There is still some heavy equipment out there that uses 24 volts to the starter only. It uses a series-parallel switch to do it.

It's a large solenoid looking item that switches your batteries (at least two) from parallel to series to give you 24 volts "just to the starter" when you hit the key switch. Everything else in the system is 12 volts, including the alternator.

This setup should work for your winch in theory. The only thing that would concern me is how long would it last. Starting an engine is a pretty short duration compared to winching. I don't know what kind of duty cycle those series-parallel switches have.


The switches are pretty pricey unless you find one in a bone yard. Wiring it really isn't that complicated. Find a schematic for somthing that uses it and substitute the winch for the starter in the drawing. Maybe Google "series parallel starting circuit" to find a schematic.

The only thing I can think of right now that I worked on that used this system is old Wagner mining equipment. LHD loaders.

As long as you keep the rest of your electrical system connected to one battery only, you're not going to hurt anything. The winch will be in it's own circuit just like a 24 volt starter would be.

This may be doable. Do a little research. If you understand DC electrical circuits you might make this work.

Good Luck! Let us know if you get it working.