Hand Winch Recommendation to Hoist a Kayak Up to Garage Ceiling

Updated 10/23/2013 | Published 10/20/2013

Products Featured in This Question

Dutton-Lainson Hand Winch - TUFFPLATE Finish - Single Speed - 600 lbs

(417)

$38.73

Dutton-Lainson Hand Winch - Worm Gear - Loop Drive - Ceiling Mount - 1,500 lbs

(12)

$83.39

Hand Winch Cable with Safety Hook 1/4" Diameter x 50' Long - 3,500 lbs

(31)

$69.91

Question:

Is there a reason a hand winch like DL14125 should not be used for lifting? Id like to mount it on a wall to lift a 90 lb. kayak up to the garage ceiling 11foot high for storage.

asked by: Marty K

Expert Reply:

Dutton Lainson hand winch # DL14125 could be used for hoisting up a kayak but because this winch does not have a brake to lower the load you would have to go into freewheel mode and the load will fall.

There are different types of winches that are much better for this application. I recommend a worm gear winch, # DL10954, that you can mount on the ceiling and use an extension pole to turn the loop drive handle. Place this winch centered above where you would lift the kayak so you will not have to use pulley blocks to get a straight line pull. Worm gear winches will brake automatically if you release the handle.

You will also need a secondary support system to actually hold up the kayak because winches are not meant to hold a load indefinitely. Once hoisted into place you can use something simple like chains to hold the kayak up in its stored location.

Additionally do not hoist of move people with the winch or where people could get hurt from a falling load. You can use the above winch with a cable, # DL24104. I have included a link to a video review of the winch for you.

expert reply by: Michael H