Can Crank of Dutton-Lainson # DL14125 Hand Winch Be Operated With a Drill or Impact Driver

Published 02/28/2015

Products Featured in This Question

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

(427)

$35.32

Dutton-Lainson Hand Winch - Worm Gear - Hex Drive - 2,000 lbs

(288)

$148.77

Hand Winch Strap with Safety Hook, 2" Wide x 20' Long - 4,000 lbs.

(117)

$26.10

Question:

Where I would mount this the handle would never clear and the surface cannot be built up higher. I would like to operate the winch with an electric drill I have a high-power commercial Makita or maybe a Black and Decker electric screwdriver or impact wrench. Would like to know if shaft is hex-shaped though I think this is unlikely since it appears to accept a nut or is basically round for convenient gripping by an electric drill chuck I believe 1/2inch in this case but it might be a 3/4. It does look like the handle fits by hex before the nut goes on. This is for mounting on windowsill to raise groceries upstairs for elderly person. Loads do not exceed 60 lbs. or so. Is there a better product for this? However, the main attraction of this winch for us is the reasonable price and to an extent not make or break its ability to use a strap vs. a cable lift length is 14. Thank you.

asked by: Leon M

Expert Reply:

Dutton-Lainson doesn't recommend using a drill or driver to operate a standard winch such as the # DL14125. However, they do offer a worm gear winch, part # DL11004 that can be operated using a drill with a 5/8 inch socket. Because it's a worm gear winch, there's no need to worry about the winch spooling out or freewheeling if you lose your grip on the drill, which is a highly important safety feature. If you stop turning the shaft, the reel will stop in place. This winch is compatible with a 20 foot strap, which is sold separately as part # DL24242.

I realize the recommended winch costss more than you wanted to spend, but this is the only type of winch we offer that could safely be operated using a drill like you described.

expert reply by: Mike L