Adapting Traveler Wireless Winch Remote to a Winch it Wasn't Designed For

Backyard Projects
11 Mar 202409:41
EducationalLearning
32 Likes 10 Comments

TLDRThis video tutorial takes viewers through the process of retrofitting an old ATV winch for versatile use, specifically aiming to adapt it for a dump trailer. The presenter begins by addressing the challenge of a dusty winch with a tangled mess of wires, including a manual switch from Tractor Supply and a remote not originally designed for the winch. Through trial and error, the presenter methodically identifies the wire functions, including power, ground, and in/out signals, and demonstrates how to connect a wireless remote receiver. The project involves testing, rewiring, and ensuring compatibility between components. Finally, the presenter plans to design a weatherproof case for the setup and provides insights on wiring diagrams for future reference, concluding with a successful wireless winch adaptation.

Takeaways
  • ๐Ÿ”ง The project involves integrating an old ATV winch onto a frame for use with a Reese receiver hitch.
  • ๐Ÿ’ก The winch initially has a messy wiring setup with a manual switch and a non-compatible remote.
  • ๐Ÿ” The goal is to sort out the wires to identify power, negative, and signal wires for the solenoid block.
  • ๐Ÿ› ๏ธ Testing is crucial to ensure functionality before proceeding with the installation.
  • ๐Ÿงต The script describes the process of disconnecting the old remote and examining the wire colors for matching purposes.
  • ๐Ÿ”Œ The wireless receiver has a different set of wires (black, red, green, and brown) which need to be matched with the winch's wires.
  • ๐Ÿ” The process involves stripping and testing the wires to determine their function (power, ground, in, and out signals).
  • ๐Ÿ”„ The script details the trial and error in figuring out the correct wire connections for the solenoid.
  • ๐Ÿ“‹ A wiring diagram is planned to be created for future reference and ease of understanding.
  • ๐Ÿ› ๏ธ The project aims to result in a wireless winch setup, with plans to tidy up the wiring and weatherproof the connections.
  • ๐Ÿšœ The next steps include building a mount for the winch and solenoid, with 3D printing being considered for protection against elements.
Q & A
  • What is the main goal of the project described in the transcript?

    -The main goal is to rebuild an old ATV winch and integrate it with a frame so it can be used on a Reese receiver hitch, primarily for use with a dump trailer.

  • What is the condition of the ATV winch when it was taken off the shelf?

    -The ATV winch was dusty and had been sitting on the shelf for a while, indicating it was not in use and needed some work to be functional again.

  • What is the issue with the remote that came with the winch?

    -The remote that came with the winch is not designed to work with this particular winch, as evidenced by the big old four-prong plug which does not match the receiver.

  • What is the first step in the process of integrating the winch with the remote?

    -The first step is to test everything by wiring it up and ensuring that when the end button is pressed, the winch reels in, which indicates that everything is functional.

  • How does the speaker determine the purpose of the wires in the four-prong plug?

    -The speaker determines the purpose of the wires by cutting the cable, identifying the colors of the wires, and assuming that the black wire is for ground and the red wire is for power based on the presence of two outgoing wires.

  • What is the process to identify the correct wiring for the winch's remote control?

    -The process involves stripping the ends of the wires, using a multimeter to test for voltage when pressing the buttons on the remote, and matching the colors of the wires from the old remote with the new one, assuming that green is for 'out' and brown is for 'in'.

  • What is the speaker's plan for the final setup of the winch after the wiring is complete?

    -The speaker plans to tidy up the wiring with the correct size connectors, possibly create a weatherproof case for the components, and then mount the solenoid and receiver hitch to finalize the setup.

  • What is the speaker's strategy if the initial wiring setup does not work?

    -If the initial setup does not work, the speaker plans to cut the wires further up and reattach them, indicating a willingness to troubleshoot and adjust the wiring based on the results of testing.

  • What is the significance of the 3D printed case mentioned in the transcript?

    -The 3D printed case is intended to protect the solenoid and receiver from the elements, suggesting that the speaker is considering the winch's exposure to weather conditions during use.

  • What is the final step mentioned for completing the winch project?

    -The final step mentioned is to build or obtain a mount for the winch, solenoid, and receiver, and then connect everything together, which will complete the integration of the winch system.

Outlines
00:00
๐Ÿ› ๏ธ ATV Winch Rebuild and Integration

The video begins with the host discussing the project of rebuilding an old ATV winch to be mounted on a Reese receiver hitch. The winch is dusty and has a messy wiring setup, including a manual switch and a remote control that is not designed for this specific winch model. The goal is to clean up the wiring, identify the power and signal wires, and integrate the winch with a solenoid block for functionality. The host tests the winch's functionality before proceeding with the rewiring process, aiming for a clean and functional setup.

