Introduction

Champion Power Equipment and Champion Engine Technology designs, builds, and supports all of our products to strict specifications and guidelines. With proper product knowledge, safe use, and regular maintenance, this product should bring years of satisfying service.
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information in this manual, and we reserve the right to change, alter and/or improve the product and this document at any time without prior notice. 
Since CPE/CET highly value how our products are designed, manufactured, operated and are serviced, and also highly value your safety and the safety of others, we would like you to take the time to review this product manual and other product materials thoroughly and be fully aware and knowledgeable 
of the assembly, operation, dangers and maintenance of the product before use. Fully familiarize yourself, and make sure others who plan on operating the product fully familiarize themselves too, with the proper safety and operation procedures before each use. Please always exercise common sense and always error on the side of caution when operating the product to ensure no accidents, property damage, or injury occurs. We want you to continue to use and be satisfied with your CPE/CET product for years to come.

Priced at approximately $199.99, it is an essential addition for ATV and UTV enthusiasts.

Performance Specifications

• Rated Pull . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2000 lb. (907 kg.)
• Gear Reduction Ratio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153:1
• Motor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Permanent Magnet 1.0 HP/0.8 kW (12V DC)
• Drum Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.2 in. (D) x 2.9 in. (L) [31.5 mm (D) x 73 mm (L)]
• Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5/32 in. (D) x 49 ft. (L) [4 mm (D) x 15 m (L)]
• Gross Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18.8 lb. (8.5 kg)
• Net Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16.5 lb. (7.5 kg)
• Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.3 in. (10.8 cm)
• Width . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.9 in. (10 cm)
• Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11.4 in. (29 cm)
• Bolt Pattern. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.1 in. (8.0 cm)

1. If the motor becomes uncomfortably hot to the touch, stop winching immediately and let it cool down for 5 minutes. 
   Do not pull for more than one minute at or near the rated load.
2. Electric winches are designed and made for intermittent use and should not be used in constant duty applications.

Parts Diagram

CONTROLS AND FEATURES

Read this owner’s manual before operating your winch. Familiarize yourself with the location and function of the controls and features. Save this manual for future reference.

Winch

1. Remote Control – Rocker switch with handlebar mount for powering the rope in or out of your winch drum.
2. Motor – 1.0 HP 12V DC motor provides power to the planetary gear mechanism.
3. Planetary Gear System – The reduction gears convert the winch motor power into extreme pulling forces. This system allows high torque while maintaining compact size and light weight.
4. Braking System – Braking action is automatically applied to the winch drum when the winch motor is stopped and there is a load on the wire rope.
5. Winch Drum – The winch drum is the cylinder on which the wire rope is stored. It can feed or wind the rope depending on the remote winch switch.
6. Free spooling Clutch – The clutch allows the operator to manually disengage “Out” the spooling drum from the gear train, free spool. Engaging the clutch “In” locks the winch into the gear system.
7. Roller Fairlead – When using the winch at an angle the roller fairlead acts to guide the wire rope onto the drum and minimizes damage to the wire rope from abrasion on the winch mount or bumper.
8. Wire Rope – 5/32 in. x 49 ft. galvanized aircraft cable designed specifically for load capacity of 2000 lb.(907 kg.).
9. Clevis Hook – Provides a means for connecting the looped ends of cables to an anchor.
10. Strap – Used to assist cable feed.
11. Mount Assembly – Flatbed mounting channel.

Description

The Champion Power Equipment UTV Winch Kit 12003 is built with a sturdy steel cable that resists wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting performance. The kit includes a handheld remote control and a wired handlebar switch for convenient operation from different locations. The winch is powered by a 1.2 HP motor that provides consistent pulling power.

The winch mount is designed for easy installation on most UTVs, and the kit comes with all necessary hardware and instructions. This winch is also equipped with an automatic brake system to ensure safe and controlled operation.

OPERATION

General Tips for Safe Operation

• Your 12003 winch is rated at a 2000 lb. capacity in first layer (max) when spooling the first rope layer on the drum. Overloads can damage the winch, motor and/or wire rope. For loads over 1,000 lb. (454 kg.) we recommend the use of the pulley block/snatch block to double the wire rope line. 
  This will aid in two ways:
  1. reduce the number or rope layers on the drum, as well as,
  2. reduce the load on the wire rope by as much as 50%.
• When doubling the line back to the vehicle, attach to the tow hook, frame or other load bearing part. The vehicle engine should be kept running during operation of the winch to minimize battery drain and maximize power and speed of the winch. If the winch is used for a considerable time with the engine off the battery may be drained and too weak to restart the engine.
• Get to know your winch before you actually need to use it. We recommend that you set up a few test runs to familiarize yourself with rigging techniques, the sounds your winch makes under various loads, the way the cable spools on the drum, etc. Inspect the wire rope and equipment before each use.
• A frayed or damaged rope shall be replaced immediately. Use only manufacturer’s identical replacement rope with the exact specifications. Inspect the winch installation and bolts to ensure that all bolts are tight before each operation. Store the remote control inside your vehicle in a place that it will not be damaged.
• Any winch that appears to be damaged in any way, is found to be worn, or operates abnormally MUST BE REMOVED FROM SERVICE UNTIL REPAIRED. It is recommended that the necessary repairs 
  be made by a manufacturer’s authorized repair facility.
• Pull only on areas of the vehicle as specified by the vehicle manufacturer. Only attachments and/or adapters supplied by the manufacturer are to be used.

