Recommended Winch to Move Floating Platform

Question:

I need something to move a floating platform back and forth between two fixed points ~35 feet apart. My plan was to use two 1/8inch steel cables and a winch like this so that it could reel one side in while letting the other out. We currently use two ropes that we manually adjust and tie off. I assume that this winch would work, but is there a better product for my application? Perhaps something with a lower gear ratio?

asked by: Bill

Expert Reply:

The Dutton-Lainson Worm Gear Hand Winch with Split Reel for 2 Cables # DL10972 has a gear ratio of 40:1 which is standard for this type of winch but can be more difficult to reel depending on the load. This winch will certainly work for your application but I also recommend checking out the Fulton High-Performance 2-Speed Trailer Winch # F142421.

The Fulton has two gear ratios available, 5.1:1 and 12.2:1, and is also made for marine applications such as yours. It has a freewheeling position as well to let cable out and you can use cable # FWC7500100 which is 50 feet long with a safe working load limit of 1,865 lbs. I've added links to video reviews of these winches for you to take a look at as well.

expert reply by: Kyle S