Can the WinchRite operate larger winches?

Answer: Yes-Winches are sized to the intended load. So if you can crank the winch by hand then the WinchRite can too.

How long will the battery charge last in the WinchRite?

Answer: 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.

How long will it take to charge the WinchRite?

Answer: The WinchRite is tested at our facility to ensure proper charge. It should take about an hour to fully charge with the AC charger. A 150watt 12v DC Inverter is included as of 2023 for on board charging.  After charging always let the unit cool as this will prevent heat damage to the battery and circuitry. 

Can the WinchRite be left on the charger?

Answer: 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. The charger life span will be shortened.

Why will the WinchRite haul my main and my drill wont?

Answer: 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.

Will it float?

Answer: 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.

What is the difference between the WinchRite and A drill?

Answer: The WinchRite is designed to operate a winch, the drill is not!

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 slow speed. This 400rpm causes a load on the drill battery cranking amps depleting them at a rapid rate. Ripping the cranking amps from the battery results in a short battery capacity.  The resulting short capacity, in many cases will not complete a winching task. The overloading of the drill and battery results in a short life span of the battery itself. It has been reported that some drills have over heated to the point of fire hazards.

Problem Solved: 

The WinchRite turns at a variable speed up to 130rpm.  This lower speed produced by lower gearing ratios results in both greater torque and a much longer battery capacity. This allows the WinchRite to complete the winching tasks.

2-Drill Chuck Drive Failure:  

The common right angle drill is designed for drilling holes and has a threaded on chuck to insert various size drill bits. This threaded on chuck has a retaining screw which will snap when running in the reverse or counter clockwise rotation. This results in the chuck un-threading and could pose a potential safety risk, many of these chucks have been lost over board.  The reverse rotation function is needed for the lower cranking speed / greater torque of a two speed winch.

Problem Solved:   

The WinchRite has a 10mm square drive socket cog which will run in both rotations without failing. This allowing for 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 Resistance / Water Intrusion :   

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 when mounted in a winch. 

5-Warranty:  

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%.

Sailology, LLC | Warehouse Facility-Not Open To The Public:

Peoria, Arizona 85383 | Contact By Email Only: [email protected]