Self Recovery

• Locate a suitable anchor such as a strong tree trunk or boulder. Always use a sling as an anchor point.
• A roller fairlead (not included) will help guide the wire rope and to reduce binding on short side pulls. Do not winch from an acute angle as the wire rope will pile up on one side of the drum causing damage to wire rope and the winch.
• Short pulls from an angle can be used to straighten the vehicle. Long pulls should be done with the wire rope at a 90° angle to the winch/vehicle.
  When pulling a heavy load, place a blanket or jacket over the wire rope five or six feet from the hook.
• In the event of a broken cable it will dampen the snap back. For additional protection open the hood of the vehicle. For pulls over 1,000 lb. (454 kg.), we recommend the use of the snatch block/pulley block to double line the wire rope.

• This reduces the load on the winch and the strain on the rope by approximately 50%.

  

ASSEMBLY

Assembling the Winch
This CPE 2000 lb. (907 kg.) winch is designed with a bolt pattern that is standard in this class of winch. Many winch mounting kits are available that utilize this bolt pattern for the most popular UTVs and ATVs. If you cannot find a kit locally, contact CPE and we will provide you with the name of a dealer.

CAUTION: Mounting bolts must be SAE grade 5 or better and torque to 34 ft. lbs.

1. Insert M8x20 bolts through the mounting channel holes and attach the roller fairlead to the mounting channel with the M8 lock washers and M8 nuts provided.

   

2. Turn the winch upside down. Place the mounting channel on the winch, making sure the winch is centered in the middle of it.
3. Thread the M8x35 bolts through the M8 flat and lockers washers, and then thread through the mounting channel. Tighten the bolts. DO NOT over tighten.
4. Turn winch right side up. Disengage the clutch by moving the Cam Ring to the “Out” position. Release the wire rope and pull through the roller fairlead.
5. Attach the clevis hook to the cable, and then hand strap to the clevis hook.

CAUTION
If utilizing a mounting plate, ensure that the three major sections (motor, drum and gear housing) are properly aligned. Proper alignment of the winch will allow for even distribution of the full rated load.

NOTE
The type of vehicle to which the winch and mounting channel will be applied, will dictate the type of mounting kit that should be used (Speed Mount™ Hitch Adapter, Standard Mounting Channel, or Specialty Mounting Kit).

Mounting the Remote control

1. The remote control is usually installed on the left handlebar.
2. Use a piece of electrical tape around the handlebar to help prevent rotation of the mount on the handlebar. Do NOT tighten over any hoses or cables.
3. Once the remote control is mounted you can route the wires back to the battery and winch.
4. Make sure the handlebars have full range of motion and then secure the remote control’s cable.

Winch Wiring

CAUTION: Never route electrical cables across any sharp edges, through or near moving parts, or near parts that become hot.

1. Mount the winch to your vehicle.
2. FOR WINCH TO FULLY FUNCTION CONNECT ALL LEADS CORRECTLY.
3. Connect the battery leads: Connect the red (+) lead to the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle’s 12 volt battery. Connect the black (–) lead to the negative (–) terminal of the vehicle’s 12 volt battery. (see wiring diagram)
4. Connect the winch leads: Connect red (+) lead of the winch connection cables to the positive (+) terminal of the winch motor. Connect the black (–) lead of the winch connection cables to the negative (–) terminal of the winch motor. (see wiring diagram)
5. Check for proper drum rotation. Pull and turn the clutch knob to the “out” position (Free spooling). Pull out some cable from the drum, and then turn the clutch knob to the “In” position to engage the gears. Press the cable out button on the handlebar switch. If the drum is turning and releasing more cable then your connections are accurate. If the drum is turning and collecting more cable then reverse the leads on the motor. Repeat and check rotation.

CAUTION: Battery cables should not be drawn taut. Leave some slack for cable movement.

With some applications the motor leads may need to be rotated to avoid interference with other components.

