Abstract: The present invention provides a powered winch retrieval system for harvested big game that can be configured either as a small trailer attachable to a vehicle via a hitch, or as a cantilevered unit couplable to a standard vehicle receiver hitch. The winch incorporates a frame that supports an internal combustion engine having a centrifugal clutch or constant velocity transmission (CVT) mounted thereon, a jack shaft chain driven by the centrifugal clutch or CVT for speed reduction and torque amplification, an output shaft on which is mounted a cable take-up spool, a norm ally-on disc brake assembly mounted on the final output shaft, a combination brake release and throttle lever, and an optional oscillating level-wind assembly. The level-wind assembly, which incorporates a linear ball-bearing bushing, ensures that the cable used to retrieve harvested game winds evenly on the take-up spool.

Abstract: The present invention provides a powered winch retrieval system for harvested big game that can be configured either as a small trailer attachable to a vehicle via a hitch, or as a cantilevered unit couplable to a standard vehicle receiver hitch. The winch incorporates a frame that supports an internal combustion engine having a centrifugal clutch or constant velocity transmission (CVT) mounted thereon, a jack shaft chain driven by the centrifugal clutch or CVT for speed reduction and torque amplification, an output shaft on which is mounted a cable take-up spool, a norm ally-on disc brake assembly mounted on the final output shaft, a combination brake release and throttle lever, and an optional oscillating level-wind assembly. The level-wind assembly, which incorporates a linear ball-bearing bushing, ensures that the cable used to retrieve harvested game winds evenly on the take-up spool.