What Determines a Hand Winch Minimum Operating Weight and Can it Be Modified/Lowered

Question:

Hello: I got a DL15761 winch from you in July, 2019. It works fine but I was wondering if there was a way to reduce the minimum weight required 175 lbs. to lower a load. Do certain parts of the winch brake pad, pressure washer, or both together determine this weight amount? It appears from the photos that the DL14964 75 lb. required weight has the same frame and shaft size as the DL15761. If so, could I swap in a brake pad and/or pressure washer from this model to achieve a 75 lb. activation weight? Thank you.

asked by: Jim G

Expert Reply:

I reached out to my contact at Dutton-Lainson and confirmed there is not a way to reduce the minimum operating weight required. Both the # DL15761 and the # DL14964 use the same brake pad and washer.

However, # DL15761 (2,500 lbs) is physically bigger/heavier than # DL14964 (1,500 lbs) and uses two drive shafts instead of just one like the smaller winch. That is a big part of why it has the heavier weight requirement and heavier weight capacity.

An even better solution for you than either of these two winches could be found with the Fulton High-Performance Brake # F143201. This winch is rated for 2,500 lbs, just like # DL15761, but no minimum load is required for either activation or payout. It uses a cable with a max diameter of 5/16 inches, like part # DL24102 (same size as DL15761).

Check out the review video I have attached at the bottom of the page for you.