What is the Best Winch To Use for Hoisting

Published 07/07/2014

Products Featured in This Question

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

(427)

$35.32

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

(16)

$87.47

Question:

Hi, I m looking to adapt a trailer winch to a hoist for my center board so i would like the smallest winch size with a controlled payout. I also will be mounting this winch in a place where i will not be able to make full revolutions with the crank handle so I need a ratchet mechanism. The board only weights 150# but there is some mechanical disadvantage. what can work for me?

asked by: Daniel P

Expert Reply:

Ideally, for hoisting, you would use a worm gear winch such as # DL10954 which you would mount on a ceiling and use a locally obtained rod and hook to turn the handle. A Heavy duty variable speed drill 1/2" shaft, using 5/8" socket, may speed up operation.

A ratcheting winch will ratchet up and work well when there is limited space, but it will only ratchet in. When release it will just drop the load.

A worm gear winch is the best option since it automatically will brake when the handle is released and allows for very controlled movement of a load. Loads should not be suspended from the winch so once the load is in place you would use chains or rope to hold the load in place.

If you cannot mount a winch on the ceiling then you would instead need to use some pulleys. There must be a straight line pull of at least 12 inches in front of the winch. Then it could angle as needed at a pulley # SW7750A, and to subsequent pulleys as needed.

expert reply by: Michael H