DIY Wake Winch Build

What Is A Wake Winch

On this page, you will find instructions on how to build a DIY Wake Winch.

A wake winch is a towing system powered by an engine or motor that allows a rider to be pulled a certain distance. The distance is determined by the length of the towing cable.

Wake winches allow the rider to be pulled across land or a body of water without the use of a boat or hill. This portable device allows riders to wakeboard or snowboard urban terrain that wouldn’t be normally rideable.

What This DIY Wake Winch Looks Like

DIY Wake Winch Build Cost

The cost to build a wake winch usually is around $800 dollars give or take.

Wake Winch Parts List

Most of the components can be purchased on Amazon and local hardware stores. Below is the list of parts I used for this wake winch build. These are affiliate links so by clicking on them you will be directed to the part and I will receive a small commission. This costs no extra and allows me to produce more free content like this.

Towing Cable – https://amzn.to/3fsVH0H

Pillow Blocks – https://amzn.to/3xX3tpS

Torque Converter – https://amzn.to/3BUsrr0

Sprocket & Chain – https://amzn.to/3E343X1

Handle – https://amzn.to/3CjBFif

Fairlead – https://amzn.to/3frNAS1

Engine Oil – https://amzn.to/3rg5N7J

Engine – https://amzn.to/3CfeUvJ

Hubs – https://amzn.to/3E71wLD

Tires – https://amzn.to/3BQdZQZ

Steel for Frame – https://amzn.to/3SmZISV

Steel Rod – https://amzn.to/3BWcSPE

Wheel Clips – https://amzn.to/3SlORbR

Steel Threaded Rod – https://amzn.to/3RqDQVk

Splash Guard – https://amzn.to/3dShLkU

Spool Axel – Can be purchased at https://www.gokartsupply.com/axles.htm

Wake Winch Engine $150

We used a 6.5 hp Predator engine. This engine can provide enough power for deep water starts. I weigh around 190 lbs and reached 24 mph on flat calm water. This engine is also commonly used on go-cart and mini bike builds. There are other engines you can use but we found this one to be the most cost effective, easy to work with, and provided enough power we needed. You can purchase this on amazon or at Harbor Freight.

Chain & Sprocket $45

The chain and sprocket came together

Towing Line $134

600 feet of Amsteel Rope. This is a very strong, lightweight rope that floats. This can be purchased on Amazon and will be one of the most expensive components of the winch.

Spool Axel $45

This will be used to construct the spool. It can be purchased at https://www.gokartsupply.com/axles.htm. Purchase it with the key stock.

Steel Tubing $70

Used to construct the frame this can be purchased at Home Depot or Lowe’s. You may be able to get a better rate though if there is a steel supplier in your town. If you plan on using the winch in salt water go with Aluminium. It will cost more but will last longer being that it’s more resilient to rusting. Construction of the frame will be one of the hardest parts in building the wake winch. A welder will be required. If you want to skip this park you can purchase a completed wake winch frame here.

Axel Hubs $20-45

Needed to construct the spool.

Torque Converter $67

Allows the engine to idle without pulling the cable and provides a smoother water start.

Handle $30

I think we all know what this is used for.

Fairlead $12

This helps guide the line back onto the spool and reduces friction.

Spool Walls $50

This will be the hardest part to make if you don’t have the tools. The disk should be 8-10 inches in diameter. A hole must be drilled in the center of both disks to run the axel through. If you want to skip this part you can purchase a completed spool Here.

6 Threaded Rode $15

You will need 6 1/2 in threaded rode, 8 inches in length. These will be needed for the construction of the spool.

1/2 Inch piping $15

1/2 inch galvanized piping will be used to construct the spool. You will need enough piping to cut into 6 pieces, 6 inches in length. This piping will go over the threaded rod to add strength to the spool and prevent wear and tear on the rope.

2 Pillow Blocks $16

These will be mounted on both sides of the frame holding the spool in place.

Tires $30

Tires to make moving the winch easier.

Nuts & Washers $30

12 Nylon Locking Nuts and 12 Washers will be needed to assemble the spool.

Steel Rod $12

Steel Rode to make axel for tires.

Splash Guard $47

Splash guard used to cover the spool and protect the engine from water.

The total cost to build a wake winch

$800

The total cost of a DIY wake winch is around $800 bucks give or take. The cost may very depending on what materials and add-ons you may want. Also the tools available.

Tools Used to Build A DIY Wake Winch

-Welder – https://amzn.to/3SkKWMw

-Weld Helmet – https://amzn.to/3BUYkzW

-Welding Gloves – https://amzn.to/3E25ZPl

-Steel Brush – https://amzn.to/3RhZ2g9

-Drill Press – https://amzn.to/3UQEE8P

-Miter Saw – https://amzn.to/3rdfdRk

Lock Tight – https://amzn.to/3SBsY82

-Angle Grinder – https://amzn.to/3y1yBVk

-Socket Set – https://amzn.to/3dP432d

-Wrenches – https://amzn.to/3SHSMzk

-Punch – https://amzn.to/3UOGln8

Wake Winch Frame

Frame Dimensions

Wake Winch Spool

How To Build A Wake Winch Video Guide

Check out the video below for instructions on building a wake winch.

Just Buy a Wake Winch Frame or Spool

The spool walls and frame will be the hardest part of this project. I do have these parts for sale if you want to skip this process. These components are not meant to be used with salt water. Please allow 2 weeks for the order to be fulfilled. Note the frame will have pre-drilled holes so all you have to do is bolt on the other components. If you have any questions please feel free to contact us.