05:02
๐Ÿ”Œ Winch Wiring and Remote Control Analysis

In this paragraph, the host dives into the wiring of the winch and the remote control. They dissect the cable from the manual switch, revealing a four-prong plug with two wires inside. The host identifies the red wire as the power source and the other two wires as the output signals for the winch's in and out functions. They also examine the wireless receiver, finding four wires inside: red, green, black, and brown. Through testing, they determine the correct wiring configuration for power, ground, and signal wires. The host then proceeds to wire up the wireless receiver, confirming the functionality of the in and out signals. They plan to create a weatherproof case for the rewired system and discuss the next steps for mounting the winch and connecting the solenoid and receiver.

Mindmap
Keywords
๐Ÿ’กATV winch
An ATV winch is a mechanical device used for pulling or lifting, often mounted on all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). In the video, the project focuses on repurposing an old ATV winch for a new application, indicating its versatility beyond just ATV use. This example illustrates the process of adapting and retrofitting equipment for alternative uses, showcasing the DIY approach to solving practical problems.
๐Ÿ’กReese receiver
A Reese receiver is a type of towing hitch receiver common on vehicles for attaching trailers, bike racks, or other accessories. The video's project involves mounting the ATV winch onto a frame that can attach to a Reese receiver, highlighting the goal of making the winch portable and usable in various contexts, such as with a dump trailer. This concept demonstrates the customization of towing equipment to expand its utility.
๐Ÿ’กWired remote
A wired remote refers to a control device connected to machinery or electronics through a wire, allowing the user to operate the device from a distance. The video mentions a simple wired remote that originally came with the ATV winch, emphasizing the hands-on aspect of controlling the winch's operation. This detail illustrates the importance of user interface in equipment operation, especially in DIY projects.
๐Ÿ’กWireless remote
In contrast to the wired remote, a wireless remote operates without physical connections, offering greater flexibility and convenience. The video's narrative involves integrating a wireless remote with the ATV winch, which wasn't originally designed for it. This adaptation signifies the project's aim to enhance functionality and user experience through technological upgrades.
๐Ÿ’กSolenoid block
A solenoid block is an assembly of solenoids, which are electromagnetic devices used to convert electrical energy into mechanical action. The video discusses identifying the wiring connections for the solenoid block of the winch, which is crucial for controlling the winch's direction (in and out). This component is central to the project, highlighting the intersection of electrical engineering and mechanical design in DIY endeavors.
๐Ÿ’กWeatherproof case
A weatherproof case is designed to protect electronic or mechanical components from the elements, such as water and dust. The video contemplates 3D printing a weatherproof case for the winch's electronic parts, underscoring the importance of durability and protection in outdoor or rugged-use projects. This consideration reflects the practical aspect of ensuring longevity and reliability of DIY projects.
๐Ÿ’ก3D printing
3D printing is a process of creating three-dimensional objects from a digital file, offering customization and precision in manufacturing. The video explores the idea of using 3D printing to create a weatherproof case, showcasing the integration of modern manufacturing techniques in solving specific project needs. This highlights the accessibility and utility of 3D printing in personal projects.
๐Ÿ’กElectrical wiring
Electrical wiring involves connecting various electrical components using conductive wires to form a circuit. The video details the process of figuring out the wiring for power, ground, and control signals for the winch, emphasizing the technical skill and knowledge required in electrical DIY projects. This aspect of the project illustrates the intricacies and challenges of working with electrical systems.
๐Ÿ’กVoltage testing
Voltage testing is a diagnostic method used to check the electrical potential difference between two points in a circuit. The video mentions using voltage testing to confirm the function of the wires connected to the wireless receiver, demonstrating the importance of verifying electrical connections and functionality in projects involving electronics.
๐Ÿ’กWire splicing
Wire splicing refers to the method of connecting wires together, often used to extend, modify, or repair electrical circuits. The video involves splicing wires to integrate the wireless remote with the winch, illustrating a common technique in electrical DIY projects for achieving customized or desired circuit configurations. This step is critical in ensuring that the new and existing components work together as intended.
Highlights

The goal is to build an old ATV winch onto a frame for use with a Reese receiver.

The winch has a mess of wires and a manual switch.

The winch is a Traveler model from Tractor Supply.

The remote provided is not designed to work with this particular winch.

The plan is to test everything out and identify the power, negative, and in/out signals for the solenoid block.

The old remote is disconnected, and the wires are color-coded for identification.

The wireless receiver has four plugs, including a black wire instead of red for power.

The assumption is that black is the common ground, red is power in, and green and brown are for forward and reverse.

The green wire is confirmed as the out signal, and brown as the in signal.

The remote has two wires on one side and four on the other, complicating the wiring process.

The red wire is suspected to be hot, black for ground, and yellow and green for in and out.

The project involves connecting the winch to a solenoid and creating a wireless control system.

The receiver block is wired with yellow to brown, red to red, black to black, and green to green despite different shades.

The winch is successfully tested with the wireless receiver, confirming the correct wiring.

Plans to tidy up the wiring with the correct size connectors and weatherproof the setup are discussed.

A 3D printed weatherproof case is anticipated for the solenoid and receiver.

The next step is to build or design a mount for the winch and solenoid assembly.

Transcripts
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