I just got a 1997 AC 454 Bearcat 4x4 to help me log out a bunch of overmature aspen in our hilly woods. It came without a winch. I presume to get the most powerful winch that is reasonable. I'm considering 3,000, 3,500 or 4,000 lb. winches. I notice the 4,000 lb. winches are not listed for ATVs.
Is this because the frame could buckle?
The winch's dimensions?
The electrical system couldn't supply enough power?
Only because a 700 lb ATV wouldn't need it for self-recovery?
Or?
My manual says the magneto puts out 340 watts @ 5,000 rpm. It looks like I can find a dry cell battery that is at least 16 amps. Or I could rig up my big trolling motor battery to take along if that would help.
How can I translate battery/magneto/ATV size into appropriate max. winch size?
thanks!

 

If you hook a 3000# winch to a tree & pull even with your brakes on you will pull the machine so anything more is a waste. Even with my 2500# I pull my machine most of the time.

 

hes right no matter what size 25 or 3000 lb or bigger if the atv isnt ancored to something solid it will just pull you towards the the tree if its heavier. the only problem w/ ancoring to something solid the 3000 lb winch could tear your wheeler apart.