Winching Techniques A-Z

1. Take time to assess your situation and plan your pull.
2. Put on gloves to protect your hands.
3. Disengage the clutch to allow free-spooling and also save battery power.
4. Attach the hook strap to the clevis hook.
5. Pull out the wire rope to your desired anchor point using the hook strap.
6. Secure the clevis hook to the anchor point: Sling, chain or snatch block. Do not attach the hook back onto the wire rope.
7. Engage the clutch.
8. Connect the remote control to the winch. If you are going to control the winch from inside your vehicle then pass the remote through an open window to avoid the wires being pinched in the door.
9. Start your engine to ensure power is being replenished to the battery.
10. Power in the wire rope guiding the wire under tension to draw up the slack in the wire. Once the wire is under tension, stand clear. Never step over the wire rope.
11. Double check your anchors and make sure all connections are secure.
12. Inspect the wire rope. Make sure there are at least 5 wraps of wire rope around the winch drum.
13. Drape a blanket or jacket over the wire rope approximately 5 to 6 feet from the hook. Open the hood for added protection.
14. Clear the area. Make sure all spectators stand clear and that no one is directly in front or behind the vehicle or anchor point.
15. Begin winching. Be sure that the wire rope is winding evenly and tightly around the drum. The vehicle that is being winched can be slowly driven to add assistance to the winching process. Avoid shock loads; keep the wire rope under tension.
16. The vehicle to be winched should be placed in neutral and the emergency brake released. Only release the brake pedal when under full tension. Avoid shock loads to the winch. This can damage the winch, rope and vehicle.
17. The winch is meant for intermittent use. Under full load with a single line rig do not power in for more than a minute without letting the motor cool down for a few minutes and then resume the winching operation.
18. The winching operation is complete once the vehicle is on stable ground and is able to drive under its own power.
19. Secure the vehicle. Be sure to set the brakes and place the vehicle in park.
20. Release the tension on the wire rope. The winch is not meant to hold the vehicle for long periods of time.
21. Disconnect the wire rope from the anchor.
22. Rewind the wire rope. Make sure that any wire already on the drum has spooled tightly and neatly. If not, draw out the wire and re-spool from the point where the rope is tight.
23. Keep your hands clear of the winch drum and fairlead as the wire rope is being drawn in.
24. Secure the hook and hook strap.
25. Disconnect the remote control and store in a clean, dry place.
26. Clean and inspect connections and mounting hardware for next winching operation.

Setup Guide

To set up the Champion Power Equipment UTV Winch Kit 12003, 

• Start by mounting the winch to your UTV using the provided mounting hardware. 
• Ensure all bolts and screws are securely tightened. 
• Next, connect the winch to your vehicle's battery using the appropriate wiring harness.
• Test the winch by operating it with the handheld remote control or wired handlebar switch. 
• Make sure to follow all safety precautions and guidelines provided in the user manual.

Champion Power Equipment UTV Winch Kit 12003 Maintenance

The owner/operator is responsible for all periodic maintenance.

WARNING 

Never operate a damaged or defective winch.

WARNING 

Improper maintenance will void your warranty.

Complete all scheduled maintenance in a timely manner. Correct any issue before operating the winch.

Lubrication 
All moving parts within the Electric Winch having been Lubricated using high temperature lithium grease at the factory. No internal lubrication is required. Lubricate Cable Assembly periodically using a light penetrating oil.

Cable Assembly Replacement
It is recommended that any modifications be performed by a manufacturer’s authorized repair facility, and that only manufacturer-supplied parts be used.

1. Move the clutch to the “Out” position.
2. Extend Cable Assembly to its full length. Note how the existing cable is connected to the inside of the drum.
3. Remove old Cable Assembly and attach new one.
4. Retract Cable Assembly onto drum being careful not to allow kinking.

Winch Diagram

Troubleshooting

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Robust and reliable performance with 3,000-pound pulling capacity
• Ease of installation with included mounting hardware
• Convenient operation via handheld remote control and wired handlebar switch
• Durable steel cable and automatic brake system for safe operation
• Competitive pricing compared to similar products on the market

Cons

• Requires a 12V DC battery which is not included in the kit
• May require additional wiring and electrical work for some UTV models
• Some users have reported issues with the remote control range and reliability
• The winch can be heavy and may affect UTV balance if not mounted correctly

Customer Reviews

Customers have generally praised the Champion Power Equipment UTV Winch Kit 12003 for its reliability and power. Many users appreciate the ease of installation and the convenience of having both a remote control and wired switch. However, some users have noted issues with the remote control's range and occasional electrical connectivity problems.

Common complaints 

Include the need for a separate battery purchase and some minor installation challenges, but overall, the product is well-regarded for its value and performance.

Repair/Replacement Warranty

CPE warrants to the original purchaser that the mechanical and electrical components will be free of defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the original date of purchase (90 days for commercial & industrial use).
Transportation charges on product submitted for repair or replacement under this warranty are the sole responsibility of the purchaser. This warranty only applies to the original purchaser and is not transferable.