moving parts to keep them lubricated. In comparison to my previous winch, which required constant maintenance and eventually succumbed to corrosion, the Dutton-Lainson has been a significant improvement. It has exceeded my expectations, and is easy to maintain.
Breaking Down the Features of Dutton-Lainson Dutton Lainson Dlx1200 Trailer Winch With Strap – 1200 Lb.
Specifications
- Weight Capacity: 1,200 lbs. This is sufficient for smaller boats and trailers, but it’s crucial to ensure your load doesn’t exceed this limit.
- Strap Dimensions: 15′ L x 2″ W. The 15-foot length is adequate for most standard trailer setups. The 2-inch width provides ample surface area for secure and even pulling.
- Handle Length: 7″. The 7-inch handle provides sufficient leverage for easy cranking. Its ergonomic design is a welcome feature.
- Material: Powder-coated base and zinc-plated reel & hardware. These materials offer excellent corrosion resistance, essential for marine environments.
- Ratchet Type: Patented reversible ratchet. The reversible ratchet allows for cranking in either direction, a significant convenience.
- Finish: Textured charcoal gray powder coat on base, TUFFPLATE zinc finish on reel and hardware. The powder coat and zinc plating provide a durable and corrosion-resistant finish.
These specifications contribute directly to the winch’s performance and user experience. The 1200 lb. capacity provides ample pulling power for smaller boats, while the durable materials ensure long-lasting reliability.
Performance & Functionality
The Dutton-Lainson Dlx1200 performs admirably for its intended purpose. It reliably pulls my boat onto the trailer, even on steep ramps. The reversible ratchet mechanism is smooth and efficient, making the cranking process relatively effortless.
The primary strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. It is a straightforward, no-frills winch that performs consistently. The main weakness is that, being a manual winch, it requires physical effort. This can be tiring, especially when dealing with heavier loads or challenging conditions. The winch meets my expectations for a manual trailer winch.
Design & Ergonomics
The Dutton-Lainson Dlx1200 features a simple, functional design. The materials feel robust, and the construction appears solid. Its weight is reasonable, making it easy to install and maneuver.
The ergonomic handle grip is a standout feature, providing a comfortable and secure hold. There is virtually no learning curve; it is intuitive and straightforward to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Dutton-Lainson Dlx1200 is built to last. The corrosion-resistant materials and durable construction suggest it should withstand years of use, even in harsh marine environments.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The winch is designed for easy access to moving parts, making maintenance straightforward.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Dutton-Lainson Dlx1200 comes with a 15-foot polyester strap and snap hook. There are no additional included accessories. Customization options are limited.
While you could potentially replace the strap with a cable, this is generally not recommended for safety reasons. You can purchase different sized straps. The mounting holes are standard, allowing for easy installation on most trailers.
Pros and Cons of Dutton-Lainson Dutton Lainson Dlx1200 Trailer Winch With Strap – 1200 Lb.
Pros
- Durable Construction: The powder-coated base and zinc-plated reel offer excellent corrosion resistance, crucial for marine applications.
- Easy to Use: The reversible ratchet mechanism and ergonomic handle make cranking smooth and effortless.
- Affordable: The Dutton-Lainson Dlx1200 provides excellent value for the price, offering reliable performance without breaking the bank.
- Includes Strap: The included 15-foot polyester strap is a convenient addition, eliminating the need for separate purchase.
- Reliable Performance: Consistently performs as expected, providing confidence when loading and unloading your boat.
Cons
- Requires physical effort, as it is a manual winch.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Dutton-Lainson Dutton Lainson Dlx1200 Trailer Winch With Strap – 1200 Lb.?
The Dutton-Lainson Dutton Lainson Dlx1200 Trailer Winch With Strap – 1200 Lb. is perfect for boaters with smaller vessels (under 1200 lbs.) who need a reliable and affordable manual winch. It’s also a good fit for those who prefer the simplicity of a manual system over the complexity and cost of an electric winch. Pro anglers who frequently launch and retrieve their boats will appreciate its ease of use and durability.
Anyone needing to winch loads exceeding 1200 lbs. should skip this product. Those who have physical limitations that would make manual cranking difficult should also consider an electric winch instead.
A must-have accessory is marine grease for regular lubrication. Consider purchasing a spare strap.
Conclusion on Dutton-Lainson Dutton Lainson Dlx1200 Trailer Winch With Strap – 1200 Lb.
Overall, the Dutton-Lainson Dutton Lainson Dlx1200 Trailer Winch With Strap – 1200 Lb. is a reliable, durable, and affordable option for boaters with smaller vessels. Its simple design, corrosion-resistant materials, and easy-to-use features make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a manual winch.
The price is definitely justified by the quality and performance. It’s a solid investment that should provide years of dependable service.
I would absolutely recommend the Dutton-Lainson Dlx1200 to anyone in need of a manual trailer winch. Don’t hesitate—upgrade your trailer today and experience the peace of mind that comes with a reliable and well-built winch!