Can Two Cables be Used with the Dutton-Lainson Split-Reel Worm Gear Winch # DL10972

Question:

Would I be able to connect 2 cables with two separate hooks to one winch one on each side of the spool or it is one cable that is fed through both sides? I would like to be able to mount a winch to the floor of my garage and hook to two corners of my trailer to pull it up and lower it down the driveway for hookup and un-hookup to my tow vehicle. There is an incline to the driveway though not substantial. We are able to push the trailer up and down between 1 to 2 adults without too much trouble but would like to make it easier and safer.

asked by: Jeffrey A

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Dutton-Lainson Split-Reel Worm Gear Winch, # DL10972, was designed to use one cable through both sides of the drum. The problem that you will run into when trying to feed two cables through the drum is that the side of the drum furthest away from the gear does not have a way to secure the cable. I have attached a photo showing how a cable is fed through this drum.

For your situation, I recommend running straps from both corners of your trailer and hook them to a single hook from the cable of a single drum worm gear winch like part # DL11001. This winch also comes with a hex drive handle that would allow you to use a power drill for faster raising and lowering. Worm gear winches provide the most control when raising or lowering a load, but their gear ratios can be quite high. For a cable, you could use part # DL24045.

expert reply by: John H