Solution for Replacement Winch for Old Starcraft Lift System

Updated 04/14/2024 | Published 04/13/2024

Question:

I have an older StarCraft pop-up with a Shelby 5438 winch and a proprietary StarCraft lift system. This system uses four cables, one to each lift post. Im having issues lowering smoothly and am considering replacing it. I was directed to the Superwinch LT3000 ATV winch, which has an automatic brake. However, Im not seeing how to mount all four cables on the winch without drilling additional holes in the drum thereby weakening the drum and voiding warrantees. Ive attached two images from the installation manual of this lift system. Any suggestions?

asked by: Christina

Old Starcraft Lift System
(click to enlarge)

Expert Reply:

It looks like you have one of the 1983-2000 models. There are no replacements for the winch from that setup so the only solution would be to modify a winch like the # SW1130220 to make it work. I'm not sure how long those cables are but based on the pictures I don't know if the Superwinch LT3000 would be able to accommodate them. I also can't say how modifying it would impact the capacity to know if it could handle the roof. As you pointed out, this would void the warranty on this or any other winch.

I wasn't able to find any information on what other Starcraft owners have done to replace this so I would say your best solution would be to find someone who can repair the existing winch. You may also want to give Starcraft a call and see if they have any ideas. They were purchased by Jayco quite a while ago but they may have a better solution to fix or replace the winch/lift system.

expert reply by: Robin H