Q: Can the WinchRite operate larger winches?
A: Yes-Winches are sized to the intended load. So if you can crank the winch by hand then the WinchRite can too.
Q: How long will the battery charge last in the WinchRite?
A: 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.
Q: How long will it take to charge the WinchRite?
A: The WinchRite is tested at our facility to ensure proper charge. It should take about an hour to fully charge with the AC charger. The DC charger is intended for a trickle charge and the time frame for complete charging would be extended. After charging always let the unit cool as this will prevent heat damage to the battery and circuitry.
Q: Can the WinchRite be left on the charger?
A: 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.
Q: Why will the WinchRite haul my main and my drill wont?
A: 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.
Q: Will it float?
A: 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.
Q: What is the diference between the WinchRite and A drill?
A: 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%.