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FAQ

Commonly asked questions about our products

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%.

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