Question about the output of a car battery in amps

AI Thread Summary
An electric 12v anchor winch was initially powered by a low-output 3 amp AC to DC inverter, causing it to operate slowly and jerkily. The user sought advice on the appropriate amperage needed for optimal performance. It was suggested that most medium winches require around 15 amps, although the specific requirements were not labeled on the winch or in the manual. After acquiring a 15 amp inverter, the winch functioned correctly, confirming the necessary power range. A recommendation was made to consider a 120v winch for easier operation in the future.
wizer
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Hi. I joined to ask this one question..but who knows maybe I will stick around and learn other things..lol...

I bought an electric 12v anchor winch which is designed to be used with a 12v car battery on a boat. I intend to use it to hoist my bicycles to the ceiling of my garage. However, the AC to DC power inverter that I tried, which outputs 3 amps...makes the winch run very slowly and with a jerking motion. I assume this is because the amperage is way low. So I need a power inverter with a higher amperage rating...

My question..how high?
 
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Welcome to PF, Wizer.
The requirements should be listed on the label, or at least in the owner's manual. I believe that most medium winches run about 15 amps, but I'm not sure.
 
Danger said:
Welcome to PF, Wizer.
The requirements should be listed on the label, or at least in the owner's manual. I believe that most medium winches run about 15 amps, but I'm not sure.

Thanks Danger..

No label anywhere on the winch or on the manual...I know, there should be, right?

I ran over to RadioShack, and picked up a 15 amp AC to 12v DC power inverter and it appears to work perfectly.

So you are correct, and that confirms that I am in the right power range for that winch.

Thanks.
 
You're quit welcome.
 
Next time buy a 120v winch...cheaper, simpler and just plug it into any wall outlet...
 

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