Adding Winch to Gooseneck Flatbed

lincmercguy · Dec 28, 2024

I have a 12V winch on one of those cradles that slides into a 2" receiver hitch. I'd like to add a mount to the trailer so I can pull a vehicle onto the trailer. It's a flatbed with a dovetail. I can weld (have a MIG welder), but would like to find something that "hooks over" the front of the deck frame so it is less dependent on my welding skills. Any suggestions for a product?

nisaacs · Dec 28, 2024

Just get a piece of 2" receiver tube and make your own. Sounds like you are more than capable.

flyerdan · Dec 28, 2024

Is there a reason that you can't just mount a fairlead at the front of the trailer and use the rear hitch mount on the pickup for the winch?

BlueKnife · Dec 29, 2024

Here's mine. Having the mount up high allows you to get a better angle when pulling the vehicle onto the trailer. The same design could be used at any height on the verticals. Not 100% sure what you mean by "hooks over" the deck frame. If you're not confident in your welding skills, it would probably be best to either hire someone who is or wait till you get some more practice in.

lincmercguy · Dec 29, 2024

flyerdan said:
Is there a reason that you can't just mount a fairlead at the front of the trailer and use the rear hitch mount on the pickup for the winch?

I could, but I'd rather not carry the winch there while driving or have to move it there and back to use it.

CalG · Dec 29, 2024

If your welding skills cause you pause, just tack up what you desire, and then bring it to a welder to finish the work. A couple of tacks, even poor ones, will not be any problem regarding the finished weldment integrity.

jaxs · Dec 30, 2024

Other than the 2" receiver stub like yours, mine is made from used oilfield pipe. 2-3/8" pipe spanning gooseneck uprights,resting in 2-7/8" cradles on each end. Receiver welded to a piece of 2-7/8" which is slid over 2-3/8 above. The only weld that must be top quality is receiver to 2-7/8" pipe which can easily be done by a qualified welder in their shop.

A simple stand with roller placed on rear is needed to hold cable off deck until load comes onto deck. A couple 20k snatch blocks are indispensable for off-center and other unusual situations. 4x4,6x6 and 2x6 cribbing comes in handy. In addition to lockable toolbox I have an expanded metal basket on tongue for storing accessories and chains.

A couple running lights on front corners are wired to #7 of 7 way plug plus #4 with switch and diode so lights can operate from trailer battery whether hooked to truck or not.

My winch cost $1,400 so I have anti-theft provisions it would be difficult to explain for you.