Can the WinchRite operate larger winches?

Answer: Yes-Winches are sized to the intended load. So if you can crank the winch by hand then the WinchRite can too.

 

How long will the battery charge last in the WinchRite?

Answer: Depends on the load it is used for. A typical 38ft boat with a standard rig will get the main hauled 6-8 times before a charge is needed. However the WinchRite is not a substitute for improper or poor rigging and this may effect performance.

 

How long will it take to charge the WinchRite?

Answer: The WinchRite is tested at our facility to ensure proper charge. It should take about an hour to fully charge with the AC charger. A 150watt 12v DC Inverter is available for on board charging.  After charging always let the unit cool as this will prevent heat damage to the battery and circuitry. 

Can the WinchRite be left on the charger?

Answer: Yes it can be. The internal electronics will shut off the charging process once it has achieved a full charge. However it is not good practice to leave any electronics on their charger for continuous periods because the charger may fail.

 

Why will the WinchRite haul my main and my drill wont?

Answer: Most drills run a much higher RPM and when under the load of a winch they bog down and the cranking amps deplete quickly from the battery. The WinchRite  runs at lower 130RPM with more torque allowing for greater hauling power.

 

Will it float?

Answer: The simple answer is yes-you would be able to retrieve it at the docks but out at sea it maybe hard to locate. However salt water may damage the unit. We recommend tethering it.

What is the diference between the WinchRite and A drill?

Answer:

Comparison of the most common converted right angle drill used for winches and the WinchRite. 

 

1-Battery:   The common right angle drill turns at 400rpm in the slow speed direction. Once a load is placed on the drill the cranking amps of the battery are immediately depleted, resulting in a short battery capacity.   This resulting short capacity, in many cases will not complete a winching job and require a battery switch.

Problem Solved:  The WinchRite turns at a variable speed up to 130rpm.  This lower speed results in both greater torque and a much longer battery capacity. This allows the WinchRite to complete all winching jobs with one charge.

 

2-Drive:   The common right angle drill is designed for drilling holes and has a chuck to insert various drill bits. This chuck has a retaining screw which has been reported to snap when run in the reverse or counter clockwise rotation. This results in the chuck unthreading and could pose a potential safety risk.  The lower cranking speed of the winch can not be used due to this issue.

Problem Solved:   The WinchRite has a socket drive which will run in both rotations allowing proper operation of a two speed winch.

 

3-Weight:   The common right angle drill weighs is 10.9 lbs or 4.95 kg. This generally requires both hands to operate.  This may result in a safety factor in the cockpit or walking about the deck.

Problem solved:   The WinchRite is slightly less than 6.5 lbs or 2.95 kg.  This is 40% lighter. 

 

4-Weather:   The common right angle drill is not designed for wet weather conditions.  Water will cause the drill to fail.   

Problem solved:   The WinchRite is rated at IPX6 and is a sealed unit designed for high pressure spray.  It can withstand water splash from rough sea conditions and rain. 

 

5-Warranty:   The manufacturers of the various hand held drills do not cover damage or failure while using the device for non-drilling applications.  Your warranty may be void if improper use is discovered.  

Problem solved:   The WinchRite is designed for sailing applications and we stand behind our product 100%.